Abudelauri Lakes

The Abudelauri Lakes, or Abudelauri Lake, are a stunning natural attraction located in the Lower Khevsureti region, near the Khevsurian village of Roshka. This breathtaking site consists of three high-altitude lakes scattered between 2,600 and 2,800 meters above sea level. These lakes lie along the trekking route from Juta to Roshka, making them a popular stop for those traversing this path. In recent years, the lakes have also become a pilgrimage site for domestic tourists, leading to increased foot traffic, especially on weekends.

The Abudelauri Lakes comprise three distinct bodies of water: the White, Blue, and Green Lakes. In formal geography, only the uppermost lake—the White Lake—is classified as part of the Abudelauri system. Streams flowing from the lakes and the adjacent glaciers feed into the Abudelauri River, which winds through the Abudelauri Valley. If you decide to hike to the lakes, be prepared for a gentle ascent of approximately 5 kilometers from Roshka to the lower two lakes, followed by a separate climb to the White Lake. This journey typically takes one day (if you have your own transport). The trek to the White Lake (2,800 meters) is beneficial for acclimatizing your body to higher altitudes, making it a worthwhile endeavor before tackling more challenging climbs.

The Green Lake is the first stop on the route and is also the least remarkable. There is nothing particularly green about it, although it does appear somewhat verdant due to the surrounding meadows. Most visitors pass by this lake without stopping. However, if you plan to ascend to the Chaukhi Pass, it makes sense to set up camp on its shores.

By late summer, the Green Lake tends to dry up significantly. In the spring, it stretches long, but as the season progresses, it gradually shrinks into a round shape, as seen in the photograph above.

The Blue Lake is considered the most striking of the three. To truly appreciate its beauty, visit when the water is high and the surrounding rhododendrons are in bloom. Unlike the Green Lake, the Blue Lake is encircled by volcanic rock debris rather than meadows. The water is indeed a vivid blue, although its hue varies with the seasons. 

This lake is a favored picnic spot for all who come here. Some visitors choose to linger here rather than continue on to the White Lake, thus conserving their time and energy.

A distinctive feature of the Blue Lake is its unique, calming silence. It would be an ideal setting for relaxation and meditation, were it not for its altitude. At 2,600 meters, it can be challenging to maintain a sense of tranquility. Daytime visitors can also disrupt this peace. For those seeking solitude, it is best to camp by the Green Lake and visit the Blue Lake in the morning before the crowds arrive.

To travel from the Blue Lake to the White Lake requires about an hour of uphill trekking along a trail leading to the Chaukhi Glacier. The elevation difference between the two lakes is 200 meters, but a great deal changes over that distance. The rhododendrons disappear, and nearly all vegetation gives way to a polar tundra, almost devoid of life. As you ascend through lifeless rocky debris, you will eventually catch sight of the eerily white lake. It is beautiful, yet its starkness and austerity can be overwhelming.

The Abudelauri Lakes tend to dry up somewhat by the end of August. Additionally, the most captivating aspect of this region is the rhododendron thickets, which bloom in July. Therefore, the most enchanting time to visit is in July, when everything is adorned with white blossoms.

The path to the lakes is not particularly difficult, but the altitude of 2,800 meters is significant. Those who struggle with altitude may encounter issues here. The primary danger, however, lies in the weather. Fog can descend suddenly, clouds can roll in, and cold rain or hail can occur at any time of the year. Be prepared for the worst; pack a sweater, a jacket, and ideally a raincoat or tarp. It is also wise to bring along 100 to 200 grams of vodka or chacha to warm up after a rain shower.

If you plan to make it a day trip, aim to leave early. The round trip from Roshka can take about five hours, and it is best to return by around 5 PM, allowing for a couple of hours of daylight. Rain typically falls in the evening, around 6 PM.

The trek to the lakes is straightforward and does not present any hidden challenges. It is also difficult to get lost: the Abudelauri Valley is surrounded by steep slopes, making it nearly impossible to stray beyond its confines.