Chaukhi Pass Trek
Classic trek from Juta in Kazbegi over the 3,340 m Chaukhi Pass to the Abudelauri Lakes and Roshka in Khevsureti, in one or two days.
The Chaukhi Pass trek links two regions of the Greater Caucasus. It starts in Juta in Kazbegi, follows the Juta valley under the rock towers of the Chaukhi massif, and climbs to the Chaukhi Pass at about 3,340 m. On the far side it drops past the Abudelauri Lakes to the village of Roshka in Khevsureti. The full route is about 18 km with nearly 1,300 m of ascent. Fit hikers do it in one long day of 8 to 9 hours; many camp at the lakes and take two.
From Juta the climb is gradual on a well-used path and is usually rated moderate; walking the other way from Roshka is harder. The pass normally opens in the second half of June, with snow patches lingering, and the best season is early July to the end of September. There is no public transport from Roshka, so arrange a driver in advance. The trek is the most popular way for hikers to combine Kazbegi and Khevsureti.
What to see and do
- Walk beneath the rock walls of the Chaukhi massif
- Views from the 3,340 m pass
- Descent past the Abudelauri Lakes
- Arrive in Roshka in Khevsureti
How to visit
Getting there
Start in Juta, about 30 to 40 minutes by taxi from Stepantsminda. Roshka, at the end, is about 3 hours by car from Tbilisi; there is no public transport, so book a driver or guesthouse transfer.
When to go
July–September. Plan 1–2 days here.
- Start early; afternoon storms and cloud are common at the pass.
- Carry a GPS track; the path near the pass crosses scree and snow.
- Walk from Juta to Roshka for the easier direction.
- Book your pickup from Roshka in advance.
Chaukhi Pass Trek: FAQ
How long is the Chaukhi Pass trek?
About 18 km from Juta to Roshka with nearly 1,300 m of ascent. It takes 8 to 9 hours in one day, or two days with a night camping at the Abudelauri Lakes.
When is the Chaukhi Pass open?
The pass is usually walkable from the second half of June, with leftover snow, until the end of September. Early October can work in good weather.
Tours that include Chaukhi Pass Trek
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Nearby places
Straight-line distance from Chaukhi Pass Trek.
