Lake Paravani

The largest lake in Georgia

Paravani Lake is located some 40 km northeast of the city of Ninotsminda in the south of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Paravani Lake is the largest lake in Georgia and famous for its abundance of fish.

The volcanic-tectoniclake is situated at an altitude of 2073 meters above sea level and although its depth does not exceed three meters, it covers an area of almost 38 square kilometers.

Javakheti is characterized by harsh climatic conditions. So no matter what season you come to visit in, always be sure to bring warm clothes and sturdy shoes.

Speaking of harsh conditions, a special sight awaits you here in winter when the lake freezes and the ice can be up to more than 70 cm thick. But of course, Paravani Lake has a lot to offer through spring, summer and fall too, such as fish. Several rivers join the lake, which is very popular among fishermen. In Paravani Lake you can find khramuli, trout, carp, chafala and many other species of fish. The larger trout in the lake sometimes weigh up to more than 30 kg!

The color of the lake depends on the weather and can go from deep blue to light green. And the water of Paravani Lake also holds some secrets: divers accidentally discovered a huge object at the bottom of the lake, which turned out to be a 30-meter-long Bronze Age tomb. Researchers also found a variety of household items that date back to the 4th century.

Not only the lake itself, but the surrounding area is always worth a visit too. Among other things you can find the beautiful villages of Paravani, Poka, Vladimirovka, Tambovka and Aspara, Poka Monastery, Shaori Fortress and, on the east side of the lake, Paravani Caravansary.

How to get there:
Paravani Lake is located 40 km northeast of the city of Ninotsminda in the south of the Samtskhe-Javakheti region close to the border of Armenia. A taxi drive from Ninotsminda takes about 45 minutes and costs around 80 GEL.

Distances from major cities:
Ninotsminda - Paravani Lake: 40 km

Important things to know:
Paravani Lake lies at an altitude of more than 2000 meters above sea level. No matter which season you come to visit in, always be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring warm clothes.

Picture credits: beyondarts GmbH

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.