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Kartsakhi Lake

Kartsakhi Lake, which is also called Lake Khozapini, lies in the southern part of the Georgian Samtskhe-Javakheti province right at the Turkish border. The border divides the lake almost exactly in half, with 53% of its waters being Georgian and 47% Turkish.

You can reach Kartsakhi Lake from the north via the city of Akhalkalaki. It is a drive of approx. 30km. As the road is quite narrow and can get rough sometimes, you should allow at least one hour for the ride and consider hiring an off-road vehicle.   

With a surface covering more than 26 square kilometres, Kartsakhi Lake is the second largest lake in Georgia, surpassed only by Paravani Lake. There is also a village called Kartsakhi, which lies near the lake's north-eastern shore. You will pass it, when you head towards the lake by car from the north.   

Kartsakhi Lake, like many other lakes in Samtskhe-Javakheti, is an alpine lake at an altitude of almost 1800 meters above sea level and is fed by numerous little rivers and creeks.

Despite thebumpy roads, a trip to Kartsakhi Lake can be worth it, especially if you love birdwatching. Kartsakhi Lake lies within Javakheti National Park and is famous for its many different species of nesting and migratory birds, some of which can only be seen here.

Fishing is also very popular, as Kartsakhi Lake is not only rich in local fish species but also home to carp and trout. It is also possible to rent small wooden cabins by the lake if you intend to spend the night right by the shores.

In any case be sure to visit one of the Javakheti Protected Areas Administration Buildings in Akhalkalaki or in Kartsakhi Village before you start your trip. They offer detailed information on sleeping facilities, bike and equipment rental, birdwatching facilities and fishing.    

How to get there:
You can reach Kartsakhi Lake from the north via the city of Alkhalkalaki. It is a drive of approx. 30km. As the road is quite narrow and can get rough sometimes, you should allow at least one hour for the ride, consider hiring an off-road vehicle.     

Distances from major cities:
Akhalkalaki - Kartsakhi Lake: 30 km

Important things to know:
Like many other lakes in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, Kartsakhi Lake lies at an altitude of almost 1800 meters above sea level. No matter which season you come in, always be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring warm clothes. You can birdwatch from various towers along seven hiking, horseback riding and biking routes. Bike rent is approx. 25 GEL, a day of horseback riding approx. 50 GEL. Sport fishing is also allowed, a licence is approx. 10 GEL.

For further information and equipment rental see one of the Javakheti Protected Areas Administration Buildings in Akhalkalaki or in Kartsakhi Village.

Picture credits: Javakheti Protected Areas Agency

Project “Increased regional added value in the tourism sectors of Georgia by Digital Heritage Tourism Guides” was funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) with funds of Austrian Development Cooperation.

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