Leghvtakhevi Waterfall

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Description

Leghvtakhevi Waterfall feels like one of those places that you stumble upon and immediately wonder why you didn’t know about it sooner. Tucked away right behind Tbilisi’s famous sulfur baths, this 22-meter cascade tumbles down into a narrow gorge that locals affectionately call “the fig canyon.” The name makes sense once you notice the wild fig trees clinging to the cliffs, their roots twisted into the rock like they’ve been there forever. It’s a mix of raw nature and city life that somehow works perfectly – you can literally hear the hum of Old Tbilisi just a few steps away, yet the sound of rushing water drowns it all out.

The waterfall is part of the Tsavkisistskali River, which flows from the Mtatsminda Range and winds its way through the Tbilisi Botanical Garden before it spills into this gorge. The air here always feels a little cooler, maybe because of the spray or maybe because of the shade from the cliffs. Either way, it’s a refreshing break from the city’s heat, especially during summer. I’ve been here more than once, and each time, I end up lingering longer than I planned – there’s something about the sound of falling water that makes you forget time.

What’s interesting is how this spot has transformed over the years. Locals say that decades ago, it was nearly hidden and hard to reach. Now, with newly built walkways, bridges, and soft lighting at night, it’s become one of the most photographed corners of Old Tbilisi. And yet, it hasn’t lost its charm. You’ll still see couples sitting quietly on benches, kids tossing pebbles into the stream, and travelers snapping photos from every angle. Sure, it can get a bit crowded, but that’s part of the energy here – a mix of locals and visitors all drawn to this pocket of calm in the middle of the city.

Of course, not everything about it is perfect. Sometimes, after heavy rain, the path can get slippery, and during peak tourist hours, it’s not exactly peaceful. But even then, it’s worth it. The combination of history, nature, and accessibility makes it a must-see. And honestly, it’s one of those places that remind you how Tbilisi blends old and new so effortlessly.

Key Features

• 22-meter-high natural waterfall located in the heart of Old Tbilisi
• Formed by the Tsavkisistskali River as it flows from the Mtatsminda Range
• Accessible via scenic walking paths and small bridges behind the sulfur baths
• Surrounded by cliffs covered in fig trees and lush greenery
• Softly illuminated at night, creating a stunning atmosphere for evening walks
• Close proximity to the Tbilisi Botanical Garden and Abanotubani district
• Free access and open year-round
• Nearby cafes and local shops for refreshments and souvenirs
• Accepts debit cards, credit cards, and NFC mobile payments for nearby services

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me, the best time to visit Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is during spring or early autumn. That’s when the air smells like wet stone and fig leaves, and the water flow is strong but not overwhelming. Mornings are especially magical – fewer people, softer light, and that gentle mist that catches the sun just right. I once went there in late April, and the sound of birds echoing through the gorge made it feel like a hidden sanctuary.

Summer brings more crowds, sure, but it’s also when the area feels most alive. Street musicians sometimes play nearby, and you can grab a lemonade or ice cream while watching the water crash below. Winter, on the other hand, gives the place a quieter, almost mystical mood. The water still flows, though sometimes slower, and the bare cliffs look dramatic against the cold sky.

If you’re into photography, aim for golden hour – just before sunset, when the light turns everything gold. It’s pure magic.

How to Get There

Reaching Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is easier than you might think. It’s right behind the sulfur bath district in Old Tbilisi, which means you can combine your visit with a stroll through one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. Most people start from the Abanotubani area and follow the signs leading toward the gorge. The path is well-marked and takes about five to ten minutes on foot.

If you’re coming from Freedom Square or Rustaveli Avenue, you can walk (it’s roughly a 20-minute stroll) or hop into a taxi or Bolt ride. Public buses also stop nearby, and the route is quite scenic if you enjoy people-watching from the window. Once you reach the entrance, you’ll follow a cobblestone walkway that winds between cafes and old brick buildings before opening up to the sound of rushing water.

For those who like to explore beyond the obvious, you can continue walking past the waterfall into the Tbilisi Botanical Garden. It’s a lovely detour that feels like stepping from cityscape to wilderness in just a few steps.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s what I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) from visiting Leghvtakhevi Waterfall more times than I can count:

• Go early or late. Midday tends to be packed, especially on weekends. Early mornings or evenings are quieter and the light is better for photos.
• Wear comfortable shoes. The path is easy, but parts can be slippery, especially after rain. Sneakers or walking shoes are best.
• Bring a small towel or extra shirt. The mist from the waterfall can leave you damp, especially if you stand too close for that perfect selfie (which, let’s be honest, you will).
• Stay for sunset. The lighting around the gorge changes beautifully as the sun dips behind the cliffs. It’s peaceful, almost cinematic.
• Visit nearby attractions. The sulfur baths, the Botanical Garden, and the Narikala Fortress are all within walking distance. You can easily make a half-day adventure out of it.
• Bring cash just in case. While most nearby cafes accept cards and NFC payments, a few smaller spots still prefer cash.
• Respect the space. It’s a popular spot, but it’s also a natural area. Avoid littering or climbing on rocks near the waterfall – it’s not worth the risk.

One more thing: if you’re traveling with kids or older family members, don’t worry – the paths are safe and well-maintained. There are benches along the way, and the walk isn’t too steep. I once took my parents there, and even though my dad complained about the cobblestones at first, he ended up sitting by the water for half an hour, just watching the ripples. That’s the kind of place this is – simple, calming, and unexpectedly touching.

Leghvtakhevi Waterfall may not be the biggest or most dramatic waterfall you’ll ever see, but it has a charm that stays with you. It’s the kind of spot that makes you pause, breathe, and remember that sometimes, the best travel moments happen when you least expect them. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Tbilisi or a returning traveler looking for something genuine, this little gorge behind the baths will give you exactly that.

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