Tbiykeli: The Living Treasure Hidden in the Kintrishi Mountains

Imagine a journey that is not only a physical but also a spiritual challenge; a path that leads you to a place where time seems to stand still and you can feel the true power of nature untouched by civilization. This is Tbiykeli – a glacial lake located in the heart of Kintrishi National Park, at an altitude of almost 2000 meters above sea level. This is not just a beautiful landscape; it is a unique ecosystem, the kingdom of the mythical Caucasian newt, and a reward for hikers who undertake the two-day, difficult, but unforgettable trail to see it.

The journey to Tbiykeli is an adventure in itself. It passes through the subtropical relict zone of the Colchic forest, where centuries-old trees, moss-covered boulders, and waterfalls create a fairytale environment. As you ascend, the landscape changes and transitions into subalpine meadows, offering panoramic views of the Caucasus. The lake itself, nestled on the slope of the Meskheti Range, is covered with snow and ice for 7-8 months of the year, while in summer, its clear water reflects the sky and clouds. Its main treasure is the Caucasian newt – a unique amphibian listed in Georgia’s “Red List,” which inhabits this very lake. Tbiykeli is not just a geographical point on a map; it is a symbol of wild, pristine nature, and seeing and feeling it is a special privilege.

Key Characteristics

Name and Location

• Official Name: Tbiykeli.
• Other Name: Zghvisnakveti (Sea-cut).
• Location: Georgia, Autonomous Republic of Adjara, Kobuleti Municipality.
• Nearby Landmark: Kintrishi Protected Areas.
• Coordinates: Approximately 41.76° North Latitude, 42.23° East Longitude.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Surface area approximately 0.01 square kilometers (1 hectare).
• Depth: Maximum depth 10-12 meters.
• Elevation Above Sea Level: 1900-2000 meters.
• Shape: Oval.
• Water Type: Freshwater.
• Color and Clarity: High transparency, greenish-blue.

Hydrology

• Inflow/Outflow: Fed by snowmelt, rain, and groundwater.
• Seasonal Changes: Frozen for 7-8 months of the year. The water level is high in spring during the snowmelt.

Surrounding Environment

• Landscape: High-mountain, subalpine zone, surrounded by meadows and rhododendron bushes.
• Flora and Fauna: The lake’s main inhabitant is the Caucasian newt. The surrounding forests are home to brown bears, roe deer, and chamois.
• Climate: High-mountain, harsh. Summers are short and cool, winters are long and snowy.

Human Interaction

• Recreational Uses: Hiking, nature observation, camping.
• Tourism: One of the most popular, yet challenging, hiking routes in Adjara. The trail takes 2-3 days to complete.
• Environmental Status: Located within the Kintrishi Protected Areas, which ensures its protection. Swimming and fishing in the lake are prohibited to protect the ecosystem.

Visual & Experiential Details

• Scenery: Breathtaking panoramic views of the Meskheti Range, a sea of clouds, a star-studded sky at night.
• Atmosphere: Complete tranquility, a sense of merging with wild nature, disconnection from civilization.