Qeli Lake: Georgia’s High-Mountain Pearl
Qeli Lake, situated in one of Georgia’s highest and most inaccessible regions, the Qeli Volcanic Highland, is one of the country’s most impressive natural landmarks. Located at an altitude of approximately 2,914 meters above sea level, this deep lake of volcanic-glacial origin is distinguished by its crystal-clear, cold water and dramatic landscape. Due to the region’s harsh climate, the lake is covered with a thick layer of ice for most of the year, about 8-9 months, making it a unique spectacle. Qeli Lake is fed by snowmelt and underground waters and is the source of the Ksani River. Ecologically, the lake and its surroundings are part of the alpine zone, where vegetation is sparse, but the fauna includes species characteristic of high-mountain regions. The lake’s isolated location and difficult access make it an attractive destination for extreme tourism and adventure enthusiasts. Although the fish population in the lake is scarce, its natural beauty and pristine environment establish it as one of Georgia’s most significant natural monuments, deserving special protection and attention.
Identification and Location
- Name: Qeli Lake.
- Location:
- Country: Georgia
- Region: Mtskheta-Mtianeti / Shida Kartli (located in a disputed territory)
- Municipality: Akhalgori
- Nearest Major Landmark/Area: Located on the Qeli Volcanic Highland, south of the main Caucasus Range.
- Coordinates: Approximately 42°28′ N, 44°15′ E.
- Connections: Fed by snow, glaciers, and underground waters. The Ksani River flows out of the lake.
Physical Characteristics
- Surface Area: Approximately 1.28 square kilometers.
- Maximum Depth: Significant, around 63 meters.
- Average Depth: Approximately 25 meters.
- Volume: Estimated at about 32 million cubic meters.
- Altitude: Very high, approximately 2914 meters above sea level.
- Shoreline Length: Approximately 5.5 kilometers.
- Water Source(s): Snowmelt, underground waters, small glaciers.
- Outflow(s): Ksani River.
- Water Type: Freshwater, oligotrophic (nutrient-poor).
- Basin Geology: Volcanic-glacial origin, a basin formed in lava flows.
Ecological Information
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- Flora: The area around the lake features alpine and subalpine meadows, with sparse vegetation due to harsh climatic conditions. Aquatic vegetation is almost non-existent.
- Fauna: Fish are practically absent in the lake due to low temperatures and a lack of food sources. The surrounding area is inhabited by Caucasian tur, chamois, and other high-mountain species.
- Trophic Level: Oligotrophic (very low nutrient content).
- Water Clarity: Very high.
* Water Temperature: Very low for most of the year. In summer, the surface temperature reaches a maximum of 10-12°C.
- pH Level: Likely neutral.
- Unique Ecological Features: One of the highest and deepest lakes in Georgia; frozen for 8-9 months of the year; represents a pristine alpine ecosystem.
- Conservation Status: Not part of the protected areas system, but its uniqueness necessitates protection. Located in a politically sensitive zone.
Human Interaction and Significance
- Historical Significance: Due to its inaccessibility, there are no known significant historical events associated with the lake. It has always been a natural wonder for the local population.
- Current Use: Limited tourism (extreme hiking, mountaineering) for experienced travelers. A potential object for scientific research (geology, glaciology, limnology).
- Environmental Issues: The main challenge is preserving its pristine nature and the potential impact of climate change on glaciers and the water regime.
- Management and Conservation Efforts: Currently, due to the political situation in the region, active management and conservation efforts are limited.
- Local Communities: The lake is far from permanent settlements.
Interesting or Unique Facts
- It is one of the highest lakes in Georgia.
- It is covered with ice for 8-9 months of the year.
- The Ksani River originates from it.
- It is characterized by crystal-clear and very cold water.
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