The Nakra River

The Nakra River: A Wild Glacial River of Svaneti

The Nakra River (მდინარე ნაკრა) is a high-altitude glacial river in the Mestia Municipality of Upper Svaneti. It is a right tributary of the Enguri River, originating from the large Nakra Glacier on the southern slopes of the Main Caucasus Range. The river flows through one of the most remote, wild, and least-visited valleys in Svaneti. The Nakra valley is a place of extreme natural beauty, a pristine wilderness of glaciers, high peaks, ancient forests, and the traditional Svan village of Nakra, which lies in the lower part of the valley.

The river is a powerful torrent of cold, milky water, characteristic of a river born from a large glacier. Its valley has become a focus of attention in recent years due to the controversial plans for the Nenskra Hydropower Plant project on its neighboring river. The Nakra valley, therefore, has become a symbol for many of the untouched natural heritage of Svaneti that is under threat from large-scale development. It remains a destination for adventurous trekkers seeking an authentic experience of the Svaneti wilderness.

ℹ️ General Information

• Name of River: Nakra River (მდინარე ნაკრა)
• Location: Mestia Municipality, Samegrelo-Zemo Svaneti, Georgia.
• Length: 22 km (13.7 miles)
• Basin Size: 168 km² (65 sq mi)
• Source (Origin): Nakra Glacier, Main Caucasus Range.
• Mouth (Where it flows): Right tributary of the Enguri River.
• Main Tributaries: Various glacial streams.

📍 Geography & Course

The Nakra begins at the tongue of the glacier and flows south through a deep, U-shaped glacial valley. The upper part of the valley is a rugged landscape of moraines and alpine meadows. The lower part is covered in dense coniferous forest. The river flows past the village of Nakra before joining the Enguri.

🌿 Nature & Ecology

The ecosystem of the Nakra valley is exceptionally well-preserved. It is a prime example of a Caucasus high-mountain environment, with distinct vertical zones from glacial to forest belts. The area is a sanctuary for rare wildlife, including the East Caucasian tur, chamois, brown bear, and large raptors. The pristine river is a critical habitat for trout.

🏛️ History & Culture

The Nakra valley is home to the village of Nakra, a traditional Svan community.

• Nakra Village: This remote village has preserved its ancient way of life and features several historic Svan towers. It is a prime example of a traditional Svaneti community living in a remote mountain valley.
• Svani Culture: The river is central to the life and identity of the people of Nakra, who have inhabited this valley for centuries.

🚣 Activities & Tourism

• Wilderness Trekking: The Nakra valley offers some of the most spectacular and untouched trekking routes in Svaneti, for experienced and self-sufficient hikers.
• Cultural and Ethno-Tourism: Visiting the remote village of Nakra provides a unique and authentic cultural experience.
• Mountaineering: The valley is a base for climbing the surrounding peaks of the Caucasus.

🛤️ Accessibility

Access to the Nakra valley is very difficult. A rough, unpaved road leads from the main Enguri valley road, but it is often in poor condition and requires a serious 4×4 vehicle and an experienced driver. The valley is only accessible during the summer months.