The Jejora River

The Jejora River: The Heart of Mountain Racha

The Jejora River (მდინარე ჯეჯორა) is a significant mountain river in the Oni Municipality of the Racha-Lechkhumi and Kvemo Svaneti region. It originates on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus and flows west through a spectacular, deep valley before joining the Rioni River as a left tributary in the town of Oni. The Jejora valley is the main geographical feature of Upper Racha, a region known for its dramatic landscapes, mineral water springs, and the famous, now largely destroyed, balneological resort of Shovi.

ℹ️ General Information

• Name of River: Jejora River (მდინარე ჯეჯორა)
• Location: Oni Municipality, Racha, Georgia
• Length: 45 km
• Basin Size: 438 km²
• Source (Origin): Greater Caucasus
• Mouth (Where it flows): Left tributary of the Rioni River

📍 Geography & Course

The Jejora is a fast-flowing, powerful mountain river. Its upper valley is narrow and forested, widening as it approaches Oni. The river is fed by numerous tributaries, snowmelt, and underground springs, giving it a high volume of water year-round.

🌿 Nature & Ecology

The valley is rich in biodiversity. The slopes are covered with dense pine and mixed coniferous-deciduous forests. The region is known for its clean air and pristine nature, providing habitat for brown bears, wolves, and chamois. The river is rich in trout.

🏛️ History & Culture

The Jejora valley is the heartland of the Rachan people.

• Oni: The main town of the region, located at the confluence of the Jejora and Rioni, has a rich history and a beautiful synagogue.
• Shovi Resort: Located in the upper valley, Shovi was once a premier mountain resort famous for its mineral waters. It was tragically destroyed by a landslide in 2023.
• Utsera: Another resort village known for its mineral waters and beautiful nature.

🚣 Activities & Tourism

• Hiking & Trekking: The valley and surrounding mountains are a paradise for hikers, with trails leading to glaciers and high passes.
• Fishing: The Jejora is an excellent river for trout fishing.
• Rafting & Kayaking: The river’s fast current makes it suitable for whitewater sports.

🛤️ Accessibility

The main road to Oni from Kutaisi follows the Rioni valley, and a good road continues up the Jejora valley towards the former resort of Shovi. The area is accessible for most of the year, although the highest parts are snow-covered in winter.