Region of Lechkhumi | ლეჩხუმი

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Where is Lekhumi

Location

the Region Lekhumi is situated in the northern part of western Georgia and is surrounded by various mountain ranges that separate it from the neighbouring regions of Racha in the east, Svaneti in the north, Imereti in the west and Mingrelia in the south-west. The area is very mountainous and is surrounded by mountain ranges on almost all sides, including the Egrisi Mountains, the Lechkhumi Mountains and the massive Askhi Mountains.

Geography

The Lechkhumi region consists mainly of two valleys: the Tskhenistskali and the Rioni valleys. Important rivers include the Dzhonouli, the Rachkha and a few others. Lechkhumi is a forested region where trees such as chestnut, oak, hornbeam, maple and lime grow. Firs are also found at higher altitudes.

Above 1800 metres, subalpine and alpine meadows extend. This part of the municipality belongs to the zone of low and medium mountain forests of the Kolkheti region. The location of the Khvamli and Askhi mountains to the south and west creates a more pleasant microclimate than in the rest of western Georgia.

Climate

At lower altitudes, at around 800 metres above sea level, the average annual air temperature is +11.4 °C. In January, the average temperature is around -0 °C, in July it rises to around +22 °C.

History and culture

Key historical passages

Traces of human settlement in the Lechkhumi region date back to the Palaeolithic and Neolithic eras. In the Late Bronze and Early Iron Ages, it was an important centre of metallurgy. After unification with the Kingdom of Georgia, Takveri Saeristavo, today’s Racha and Lechkhumi, emerged.

Although Lechkhumi was the smallest political unit in western Georgia, it was home to numerous fortresses that provided important protection in times of war. According to historical sources, the treasures of the Georgian kings were kept on Mount Khvamli.

From the 17th century, the Lechkumi region sought independence and the office of the head of Lechkumi was created. After Takveri was replaced by Lechkumi in the 12th to 14th century, the name Lechkumi was first used at the end of the 15th century. Its commercial centre was Lailashi.

After the founding of the Kingdom of Imereti, Lechkhumi was incorporated into the kingdom as a royal domain. Later, in the 17th century, the Lechkhumi nobles tried to settle in the city. In 1714 it became part of the Principality of Mingrelia and played an important role in the economy and military policy of Odishi.

Today, the historic region of Lechkhumi, known as the municipality of Tsageri, belongs to the Racha-Lechkhumi-Lower Svaneti region.

Wine and food

The region is known for its wines. Some local grape varieties, such as Tvischi and Usachelauri, are internationally renowned and command high prices on the world market.

Travel tips for the Lechkhumi region

Attractions and activities

Cultural site

• The Dekhviri fortress in Letschchumi, near the village of Dekhviri, is a monument from the High Middle Ages. It was first mentioned in the 17th century and is now only preserved as a ruin. In the 16th to 18th centuries, it controlled important valleys along the Tskhenistskali-Lajanuri river in the Kingdom of Imereti.
• Muri, an important medieval fortress, is situated on the bank of the Zkheniskhali River at the entrance to Svaneti. As part of a defence system, the site comprised three fortresses that together formed a complex bulwark. The site is easily accessible to visitors via a footpath. From the hill there is a beautiful view of the valley and mountains of Svaneti.
• The Orbeli Fortress, dating from the 12th to 13th century, was an integral part of the defence system in the Zchniszkali river valley. The well-preserved ruins offer a glimpse of architecture similar to traditional Swatetian tower-houses. The site is easily accessible on foot.
• The synagogue in the village of Lailash is particularly fascinating. It contains a very old Jewish Bible from the 10th century. The village itself is situated in a beautiful landscape and is architecturally interesting.

Natural sights

• The Chvamli Mountains, one of the highlights of the region, is a rocky massif over 2000 metres high. The plateau offers impressive rock formations and a rich flora and fauna. According to legend, the treasure of the Georgian kings lies here. There is a small chapel and some archaeological ruins on the mountain. It is easily accessible by car and offers magnificent views as far as the Black Sea and the Caucasus Mountains on a clear day.
• The Sairme Pillars are striking rock formations in a narrow gorge between Trschrebalo and the village of Sairme. A short hike along a 3-kilometre trail through the forest leads to the summit, which is 680 metres above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the pillars.
• The Ghvirishi Waterfall in Lechkhumi near the village of Kveda Ghvirishi is located at an altitude of 625 m. The water plunges from a high rock into a deep gorge, forming a cave and a small reservoir. The panorama offers a magnificent view of the waterfall and the surrounding area, attracting many visitors.
• The Kulbaki Lakes are two lakes in the village of Kulbaki, just 500 metres apart – Lake Mtsvane (Green Lake) and Lake Babushkino. Lake Mtsvane: 955 metres above sea level. Lake Babushkino: 990 metres. The wooded mountains, the freshness and tranquillity of nature and the lakes attract many visitors. They can be reached by car or on interesting hiking trails, for example from Zubi over the Askhi massif to Kulbaki. There is also a beautiful trout farm here.

Resorts

• Lashichala, 800-900 m above sea level in the Lajanura Valley of Tsageris, offers a mild climate, a carbonated hydrogen carbonate magnesium magnesium-calcium mineral water with a mineralisation of 0.8-1.2 g/l, a temperature of 13-15 °C and a daily yield of 12,000 l. It is used for drinking and bathing cures for digestive disorders. It is used for drinking and bathing cures for digestive disorders and has sanitary and medical facilities. Season: summer.
• Akhalkalaki is a mountainous resort at an altitude of over 2000 metres. Although it is not a spa resort, it still attracts visitors and tourists. The town is surrounded by magnificent mixed forests and, thanks to its microclimate, offers particularly pure air. Guests can go hiking, horse riding or simply enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Access is either by 4×4 or on foot. The cabins are very basic and visitors are asked to bring their own equipment such as sleeping bags and mattresses.

Activities

• Cultural excursions: Those interested in culture can visit old castles, churches, synagogues and museums.
• Photography: The landscape and cultural monuments offer fascinating subjects for photographers.
• Cycling: The villages of Letschchumi are very attractive for cyclists. In particular, the Orbeli Pass, which connects Letschchumi with Ratscha, is a wonderful route for cyclists.
• Culinary and wine tours: The region offers unique culinary experiences and tempting dishes for gourmets. Some host families organise culinary excursions where you can taste the delicious local dishes and wines. The region’s ham and white wine are particularly well known.
• Rafting: Rafting on the Rioni River is a popular activity offered by several providers in the region.
• Fishing: Fishing is possible in the Green Lakes for a fee. You can either fish competitively or normally.

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