Kelitsadi Lake

Situated at 2,900 meters above sea level on the Keli Volcanic Plateau, Kelitsadi Lake is a striking example of the rugged, high-altitude terrain of the Greater Caucasus. Unlike the verdant valleys found elsewhere in Georgia, this region is defined by dark, basaltic lava flows and volcanic cones, creating a stark, lunar landscape that remains under ice for much of the year.

Geological Origins and Landscape

This expansive, crater-fed lake covers approximately 1.28 square kilometers and represents one of the largest alpine bodies of water in the region. The Keli Plateau itself is a significant geological feature, formed by centuries of volcanic activity that left behind a desolate yet compelling environment. Due to the extreme altitude, the lake typically remains frozen until early July. The area is entirely exposed, lacking forest cover, which leaves it vulnerable to intense mountain winds and sudden shifts in weather.

Cultural and Geographic Significance

Beyond its physical beauty, the plateau serves as a remote frontier within the Greater Caucasus, characterized by absolute silence and isolation. Historically, these high-altitude zones were challenging for human settlement, serving primarily as seasonal grazing grounds. Today, the area is valued for its pristine wilderness and geological interest. Visitors encounter a landscape where wildflowers emerge among volcanic rock during the short summer window from mid-July to early September, offering a sharp contrast to the black, craggy terrain.