Kotlovka & Lavorishkes Border Crossing

A Closed Northern Gateway to Vilnius

Important Note for Travelers: This border crossing has been closed by the Lithuanian authorities as of March 1, 2024, and remains closed. It is not operational. This guide is provided for historical and informational purposes only.

The border crossing connecting Kotlovka in Belarus with Lavoriškės in Lithuania was a significant international checkpoint, serving as a key northern route to the Lithuanian capital, Vilnius. It was a 24/7 facility, open to both passenger cars and commercial freight, and provided an important alternative to the main Minsk-Vilnius highway at Medininkai. To travel this route was to take a journey through a scenic landscape of forests and lakes, a quieter but still vital corridor that reflected the deep historical connections between the two nations. Its closure has further concentrated traffic on the few remaining open crossings, increasing pressure on an already strained system.

Operational Details

This checkpoint connected the Hrodna Region of Belarus with Lithuania’s Vilnius County. It was located on the road that connects the Belarusian town of Astravyets (Ostrovets) with Vilnius. Its importance grew in recent years due to the construction of the Belarusian Nuclear Power Plant near Astravyets, which increased traffic and strategic focus on the area. The crossing was a full-service international post, equipped to handle a steady flow of traffic, and was often recommended as a less congested alternative to the main highway.

Before Crossing

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A History of a Multicultural Borderland

The history of this region is that of the eastern edge of the historic Vilnius Region. The area has been a multicultural borderland for centuries, with Lithuanian, Belarusian, and Polish communities living side-by-side. The landscape is dotted with small villages, traditional wooden houses, and historic churches. The border, established in the 20th century, cut through this landscape, but local connections remained. The crossing at Lavoriškės was a key point for maintaining these ties, as well as for facilitating trade and tourism. The name Lavoriškės is associated with a historic royal manor of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, highlighting the area’s deep historical roots.

Former Border Procedure

The border crossing procedure, when it was operational, was a standard two-part process for entering the EU and the Schengen Area. Travelers would first complete exit formalities at the Belarusian checkpoint at Kotlovka. This involved checks by border guards and customs officials. After this, they would proceed to the Lithuanian checkpoint at Lavoriškės for a full EU entry inspection by the State Border Guard Service (VSAT) and Lithuanian Customs. A valid passport, a Schengen visa (if required), vehicle registration, and international insurance (Green Card) were required. While it was generally considered less congested than the main Medininkai crossing, wait times could still be significant, especially for freight.

The Surrounding Region

The surrounding area is known for its natural beauty. On the Lithuanian side, the road from Lavoriškės to Vilnius passes through scenic forests and near several lakes. The area is popular for recreation and country living. The capital city, Vilnius, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town, is the main destination. On the Belarusian side, the crossing is near the town of Astravyets. The region is part of the Narachansky National Park, a beautiful area known as the “Blue Lakes” region of Belarus, famous for its pristine lakes and dense forests. This made the crossing a potential gateway for eco-tourism between the two countries.

Closure Due to National Security

The closure of the Lavoriškės-Kotlovka crossing in early 2024 was part of a broader move by Lithuania to increase pressure on the Belarusian government and enhance its own national security. Citing concerns over national security, smuggling of sanctioned goods, and the actions of the Belarusian regime, Lithuania has progressively sealed its border, leaving only the two main crossings at Medininkai and Šalčininkai operational. This decision was a direct response to the ongoing political tensions and the perceived threats emanating from Belarus since 2020.

Final Considerations

The Kotlovka–Lavoriškės border crossing was once a vital and scenic northern gateway between Belarus and Lithuania. It served as a crucial artery for trade and travel, connecting the beautiful lake districts of both countries. Its closure is a stark symbol of the deteriorating relationship between the two neighbors and the new “Iron Curtain” descending on Europe’s eastern flank. The silent checkpoint now stands as a testament to how quickly political conflict can sever long-standing connections, turning a busy road into a dead end and a bridge between cultures into a fortified barrier.