Overview
Ataaz Kahakla, meaning “Gorge of Death,” is a spectacular river canyon in Chult where the River Tath flows through before emptying into Jahaka Bay. The canyon is a geological marvel that was once submerged beneath an ancient sea.
Physical Description
The canyon walls vary dramatically in height from 50 to 200 feet. What makes Ataaz Kahakla truly remarkable are the cliff walls lined with row upon row of dead coral that still retains its rainbow colors, creating the appearance of a breathtaking pseudo-underwater seascape. Among the colorful coral formations are intact skeletons of marine creatures including plesiosauruses and giant sharks, evidence of the region’s ancient oceanic past.
Geography
The canyon is located along the River Tath, which originates from the Aldani Basin to the east and flows westward through Ataaz Kahakla before continuing to Jahaka Bay. The river passes over waterfalls as it makes its way through this geological formation.
Significance
The gorge inspires wonder in most who witness it, serving as a natural monument to Chult’s ancient history when the region was covered by ocean waters.