Leghvtakhevi Waterfall
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall: Old Tbilisi’s Hidden Waterfall
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is the hidden waterfall in Old Tbilisi that many travelers simply call the Old Tbilisi Waterfall or Old Town Waterfall. Located at the end of a narrow gorge behind the Abanotubani sulfur baths, this 22-metre natural waterfall is one of the most unexpected sights in central Tbilisi.
Despite its central location, the gorge feels surprisingly separate from the busy streets of the Old Town. Visiting the waterfall is free, and most travellers need approximately 20–40 minutes to explore the accessible path and take photographs.
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall Quick Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Leghvtakhevi Gorge, Abanotubani, Old Tbilisi |
| Waterfall height | Approximately 22 metres |
| Admission | Free |
| Visiting hours | Open-air attraction with no fixed hours |
| Recommended time | 20–40 minutes |
| Walking level | Easy, with some uneven or slippery surfaces |
| Best time to visit | Spring, early morning or around dusk |
| Accessibility | Not fully wheelchair or stroller accessible |
What Does Leghvtakhevi Mean?
The name comes from two Georgian words: leghvi, meaning fig, and khevi, meaning gorge. The valley was historically associated with fig trees, which gave the area its present name.
The Tsavkisistskali River flows from the slopes above Tbilisi, passes through the National Botanical Garden and continues down the gorge towards the Mtkvari River. According to Georgia’s official tourism portal, the waterfall is approximately 22 metres high. Learn more from Georgia Travel.
How to Find the Waterfall Near the Tbilisi Sulfur Baths
The waterfall near the Tbilisi sulfur baths is located behind the colourful Chreli Abano bathhouse in Abanotubani.
From Meidan Square, walk towards the colourful Chreli Abano bathhouse and continue behind the brick bath domes. Follow the pedestrian walkway into the gorge until you reach the waterfall.
From Liberty Square, the walk normally takes approximately 15–20 minutes through Kote Afkhazi Street, Meidan Square and Abanotubani.
Avlabari is the nearest practical metro station on the opposite side of the river. From the station, walk downhill towards Metekhi Bridge, cross into Old Tbilisi and continue towards the sulfur baths.
Driving is not recommended because streets around Abanotubani are narrow and nearby parking is limited.
Best Time to Visit
The waterfall changes noticeably with the seasons:
- Spring: The strongest water flow and the greenest surroundings.
- Summer: Lower water levels, but the shaded gorge provides a pleasant break from the heat.
- Autumn: Cooler temperatures and softer light for photography.
- Winter: The waterfall may partly freeze during particularly cold weather.
Morning is usually best for a quieter visit. The gorge is also atmospheric around dusk, when the paths and surrounding buildings begin to light up.
Safety and Temporary Closures
The pedestrian route is generally straightforward, but wet surfaces can become slippery. Wear comfortable shoes and supervise young children near the water and railings.
Temporary barriers may occasionally restrict access because of heavy rain, maintenance or the risk of falling stones. Always respect warning signs and do not climb around closed sections to reach the waterfall.
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall or Botanical Garden Waterfall?
These are two different attractions.
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is located beside Abanotubani and can be visited free of charge. The larger garden area contains another waterfall inside the National Botanical Garden of Georgia, which has separate entrances, admission fees and opening hours.
The water at Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is river water. It is not the naturally hot sulfur water used by the nearby bathhouses.
Explore Old Tbilisi with a Local Guide
The Old Tbilisi Free Tour operated by Tbilisi Free Walking Tours explores the historic centre and finishes near the sulfur baths in Abanotubani.
The waterfall is best visited independently before or after the tour, as the entrance to the gorge is only a short walk from the finishing area.
Places to Visit Nearby
Leghvtakhevi Waterfall can easily be combined with:
- Tbilisi Sulfur Baths
- Juma Mosque
- National Botanical Garden
- Narikala Fortress
- Mother of Georgia
- Rike–Narikala Cable Car
Is Leghvtakhevi Waterfall Worth Visiting?
Yes. It is worth visiting because it combines natural scenery, historic architecture and one of the most atmospheric walking routes in Old Tbilisi.
The waterfall itself is relatively small and its water level changes seasonally, so it should not be approached as a major wilderness attraction. Its real appeal is the unusual experience of finding a narrow, green gorge and natural waterfall within a few minutes’ walk of central Tbilisi.
FAQ
Is Leghvtakhevi Waterfall free?
Yes. There is no entrance fee for the accessible gorge path or the waterfall.
Is Leghvtakhevi Waterfall open 24 hours?
It is an outdoor attraction without formal ticket-office hours. However, temporary safety closures can occur, and visiting in daylight is preferable if you are unfamiliar with the route.
How long does a visit take?
Allow approximately 20–40 minutes for the walk, photographs and a short stop beside the waterfall.
Can I swim in Leghvtakhevi Waterfall?
No. It is not a designated swimming area, and visitors should remain on the official pedestrian path.
Is the waterfall inside the Botanical Garden?
No. Leghvtakhevi Waterfall is beside Abanotubani and is free to visit. The Botanical Garden has another waterfall inside its ticketed territory