Takhti-Tepha Natural Monument, Protected natural area near Takhti-Tepha mountain range, Georgia.
Takhti-Tepha is a protected natural area containing several mud craters that continuously release mud, oil, and gas from the ground. These craters form through geological processes beneath the surface that force material upward.
The mud volcanoes lie within Vashlovani Protected Areas in Dedoplistsqaro Municipality, on a plain south of the Dali water reservoir. The landform was created by eruptions of mud, slurries, water and gases near the Takhti-Tepha mountain range. The site covers 9.7 ha and its landscape is built of sandstones and clays.
The name combines the Georgian words for "throne" (takhti) and "hill" (tepha), referring to the hilltop where the craters sit. The site lies within Vashlovani Protected Areas in Dedoplistsqaro Municipality, and a 0.5 km pedestrian path crosses it. Mud, oil and gas rise continuously from the largest crater, 3.5–4 m across, and from the small vents around it.
A simple pedestrian path guides visitors to the active craters and offers a clear view of all the formations. The nearest town with lodging is some distance away and should be used as a base for a day trip.
The main crater measures 3.5 to 4 metres across, and the vents around it never stop: mud, oil and gas keep rising and the mud then runs down into the ravine below. The ground here is built of sandstone and clay.
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