Natural Monument
Melouri Cave Natural Monument
Attraction: Melouri Cave is one of the largest caves in Georgia in terms of scale. The entrance opens at the bottom of a collapse sinkhole 8–10 meters deep and descends to a depth of 15 meters through giant limestone boulders. At the beginning, movement inside the cave is relatively difficult; however, due to the cave's dense network of fissures, extensive chambers have formed at their intersections, measuring up to 100 × 40 × 30 meters. At the end of the chambers, a canyon-like gorge extends for several kilometers, through which a permanent stream flows. As it passes through the canyon, the stream forms rapids and waterfalls, and in the final section it creates a siphon lake. The front section of the cave is characterized by chemical deposits, including stalactites and large stalagmites. The cave is inhabited by bats, spiders, and beetles. The cave also contains numerous unexplored passages and branches, the study of which requires further research.
Melouri Cave is relatively easy to traverse and can be visited by any healthy adult, provided they are accompanied by an experienced guide. Approximately 8–9 hours are required to explore the cave. Required equipment includes a helmet with lighting and high-top, thick-soled, waterproof footwear.
Location: Surroundings of Melouri Village, Tskaltubo Municipality, 418 meters above sea level.
Coordinates: N42 23.241 E42 37.670
Access: The nearest major settlement to the natural monument is the city of Tskaltubo. Tbilisi is 257 km from Tskaltubo; travel time — approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
Tskaltubo – Kumistavi Village — 7.5 km; travel time — approximately 10 minutes.
Kumistavi Village – Melouri Cave Natural Monument — 8 km; travel time — approximately 30 minutes.
Accommodation: The most convenient options for overnight accommodation are in Tskaltubo or Kutaisi, where visitors can stay at a hotel