Roshka

The small alpine village of Roshka is nestled in the meadows of the Great Caucasus Mountains, along the banks of the Roshkistskali River, in Dusheti Municipality, Khevsureti region. Positioned at an elevation of 2,000 meters (6,561 feet) above sea level, it is located 74 kilometers (46 miles) from Dusheti. As of the 2014 census, only 10 residents call Roshka home. This quiet, remote village serves as an excellent overnight stop for trekkers journeying from Khevi to Khevsureti.

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, Roshka is part of a popular trekking route. Hikers typically start in the village of Juta and pass through the Chaukhi Pass, which rises to 3,341 meters (10,961 feet) above sea level. This trail connects Kazbegi Municipality with Khevsureti and offers spectacular views of the Chaukhi Mountain range and the famous three Abudelauri Lakes, each with a distinct color—green, blue, and white.

Travelers have two accommodation options: camping near the picturesque lakes or staying in one of the few guesthouses in Roshka. These guesthouses provide basic amenities but promise a unique experience with homemade mountain food. Whether you choose to camp or stay in a guesthouse, don't miss this rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the area.

Roshka is about 106 kilometers (66 miles) from Tbilisi, a drive that takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes, and only 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Barisakho. A 4x4 vehicle is essential for the journey, as the terrain is rugged and challenging.

One of the unique sights in the area is the Roshka Rocks Natural Monument, home to the world's "erratic" or "wandering" rocks. These enormous boulders, deposited by a Pleistocene glacier, feature impressive dimensions: 19 x 5 x 7 meters (62 x 16 x 23 feet), 22 x 13 x 10 meters (72 x 43 x 33 feet), 22 x 20 x 8 meters (72 x 66 x 26 feet), and the largest, known as "Split Rock," measures 25 x 10 x 11 meters (82 x 33 x 36 feet). Despite their smaller size compared to other natural formations, these erratic rocks are striking in their appearance and historical significance.

The rocks are located near the Abudelauri Lakes and in the Aragvi Gorge below Roshka. The glacier that transported these rocks once extended as far as the village of Leghvi, which sits at 1,450 meters (4,757 feet) above sea level.

At an elevation of 2,067 meters (6,781 feet) above sea level, the Roshka Rocks Natural Monument is a must-see for visitors exploring the region.