In addition to the magnificent cities, there is also the other part of Russia - the vast Siberia where the civilization is pushed backwards and the wilderness comes out. The most famous of all nature wonders of Russia is Lake Baikal, which is often referred to as the pearl of Siberia. This picturesque lake is not only the deepest (1700 m) and oldest (25 million years) lake of the world, but also an excellent travel destination for those want to spend their holiday in stunning surroundings of the Siberian wilderness.
Nature. The scenic Lake Baikal is a World Heritage site and one of the natural wonders of the world: it is the deepest and also the largest freshwater lake in the world by volume. However, the uniqueness of Lake Baikal is not restricted to what you see above the water. Due to the isolated location of Lake Baikal in the middle of the Siberian wilderness, this stunning lake has grown to be the home of one of the world’s richest and most unique freshwater faunas. More than that, also the shores of Lake Baikal contain wildlife that can be found by those who dare to give it a try. How would it sound to meet for instance a Siberian bear weighting a good 300 kilos if you go trekking near Lake Baikal?
Cultural heritage. The shores of Lake Baikal are also a home to rich cultural heritage. A good place to explore the way of life of the Siberian people is to go to Irkutsk, one of the largest cities in Siberia, hosting some museums and city services. You can also visit lakeside resort town of Listvyanka, or the interesting Mongol region of Buryatia on the southern and eastern shores of Lake Baikal. Attractions there include the largest island in Lake Baikal, Olkhon, and the Tunkinsky National Park with hot springs. Kayaking and fishing in Lake Baikal and hunting in the surrounding region are also available. Most tours on Lake Baikal region start from Irkutsk. The scenic Circum Baikal Railway is a good option for touring in the area.
Baikal, world's deepest lake in the middle of Siberian wilderness
During the Soviet era Siberia was the place for those who misbehaved in the eyes of those in power. Today it is the place for the few who have the time to rest their eyes on what is one of the most stunning wilderness landscapes of the world. Lake Baikal is one of the places most of us never see, but those who do usually like the sight.Nature. The scenic Lake Baikal is a World Heritage site and one of the natural wonders of the world: it is the deepest and also the largest freshwater lake in the world by volume. However, the uniqueness of Lake Baikal is not restricted to what you see above the water. Due to the isolated location of Lake Baikal in the middle of the Siberian wilderness, this stunning lake has grown to be the home of one of the world’s richest and most unique freshwater faunas. More than that, also the shores of Lake Baikal contain wildlife that can be found by those who dare to give it a try. How would it sound to meet for instance a Siberian bear weighting a good 300 kilos if you go trekking near Lake Baikal?
Cultural heritage. The shores of Lake Baikal are also a home to rich cultural heritage. A good place to explore the way of life of the Siberian people is to go to Irkutsk, one of the largest cities in Siberia, hosting some museums and city services. You can also visit lakeside resort town of Listvyanka, or the interesting Mongol region of Buryatia on the southern and eastern shores of Lake Baikal. Attractions there include the largest island in Lake Baikal, Olkhon, and the Tunkinsky National Park with hot springs. Kayaking and fishing in Lake Baikal and hunting in the surrounding region are also available. Most tours on Lake Baikal region start from Irkutsk. The scenic Circum Baikal Railway is a good option for touring in the area.
Practical information for your trip to Lake Baikal
Climate on the shores of Lake Baikal is continental, with big differences in temperatures between different seasons.
Photo: magical-world, used under Creative Commons License (By SA 2.0)
Summers on the shores of Lake Baikal are warm, but at wintertime the Siberian winter shows its severe side. In other words, winters are very cold and temperatures well below zero degrees Celsius are more of a rule than exception. One rule that goes for the weather of Lake Baikal is that there are no rules, so you should be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions.
Travelling to Lake Baikal can be done by air or by rail via the famous Trans-Siberian railroad. Most foreign visitors will need visas. Irkutsk is the nearest big city and the nearest airport offering flights to Lake Baikal region. Lake Baikal can also be accessed from the south from the Republic of Buryatia. Best hotels near Lake Baikal and also the best car rental services near Lake Baikal can be found in Irkutsk.
Services. On the shores of the lake there are only a few small towns and villages, which offer only a limited amount of services. One of the things you will find on the shores of Lake Baikal is a community of local fishermen who sell delicious smoked omul (a fish similar to salmon). This delicious dish is a must if you are planning to dine in one of restaurants near Lake Baikal. In general, Lake Baikal region is a safe place to travel to. However, watch for your belongings and never wander out into the wilderness areas without proper training or a local guide. Some Russian skills are needed for independent travel in the area.
