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Gabzaruli Lake: Georgia's Cracked Emerald

Discover Gabzaruli Lake: A hidden emerald gem in Georgia's Imereti region, offering pristine waters and stunning natural beauty.

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Gabzaruli Lake, also known as Cracked Lake, is a stunning siphon lake in the Imereti region of Georgia. Nestled in a dramatic, 45-meter-deep canyon sculpted by tectonic forces, its pristine, emerald waters offer a tranquil escape.

A brief summary to Gabzaruli Lake

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning sunrise views.
  • Bring a picnic to fully enjoy the beautiful surroundings and make a day of your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, as the path to the lake can be steep and uneven.
  • Don't forget your camera—the scenery is perfect for photography enthusiasts.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure the best experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kutaisi, take a marshrutka (minibus) to Tskaltubo. From Tskaltubo, head to the local bus station and look for a minibus heading towards Kumistavi. The ride typically costs around 2 GEL and takes about 30 minutes. Once in Kumistavi, you can walk the remaining 1.5 kilometers to Gabzaruli Lake or hire a local taxi for approximately 10 GEL.

  • Walking

    From the Kumistavi bus stop, walk southeast on the main road towards the coordinates 9HHR+98R. The walking distance is approximately 1.5 kilometers and should take about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, as the path can be uneven in certain areas.

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Discover more about Gabzaruli Lake

Gabzaruli Lake, a natural monument also known as Cracked Lake (Gabzaruli Tba), is located near the village of Kumistavi in the Tskaltubo municipality of the Imereti region, Georgia. Situated 166 meters above sea level, this hidden gem is a siphon lake fed by an unexplored cave system. The lake itself is relatively small, measuring approximately 5 meters in length and 4.5 meters in width. However, its depth reaches an impressive 45 meters within a canyon formed by a tectonic rupture. The steep canyon walls are covered in lush deciduous forests, adding to the area's natural beauty. The crystal-clear, emerald-colored waters are used by locals for drinking, fishing, and swimming. To reach the lake, travelers typically journey 7.5 km from Tskaltubo to Kumistavi, followed by a 3 km trek. The path to the lake can be steep and challenging, so appropriate footwear and caution are advised. Despite the challenging access, the reward is well worth the effort, as Gabzaruli Lake offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Georgia's stunning natural landscapes.

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