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Abudelauri Lakes

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Abudelauri Lakes (Georgia)

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The Abudelauri Lakes are a group of three high-alpine glacial lakes in the Khevsureti region of Georgia, on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus. They are located near the village of Roshka at an altitude of about 2,800 meters at the foot of the majestic Chauki massif. The lakes are known for their distinct colors, which have earned them the names Green Lake, Blue Lake, and White Lake. The White Lake is the highest and is fed directly by the glaciers of the Chauki, giving it its characteristic milky-white turbidity. The surroundings are characterized by rugged rock formations, alpine meadows, and moraine landscapes, which are a paradise for hikers and mountaineers. The lakes are frozen for most of the year and are only accessible ice-free during the summer months from July to September. In local mythology, the lakes are considered sacred places connected with the legends of the Caucasian mountain dwellers. The ascent to the lakes is considered one of the most scenic hikes in Georgia.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-10-9-417111414104-2-8
Rain mm282646638986585346523324

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Access generally begins from nearby mountain villages in Khevsureti, which can be reached by a rugged road. From the lower valley, reaching the colorful alpine lakes requires a rather steep and highly rewarding hike that typically takes a few hours.
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Best season
The remarkably brief window from late June to early September is strictly the best time to visit, as the high trails are clear of deep snow. Outside this period, the mountain passes are typically completely blocked by harsh, unforgiving winter conditions.
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Terrain & paths
The demanding ascent involves securely navigating steep, rocky alpine pastures and narrow scree paths directly at the base of the imposing Chaukhi Massif. The lake terrain is dramatically uneven and physically demanding, climbing to high elevations.
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What to bring
Highly reliable, completely waterproof trekking boots with excellent grip are absolutely indispensable for the rocky mountain paths. Hikers must pack layered clothing for unpredictable alpine weather changes and sturdy walking poles for the long descent.
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Parking
Eager visitors typically leave their vehicles at makeshift dirt parking spots in the closest valley settlements before enthusiastically continuing on foot. There are absolutely no formal paved lots, so drivers must find a space that doesn't block locals.
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Safety
Sudden thick fogs and dramatic temperature drops are incredibly common near the high peaks, making basic orientation challenging. It is absolutely critical to start the hike early in the day and to carry a detailed map or reliable offline GPS device.
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Time needed
The arduous round-trip hike from the lower valley to the colored lakes and back typically requires a full day of about 6 to 8 hours. Many dedicated trekkers opt to securely camp near the lakes overnight to soak in the dramatic Chaukhi views at dawn.

Geography

Coordinates
42.56670, 44.95000

Facts

  • The lakes are situated at an average altitude of 2,800 meters.
  • The three lakes have colors of green, blue, and white.
  • The White Lake is fed directly by glacial meltwater.
  • The hike from the village of Roshka takes about 2 to 3 hours.
  • The lakes are usually covered with ice until the end of June.
  • The Chauki massif towers over the lakes at over 3,800 meters.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

JutaJuta23 km · SExplore →
Shatili Mountain VillageShatili Mountain Village24 km · NExplore →
Mutso Mountain VillageMutso Mountain Village27 km · NExplore →
TianetiTianeti36 km · WExplore →
Sno ValleySno Valley37 km · SExplore →
Gergeti Trinity ChurchGergeti Trinity Church37 km · SExplore →
Gveleti WaterfallGveleti Waterfall38 km · SExplore →
Larsi Border CrossingLarsi Border Crossing39 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Abudelauri Lakes (6)

ug'eltexili arxoti, 2935 m🌿 nature

A mountain pass at 2935 metres connecting the Khevsureti and Arkhoti valleys.

nasop`lar kviracmindas koshkis nangrevebi📍 landmark

The stone remains of an ancient defensive tower in the remote mountain region.

t`et`raulebis koshki🛡️ fortress

A medieval stone watchtower and fortification guarding a steep slope in Khevsureti.

Korsha Museum🏛 museum

A local museum showcasing the traditional folk art and weapons of the Khevsureti region.

Iakhsari Stone📍 landmark

A sacred shrine stone that is of great significance to local highland traditions.

mt`avarangelozis jvari(MG)📍 landmark

A traditional stone shrine marked by a cross near the village of Roshka.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why are there three different Abudelauri lakes?
They are known as the Green, Blue, and White lakes, their different colors caused by depth and glacial silt.
From where does the hike to the lakes start?
The most common starting point is the village of Roshka in the Khevsureti region, about a two-hour drive from Tbilisi.
When are the colors of the lakes most intense?
In early summer (June-July), when snowmelt is complete and the alpine meadows are in full bloom.
Can you camp at the Abudelauri lakes?
Yes, it is a popular spot for wild camping, but prepare for cold nights as the lakes are above 2,600m.
Is the hike suitable for beginners?
The hike from Roshka to the Blue Lake is moderate, but the climb to the White Lake requires a bit more endurance.
Abudelauri Lakes: where is it located?
Abudelauri Lakes is located in Georgia.
Abudelauri Lakes: what is there to see?
Highlights include ug'eltexili arxoti, 2935 m, nasop`lar kviracmindas koshkis nangrevebi, t`et`raulebis koshki.
Abudelauri Lakes: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Abudelauri Lakes: why is it worth visiting?
The Abudelauri Lakes are a group of three high-alpine glacial lakes in the Khevsureti region of Georgia, on the southern slopes of the Greater Caucasus.
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