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- Svanetiya
- Chalaadi Glacier
The Chalaadi Glacier is one of the most accessible and scenic glaciers in the Caucasus, located on the northern slopes of Mount Ushba in Upper Svaneti, near the town of Mestia. It is part of the Svaneti Range and originates at an altitude of around 3,850 meters above sea level, descending through a narrow gorge into the Chalaadi River valley.
This is one of the few glaciers in Georgia that can be reached on foot within a day, making it a popular destination for light hikes and eco-tourism. The trail from the road is about 3 km long and winds through a picturesque forest along a rushing river, ending at the glacier's dramatic ice formations.
Fed by snow from Ushba and Tetnuldi mountains, the glacier's lower portion features rugged cliffs, massive ice blocks, glacial debris, and a powerful meltwater stream flowing into the valley. On clear days, visitors are rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding Svanetian peaks.
Chalaadi is also of scientific interest for glaciologists and environmentalists, as it shows signs of retreat due to climate change. Nevertheless, it remains a striking natural landmark and an integral part of Svaneti’s mountain tourism.
