The Gujaretistsqali River

The Gujaretistsqali River: The Waterway of Borjomi Gorge

The Gujaretistsqali River (მდინარე გუჯარეთისწყალი) is a significant river in the Borjomi Municipality of Samtskhe-Javakheti region, Georgia. It is the main right tributary of the Mtkvari River within the famous Borjomi Gorge. Originating on the slopes of the Trialeti and Meskheti Ranges, the river carves a deep and incredibly scenic valley that runs parallel to the main Mtkvari gorge for some distance. The Gujaretistsqali valley is a place of pristine nature, part of the wider Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, and is known for its dense forests, historic villages, and cultural monuments.

The river is a powerful mountain waterway, fed by numerous tributaries including the Bakurianistskali, which flows from the Bakuriani resort. Its valley has historically been an important area, home to the historic province of Tori. The river flows past significant cultural sites like the Timotesubani Monastery, one of the most important examples of medieval Georgian architecture. For visitors to the Borjomi area, the Gujaretistsqali valley offers a more remote and wild alternative to the main resort area, perfect for hiking, history exploration, and experiencing untouched nature.

ℹ️ General Information

• Name of River: Gujaretistsqali River (მდინარე გუჯარეთისწყალი)
• Location: Borjomi Municipality, Samtskhe-Javakheti, Georgia.
• Length: 43 km (27 miles)
• Basin Size: 326 km² (126 sq mi)
• Source (Origin): Confluence of several streams from the Trialeti and Meskheti Ranges.
• Mouth (Where it flows): Right tributary of the Mtkvari River.
• Main Tributaries: Bakurianistskali, Tsinubnistsqali.

📍 Geography & Course

The Gujaretistsqali is a fast-flowing mountain river. It carves a deep, V-shaped gorge through the volcanic rocks of the region. The valley is narrow and winding, with steep, forest-covered slopes. The riverbed is rocky and its water is cold and clear year-round. It is a major contributor to the Mtkvari River, significantly increasing its volume at their confluence near the village of Khertvisi.

🌿 Nature & Ecology

The river flows almost entirely through the protected forests of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park. The ecosystem is one of the best-preserved in the Lesser Caucasus, with vast forests of fir, spruce, pine, and beech. This pristine habitat is a sanctuary for a wide range of fauna, including red deer, brown bears, wolves, and lynx. The river is renowned for its healthy population of brown trout, making it a prime location for fly fishing.

🏛️ History & Culture

The Gujaretistsqali valley lies in the heart of the historical Tori province.

• Timotesubani Monastery: The main historical landmark is the 12th-13th century Monastery of the Dormition, commonly known as Timotesubani. This cross-domed church is famous for its unique brick construction and extensive, well-preserved frescoes, which are masterpieces of medieval Georgian art.
• Ancient Fortresses: The valley contains the ruins of several medieval fortresses that once guarded this strategic route.

🚣 Activities & Tourism

• Hiking & Trekking: The valley is a core part of the trail network of the Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park, offering numerous routes of varying difficulty.
• Cultural Tourism: Visiting the Timotesubani Monastery is a highlight for anyone interested in Georgian history and religious art.
• Fishing: The river is a popular destination for catch-and-release trout fishing.
• 4×4 Tours: The road through the valley is mostly unpaved and provides a scenic route for off-road exploration.

🛤️ Accessibility

The Gujaretistsqali valley is accessible via a road that branches off from the main highway at Tsagveri, near Borjomi. The road to Timotesubani is generally accessible, but a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for exploring further up the valley, especially after rain. The area is best visited from late spring to autumn.