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Aragvi River

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Aragvi is one of the most significant rivers in eastern Georgia and a major tributary of the Kura (Mtkvari). It originates in the Greater Caucasus and is formed by the confluence of the White Aragvi (Tetri Aragvi) and the Black Aragvi (Shavi Aragvi) near Pasanauri. The river is approximately 112 kilometers long and drains a catchment area of about 2,724 square kilometers. Strategically and historically, the Aragvi valley is of great importance as the famous Georgian Military Highway runs along its course. In 1986, the Zhinvali dam was completed, which impounds the river to form a reservoir providing the capital Tbilisi with drinking water and electricity. Significant cultural monuments, such as the Ananuri fortress overlooking the valley, are located on the banks of the river. The Aragvi is also a popular destination for rafting and kayaking, especially in spring during the snowmelt. The colors of the different source branches often remain distinguishable for kilometers after their confluence, which is a striking visual feature of the river.

Location: Georgia
Top sights: Pompey's bridge · Armaziskhevi Complex · Church of Saint Nino
Nearby: Marneuli (30 km)

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The river is frequently approached via the Georgian Military Highway, starting from the historic town of Mtskheta or directly from Tbilisi.

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Best season

Late spring and summer, from May to September, offer the warmest weather for water sports and clear skies for enjoying the valley scenery.

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Terrain & paths

The surrounding landscape features dramatic, steep-sided valleys and rocky banks, though gentle paths run parallel to much of the lower river.

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What to bring

Sturdy walking boots, layered clothing for variable mountain temperatures, and specific safety gear like life jackets if undertaking rafting activities.

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Parking

Tourists typically leave their cars at designated viewpoints along the highway or near local guesthouses before walking down to the river.

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Safety

Currents can be exceptionally strong and unpredictable, especially during spring melts; always use experienced local guides for water activities.

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Time needed

A brief photo stop takes less than an hour, while organized rafting excursions or hikes along the adjacent valleys typically consume a full half-day.

Geography

Coordinates

41.83330, 44.70000

Facts

The total length of the Aragvi is approximately 112 kilometers.
The Zhinvali reservoir has a maximum depth of 75 meters.
The Zhinvali dam was put into operation in the year 1986.
The river flows into the Kura (Mtkvari) near Mtskheta.
The catchment area covers approximately 2,724 square kilometers.
The White and Black Aragvi unite at the town of Pasanauri.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

📍Mtskheta2 km · NEExplore →

Jvari Monastery4 km · NExplore →

Chronicle of Georgia10 km · NWExplore →

Vake Park11 km · NWExplore →

Mushtaidi Park13 km · NWExplore →

Mount Mtatsminda14 km · NWExplore →

Gabriadze Theater16 km · NWExplore →

Mount Didgori23 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Aragvi River (9)

Pompey's bridge 🏺 historical

This ancient Roman stone bridge over the Mtkvari River was named after General Pompey and dates back to the 1st century BC.

Armaziskhevi Complex 🏺 historical

An important archaeological complex containing the remains of a royal residence and necropolis from the era of the Kingdom of Iberia.

Church of Saint Nino⛪ religious

This historical Georgian Orthodox church is dedicated to Saint Nino and is protected as a national monument.

Armazi Fortress 📍 landmark

An ancient hilltop citadel that once guarded the strategic approach to the historical capital, Mtskheta.

Monastery of Shiomghvime 📍 landmark

This 6th-century monastic complex is famous for its numerous caves carved into the limestone cliffs.

🕒 10:00-19:00

Didgori🌿 nature

A prominent mountain peak in the Trialeti Range, known as the site of the historic Battle of Didgori in 1121.

karsanis g'vt`ismshoblis eklesia ⛪ religious

This Orthodox church is tucked away among the forested hills of the Karsani valley.

Church of Saint George in Karsani⛪ religious

A protected historical church in the Karsani valley, representing an important religious heritage of the region.

koshki 📍 landmark

A stone watchtower typical of medieval Georgian defensive architecture in this mountainous region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What sporting activities are possible on the Aragvi river?

Rafting and kayaking are very popular, especially between Pshavi and Magharoskari, with various difficulty levels.

What is special about the confluence of Black and White Aragvi?

In Pasanauri, you can see how the two differently colored streams merge without mixing immediately.

When is the best time for rafting?

High season is from late April to October, with water levels highest in spring due to snowmelt.

Is the river suitable for swimming?

In calmer spots yes, but the water remains very refreshing even in summer, and currents can be strong.

What attractions are located along the Aragvi?

Ananuri Fortress sits right by the Zhinvali Reservoir, fed by the Aragvi, offering a fantastic photo opportunity.

Aragvi River: where is it located?

Aragvi River is located in Georgia.

Aragvi River: what is there to see?

Highlights include Pompey's bridge, Armaziskhevi Complex, Church of Saint Nino.

Aragvi River: why is it worth visiting?

The Aragvi is one of the most significant rivers in eastern Georgia and a major tributary of the Kura (Mtkvari).

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Aragvi River