https://nz.trip.com/moments/olkhonsky-district-47701
2024 Olkhonsky District Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)
Today's Weather
Cloudy -5-2℃
Popular Attractions
Lake Baikal
Olkhon Island
Beautiful scenery is always beautiful no matter how you shoot it
Lake Baikal.
The blue ice season is from the end of January to February, and it starts to melt on March 20.
Around New Year's Day in early January, the blue ice is still slowly accumulating, and there are initial fragments of ice on the shore, but there is no large-scale blue ice.
The blue ice is on the north line, and the bubble ice and ice caves are on the south line.
Lake Baikal is divided into the south line and the north line. The viewing points are scattered. We play one day on the north line and one day on the south line. There are no shops or restaurants around.
The north side has a fast flow rate, and the fragmented ice is pushed to the shore layer by layer to finally form blue ice.
The south side has already frozen in early January, and you can drive and hovercraft on the ice. Bubble ice needs to be watered to be seen on snowy days.
You need to live on Olkhon Island.
To get to the island, you need to take a boat and then a bus. The journey is not short, so you live on the island during this time. There is a supermarket near the accommodation, which is very convenient. But because of water protection, there is no underground drainage on the island, and there is no hot water later (there is in the morning and afternoon, take a bath early)❕❕The place where we live also has a note not to wash large items of clothing.
Travel by bus.
If you are cold, you can rest in the car. The driver is very considerate and will close the door and turn on the heater when he sees us returning to the car. The journey is very bumpy but it is not easy to get carsick.
The two-day lunch on the north and south lines is also cooked by the driver. The process is surprisingly complete and there are small desserts~!
You can take a small train in Lake Baikal in summer.
There are flowers by Lake Baikal in summer. The small train will stop operating around October, so it is awkward to go to Lake Baikal in November, with no ice or small train.
Our 💳Russia can't be swiped‼️
International 💳visa, mastercard also do not work, so friends who go to play, remember to exchange currency.
It was also this time that I knew, heavily underline
Traffic
The most cost-effective is to buy a phone card in advance, if you don't have time, family❕Check your phone for a built-in virtual card like Huawei Skytone before subscribing to a data package❕The signal is better than roaming and may be more cost-effective than roaming.
We were supposed to have wifi, but the counter before and after security check was off work and we couldn't get it. It may not be uncommon for recent flights to Irkutsk.
And the whole Irkutsk area, especially the island, the signal is not very good and unstable, one night it went straight to the point where only text messages could be sent (at this time the signal of the local card and the virtual card is better than roaming).
English is not very useful
Many times I found that English was not working, including but not limited to airports, hotels and style street stores.
This is the 'Beside the Lake Baikal' sung by Li Jian
🎈'North Line of Lake Baikal'
The Lake Baikal in early January is still in the off-season, but it has already partially frozen! The temperature is between -5 and -20 degrees~ As long as you protect your ears, there is no big problem~
Most of them are small steel cannons driving on the road~ The individual tourists and groups cost about 2300 rubles per person + 600 rubles for tickets~ We chartered a car for 14000 rubles for 4 people~
The scenery is still quite beautiful! On the way back, we encountered a beautiful sunset The sense of happiness came all at once~
TravelerWithoutBorders*22 The cheapest country to see blue ice in the world| Lake Baikal, Russia
| Lake Baikal, Russia. This is Lake Baikal in Siberia, where there is blue ice, bubble ice, morning fog... A winter fairy tale, it is the cheapest place for us to see blue ice abroad~
My route (seven days and six nights)
Day1: Irkutsk - Listvyanka
Day2: Listvyanka - Olkhon Island
Day3: North line of Olkhon Island
Day4: South line of Olkhon Island
Day5: Olkhon Island - Irkutsk
Day6: Irkutsk - South Baikal (Snow Village)
Lake Baikal: The bright eyes of East and West Siberia, breathtaking natural scenery
🌍 Tourist location: Lake Baikal, located in the southern part of East and West Siberia in Russia, is the largest freshwater lake in the world, known as the 'Bright Eyes of Siberia'.
🌿 Features: 1⃣ Beautiful natural scenery: Lake Baikal is shaped like a new moon, with clear and transparent lake water, different scenery in four seasons, spring ice cracks, summer blue waves, autumn birch golden, winter ice and snow. 2⃣ Rich historical culture: The Lake Baikal region has a unique Buryat culture and customs, was the activity area of the ancient northern ethnic groups in China, and was also the place where Su Wu herded sheep in the Han Dynasty. 3⃣ Diverse tourist activities: hiking, photography, bird watching, fishing, hot spring baths, skiing, etc.
🌞 Best travel season: May to October, during this period the climate is suitable and the scenery is beautiful.
📝 Travel guide: 1⃣ Itinerary arrangement: Arrive in Irkutsk on the first day and visit the city's attractions; go to Ust-Ordynsky on the second day to understand the life of the Buryats; visit Lake Baikal on the third day and visit Olkhon Island, Shaman Rock and other attractions; visit the Talitsy Wooden Architecture Museum on the fourth day to understand local folk customs. 2⃣ Equipment preparation: Prepare appropriate clothing according to the season, such as warm clothing, waterproof equipment, etc. 3⃣ Learn local culture: Understand the culture and etiquette of the Lake Baikal region and respect local customs.
🚀 Highlights of the trip: 1⃣ Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Lake Baikal and appreciate the unique charm of East and West Siberia. 2⃣ Experience the unique culture of the Buryats and taste local food. 3⃣ Diverse tourist activities to meet the needs of different tourists.
💡 Travel advice: 1⃣ Plan your itinerary in advance, book flights, hotels and other services to avoid high prices during peak periods or inability to book. 2⃣ Carry some cash and credit cards for use during the trip. 3⃣ Pay attention to sun protection and warmth, adjust clothing according to the season and weather changes.
🎒 Personal experience: When I was traveling in Lake Baikal, I came to Olkhon Island at dusk and watched the beautiful sunset. When the sun slowly set, the whole island was shrouded in golden afterglow, as if time stood still at that moment, making me feel the magic charm of nature.
🌟 Recommendation reason: Lake Baikal has beautiful natural scenery, rich historical culture and diverse tourist activities. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or a travel enthusiast, you can find your own fun here.
📆 Daily itinerary: 1⃣ Day 1: Arrive in Irkutsk, visit city attractions such as Red Bridge, October Square, etc. 2⃣ Day 2: Go to Ust-Ordynsky, understand the life of the Buryats, taste local food. 3⃣ Day 3: Visit Lake Baikal, visit Olkhon Island, Shaman Rock and other attractions, watch the sunset. 4⃣ Day 4: Visit the Talitsy Wooden Architecture Museum to understand local folk customs.
During my trip to Lake Baikal, I discovered a treasure photography spot - the Shaman Rock on Olkhon Island. Here, you can take beautiful sunset and starry sky photos, which will definitely make your circle of friends explode! Don't forget to bring your camera and capture the beautiful moments here! 📸✨
Camping at its finest in Irkutsk
If you are in Irkutsk, Russia and you want to have a nice little camping experience or staycation, this place is the one! It is called Bolshoe Goloustnoe and it is about three hours drive from Irkutsk center. Definitely worth the long drive, you can also go for a dip here, and may encounter people who go there for a swim in lake Baikal . Definitely worth your time and definitely worth the long ride. Cheers!
Lake Baikal
Getting There - St.Petersburg to Irkutsk
Attractions - Lake Baikal
Hotels - hotel at Khuzhir (Хужир)
Food & Restaurants - only tiny supermarket on the island, so you have to prepare your survival kit in advance
Lake Baikal is the largest lake in the world. I’m so lucky to go there! We booked the tour to go around the island by a van. Met people from China & Korea. It was a stunning place😍
An exhibition of unusual sculptures on lake Baikal
This is an exhibition of unusual sculptures on lake Baikal in Siberia.
The Incredible Ice Formations Of Lake Baikal Look Like Extraterrestrial Sculptures.
Located in the Russian region of Siberia, Lake Baikal is the world’s deepest and most voluminous freshwater lake. It contains approximately 23% of the world’s surface water!
How to get there.
If you are traveling from a nearby town (such as Irkutsk or Ulan-Ude), you can also get to Baikal lake by bus or by car.
Baikal Lake is situated along the Trans-Siberian route, so if you take that route, you absolutely have to stop at Baikal. There is no excuse if you don't, because traveling 5000 km with a train and bypassing this beautiful lake would be something you'd regret for the rest of your life!
There are two main means of transport to get to Baikal lake: by plane or by train. If you are traveling from a nearby town (such as Irkutsk or Ulan-Ude), you can also get to Baikal lake by bus or by car. Below, we will look at each of these means in more detail, but first — a short look at the main cities close to Baikal (so that you know your destination).
The Cities on Baikal
The three main points of access to Baikal are Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude cities and Slyudyanka settlement. You can get to Irkutsk and Ulan-Ude by plane, train (Trans-Siberian), or bus. Slyudyanka is a stop along the Trans-Siberian also, and you get get there by bus from Irkutsk too. There's also Baikalsk on the eastern shore of Baikal lake, but fewer trains stop there, and it is of no interest.
From Irkutsk you can either go to Lisvyanka (popular village, which is the closest place on Baikal (65 km - around 1.5 hours by bus or car)), Olkhon island (which is complete wilderness, but with all the comforts - 250 km - about 7 hours by bus or car), Port Baikal (to start the Circum Baikal railway) - next to Listvyanka, or to Slyudyanka (which is slightly further, but is a good point to explore Circum Baikal). Some river transport can take you for a day trips to one of the bays further North from Listvyanka.
Where to stay.
Plenty of hotels or guesthouses at Olkhon island.
Shipping
A lot of local souvenir shop at Olkhon island
Where to eat.
Numerous of nice restaurants at the main road of the village.
#awesomepic #urbanexplorer #bucketlistreboot #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #2023travelwish #wintergetaway #couplestrip ##tripblazers
Late Autumn at Lake Baikal | Olkhon Island North Line and Seagull Island.
🍂Welcome to Lake Baikal in late autumn
On Olkhon Island, the fun part is sitting in a "Little Cannon" and bumping along the way, slowly passing through the primeval forest and dirt roads, because the dirt roads on Olkhon Island are unruly and rough!
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▫️How to get to the island?
It takes about 6 hours. The car will first take the 25H-056 highway, and there will be a service point in the middle where you can have a meal and go to the bathroom, then turn into a small road until the ferry.
At the ferry, both the car and people will board the boat and be sent to Olkhon Island, and then continue to the hotel. Most of the hotels are in Khuzhir Village, as are the various shops.
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▫️Olkhon Island Tour - North Line
Olkhon Island tours are divided into the South Line and the North Line, and I only took the North Line. A Soviet-era off-road capable minivan "Little Cannon" will take you on a tour of Olkhon, which can be booked through the hotel or travel agency.
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The specific route is as follows:
1. Depart from the hotel and first arrive at Kharlants Bay
2. Then you will arrive at a large sandy beach with a wooden pier
3. After that, the Little Cannon will enter the national park, which is full of primeval forests and extremely difficult roads, and the bumps are unusual!
4. After passing through the forest, you will reach the first natural landscape - the Three Brothers Rock
5. After that, there is a Baikal-style picnic, which usually includes fish soup
6. Then continue to the northernmost tip of Olkhon Island - Cape Khoboy (a long walk)
7. After that, there is Love Mountain and Shaman Tree
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▫️Olkhon Island Tour - Seagull Island
The departure from Seagull Island is at sunset, and the afterglow shines on the lake, and the color changes quickly. The departure is at the Shaman Pillar in Khuzhir Village, and the speedboat first circles around Shaman Rock, and then goes to the two islands and Seagull Island (although I don't think it looks like a hat). The speedboat will stop at the edge of Seagull Island, and the captain will take out the prepared bread for us, which can be thrown into the sea to feed the seagulls. The scene of the seagulls gathering is still very shocking!
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⚠️Note
It is very cold at night and the temperature difference is large, so you need to wear more!
The road is very bumpy, so you can hold on to the handle when riding!
A comprehensive guide to an 8-day trip to Russia in the fall.
8 days in Russia, exploring a thousand years of history and unique customs, an unmissable beautiful journey, come and feel the charm of this land!
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Russia, with its long history and beautiful scenery! 🏰Red Square and the Kremlin, witness the splendor of the Tsarist era; 🌲Siberian forests and Lake Baikal, explore the grandeur of nature. Come here and experience the unique customs of the fighting nation! 🥂
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🌟Route overview:🌟
DAY1: Beijing - Irkutsk
Depart from Beijing and fly directly to Irkutsk to start your Russian journey!
DAY2: Olkhon Island
Spend the whole day exploring the mysterious Olkhon Island and experience the natural scenery and unique culture of the island.
DAY3: Cape Khoboy
Head to Cape Khoboy to enjoy the magnificent lake view and the tranquility and beauty of nature.
DAY4: Olkhon Island
Explore Olkhon Island again and discover more hidden attractions and beautiful legends.
DAY5: Kazan Cathedral
Visit the solemn Kazan Cathedral and feel the charm of Russian religious architecture.
DAY6: Kirov Square - Epiphany Cathedral
Visit Kirov Square, then head to Epiphany Cathedral to appreciate the beauty of the fusion of classical and modern.
DAY7: Taltsy Museum - Baikal Museum
Visit the Taltsy Museum to learn about local history and culture; then head to the Baikal Museum to experience the depth and mystery of the lake.
DAY8: Irkutsk [Bitomnik Base] - Beijing
End your trip at the Bitomnik Base in Irkutsk and return to Beijing with full memories.
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Travel essentials: 🧳 Going to Russia, you need to bring these!
📞 You need to prepare a phone card to make it easy to contact and not panic.
🔌 A plug adapter is a must, as Russian sockets are different.
🪪 Passports and visas are important, so you don't have to worry about crossing the border.
👔 Russia is cold in November, so wear thick clothes and down jackets.
🔋 Don't forget to bring a charger, you need to have power on your phone to take pictures and keep memories.
💊 Bring common medicines with you, so you can travel and stay healthy.
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If you like Russia, hurry up and save this guide, your trip to Russia is just one step away! 🎉
A Winter Love Letter from Siberia: The Blue Ice of Lake Baikal.
🌨️Winter is here, and life is starting to feel a little dull. It's time to take a spontaneous trip to Siberia's
✅Lake Baikal, and discover the romance and mystery hidden beneath the ice and snow!
Lake Baikal, a stunning lake located in southern Siberia, Russia, always gives people a sense of distance and tranquility. It seems that only photos can capture its beauty, but did you know? Seeing it with your own eyes is truly breathtaking!
✴️Blue ice, a miracle bestowed upon Lake Baikal by the cold. It is more exquisite and transparent than pure white snow, so pure that it intoxicates. The deep blue, the dazzling blue, makes you feel like you're in a dreamlike world of ice and snow. Here, you will forget all your worries and just want to immerse yourself in this blue ocean.
💌And the "Kiss of Lake Baikal" is a must-have ritual for viewing the blue ice. Drill a small hole in the ice, pour in different flavors of vodka, and sip it with a straw. At that moment, it feels like the whole world has come to a standstill. It's not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a cleansing of the soul.
🚗When it comes to tour groups, Xintu's self-operated tours are definitely a great choice! The entire trip is by chartered car, so you don't have to carpool like other regular tours, changing companions every day, with old, drafty, and crowded vehicles. We provide business car travel, with spacious, well-sealed, and well-maintained vehicles to ensure your long-distance travel comfort.
✴️As for accommodation, we have prepared a fairytale-like Russian-style forest cabin for you. Located in a forest scenic area, you can take a stroll along the Angara River after breakfast and admire the majestic grandeur of the never-frozen river. Here, it feels like a paradise away from the hustle and bustle of the world.
🎭Of course, in addition to outdoor activities such as ice diving, skiing, and hiking, we have also prepared a Russian opera (or musical) performance for you. In the opera house of the city's historical sites, enjoy authentic European musicals and immerse yourself in the artistic life of Russia. Remember to bring your stunning dress!
💌This winter vacation, let's go to Lake Baikal together and write our own Siberian love letter! Here, you will find the romance and mystery hidden beneath the ice and snow, and your soul will be truly healed. 🌸❄️
See the Many Forms of Water at Lake Baikal This Winter | With Travel Guide.
|With Travel Guide. I originally planned to spend 5 days at Lake Baikal. The round trip from Listvyanka to Olkhon Island takes 2 days, so I was torn between going to Olkhon Island for a deep dive into Lake Baikal or relaxing in Listvyanka.
I finally decided to spend 2 days on a round trip to Olkhon Island. The main reason was to experience the snowy scenery of Siberia on the way, including rime, ice rivers, and the frozen Lake Baikal.
🚘🚘🚘Transportation Plan:
1️⃣Beijing to Irkutsk, red-eye flight
2️⃣Irkutsk to Listvyanka, hotel paid pick-up
3️⃣Listvyanka to Khuzhir, round-trip private car with Chinese-speaking driver
4️⃣Olkhon Island South and North Lines, 2-day private car on the island
We chose to take a private car from Listvyanka to Olkhon Island with a Chinese-speaking driver. The driver was from Northeast China and came here on a student visa. He studied Russian while working as a private car driver. We left the homestay in Listvyanka at 9 am and headed to Olkhon Island. The journey took about 5–6 hours, with a stop for a Russian meal (photo 12) along the way. Remember to treat the driver to a meal!
✅✅✅Olkhon Island South and North Lines Private Car/Cost:
1️⃣The South and North Lines each take 1 day. We traveled as a couple, so the South and North Lines took 2 days in total, costing CNY 2,500.
2️⃣An additional environmental management fee of about CNY 10 per person per day is charged. The driver will pick you up at the hotel at around 9 am every day and pay the fee at the village committee before departure. The fee includes a lunch box prepared by the driver, which you can eat in the car, and hot water in a thermos (photo 17).
3️⃣See photos 4 and 16 for the car model, also known as the Russian Little Cannon.
The temperature at Lake Baikal in winter is about -20 to -40°C. Don't worry too much. Just make sure to protect yourself from the wind and avoid exposing your skin. Gloves, hats, and scarves are essential.
🚶🚶🚶My Outfit: (The following outfit is a bit cold)
❤️Top: Thermal quick-dry underwear + hoodie + long thick down jacket
❤️Bottom: Quick-dry long johns + Uniqlo fleece thermal long johns + thick sweatpants + warmers
8-Day Autumn Trip to Russia: So Beautiful You Won't Want to Leave
First time in Russia? Don't worry! This 8-day travel guide will help you explore Russia and not miss any beautiful scenery! Save it now!
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🏃 Itinerary Suggestions:
Day 1: Beijing -> Irkutsk
Head to Irkutsk and get ready for a charming trip to Russia!
Day 2: Olkhon Island
Spend the whole day on Olkhon Island and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the island.
Day 3: Cape Khoboy
Head to Cape Khoboy and explore the natural beauty and cultural charm of this charming corner.
Day 4: Olkhon Island
Visit Olkhon Island again and experience the local customs and natural scenery in depth.
Day 5: Kazan Cathedral
Visit Kazan Cathedral and feel the solemnity and sanctity of Russian Orthodox culture.
Day 6: Kirov Square -> Epiphany Cathedral
Visit Kirov Square, then head to Epiphany Cathedral to appreciate the charm of ancient Russian architecture.
Day 7: Taltsy Museum -> Baikal Museum
Visit the Taltsy Museum and Baikal Museum to learn about the local history, culture, and natural scenery.
Day 8: Irkutsk [Bitomnik Base] -> Beijing
End your pleasant journey and return to Beijing from Irkutsk with unforgettable memories!
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Travel Tips:
🍽️ Food: Don't miss Russian blini, caviar, and borscht. They have unique flavors!
📒 Visa Information: You need a visa to travel to Russia. Prepare the documents in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
💵 Exchange Rate: Russia uses the ruble. Learn about the exchange rate with the RMB in advance for easy conversion and spending.
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A trip to Russia is not just about the scenery, but also a spiritual baptism. We look forward to your visit to this magical land and taking away your unique story. 🌍✨
Russia.
Russia is a country with a rich history and culture, unique natural scenery, and charming cities. No matter what season you visit, you can experience its unique Eastern European style.
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Spring (Apr–May)
🌸 Spring is in the air in Russia, a transition season from cold to vibrant.
☑️ Recommended attractions
📍Red Square
A symbol of Russian culture and a witness to major historical events. The tulip fields around Red Square are particularly charming in spring, making it a great place for photos and walks.
📍Lake Baikal
The ice and snow on Lake Baikal have just melted, and there are fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the beautiful scenery to the fullest. The lake is a clear blue, and you don't need any filters.
▪️PS: You can also attend Victory Day celebrations from late April to early May, and see the spectacular military parade and fireworks show.
The Promise of Lake Baikal.
Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, Russia, is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, and one of the most unforgettable natural wonders I have ever seen. The lake is crystal clear, and from a distance, the lake surface is like a huge mirror, reflecting the blue sky and the surrounding mountains, the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful.
The beach by the lake is quiet and beautiful. The morning mist floats on the lake, as if in a fairyland. Whether it is summer or winter, Lake Baikal has its unique charm. In summer, the lake is blue and clear, suitable for hiking, boating, or strolling among the wooden houses in the lakeside town. In winter, the lake is completely frozen, like a huge ice crystal world. Ice cave exploration and ice skating are must-play projects here in winter.
In Lake Baikal, it seems to be far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and feel the tranquility and magnificence of nature. It is not only a paradise for adventurers, but also a sanctuary for travelers. Every time I leave, I bring back unforgettable memories.
Experience the ultimate blue in Siberia.
🇷🇺The cold in Siberia is like a refrigerator in Beijing's summer and an ice cellar in winter.
🥘Russian meals are quite special and you may not be used to them.
🧊Lake Baikal is beautiful and blue.
⛱️Self-driving is not recommended as the roads are difficult to navigate.
🎯Travel Tips
🗺️Itinerary:
Day [One]: Arrive in Irkutsk and visit city attractions such as the Red Bridge and October Square.
Day [Two]: Go to Ust-Orda and learn about the life of the Buryats and taste local food.
Day [Three]: Visit Lake Baikal and attractions such as Olkhon Island and Shaman Rock, and watch the sunset.
Day [Four]: Visit the Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture and learn about local folk customs.
🎒Equipment
Prepare clothing according to the season, such as warm clothing and waterproof equipment.
📖Local Culture
Learn about the culture and etiquette of the Lake Baikal area and respect local customs.
🚗Highlights
[One]Enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Lake Baikal and experience the unique charm of Eastern and Western Siberia.
[Two]Experience the unique culture of the Buryats and taste local food.
[Three]A variety of tourist activities to meet the needs of different tourists.
🎯Travel Advice
[One]Plan your itinerary in advance and book services such as flights and hotels to avoid high prices or unavailability during peak periods.
[Two]Carry some cash and credit cards for use during the trip.
[Three]Pay attention to sun protection and warmth, and adjust clothing according to the season and weather changes.
📷Lake Baikal has beautiful natural scenery, rich history and culture, and a variety of tourist activities. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or a travel enthusiast, you can find your own fun here.
Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, located in Siberia, Russia. It reaches a depth of about 1,642 meters (5,387 feet) and is estimated to be around 25 million years old. The lake contains around 20% of the world's unfrozen freshwater and is home to unique wildlife, including the endemic Baikal seal and over 1,700 species of plants and animals. Baikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and cultural significance to local communities. It also plays a vital role in scientific research and conservation efforts.
One of the top 10 landscapes in the world | Lake Baikal.
⚗️A song by Li Jian, "On the Shores of Lake Baikal," has made people aware of this clear and mysterious "Siberian Pearl" 🔮
🌊The deepest lake in the world, every year in January, the temperature of minus 20 degrees Celsius freezes the blue lake water into pure light blue, forming a large area of rare blue ice landscape, which can take National Geographic-level photos!
💠Under the frozen lake surface, you can also see the unique bubble ice, white bubbles of different sizes gushing up from the bottom of the lake, frozen in the blue ice, layered, crystal clear!
❄️Here you can also have fun in the ice and snow, dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice hovercraft, ice fishing... all the fun snow and ice entertainment projects can be experienced here.
💎In fact, blue ice itself is not blue, but thanks to the extremely clear water quality of Lake Baikal, the transparency is also very high after the winter ice seal, after the sun shines, the shorter wavelength blue light wave is "left" in the huge ice block, thus forming a blue ice spectacle.
🚗Transportation strategy:
[One]Airplane: Beijing direct flight to Irkutsk, then take a car to Lake Baikal
[Two]Beijing to K3 International Train—Irkutsk—Lake Baikal
📌Tips:
[One]The blue ice season on Lake Baikal is from January to February, with temperatures reaching -40°C. In winter, the lake surface can be driven on
[Two]It is recommended to exchange some small denomination rubles (such as 100 rubles) in the Lake Baikal area, otherwise it is difficult to find change in some small towns
[Three]There are very few public toilets, and there are long queues for the only simple toilets on the ice
[Four]Currently, it is not possible to rent a car in Russia with a Chinese driver's license
[Five]Russian food may not be used to eating, you can consider bringing your own food
Baikal on the Nord side
Today I visited Olkhon Island and drove along its northern part to Cape Khoboy, where there is a view of both the small sea and the large one. The views are magnificent, the waters seem endless. There are several species of animals on the island, for example lynx... but I didn’t come across any, maybe I’ll see anything another time. And for lovers of luxury atoms on Lake Baikal, I recommend it. I plus fly by in a car where it bounces on every bump
#baikal
Lake Baikal is gone, let's get straight to the guide without further ado
Lake Baikal, as a famous tourist destination in Russia, attracts many tourists with its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Here is a detailed travel guide to Lake Baikal, including the best travel time, transportation methods, tourist attractions, accommodation, and food recommendations.
1. Best Travel Time
The best time to visit Lake Baikal is in the **summer**, from June to September. During this period, the lake water is warm and clear, suitable for swimming and water activities. At the same time, the weather in summer is relatively warm, suitable for outdoor adventures and hiking.
2. Transportation Methods
1. Airplane
The most convenient way to travel from China to Lake Baikal is to take a flight to Irkutsk. Currently, there are direct flights from several domestic cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Harbin to Irkutsk, with a flight time of about 3 to 5 hours and ticket prices ranging from 2000 to 4000 RMB.
2. Train
There are direct trains from cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg to Irkutsk. Train travel is usually more comfortable and allows you to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Siberia. In addition, you can also choose to take international trains, such as the K3 train from Beijing, which passes through Mongolia to Irkutsk.
3. Self-driving
Self-driving is a good option for touring the areas around Lake Baikal, offering more freedom and convenience. However, it is important to use GPS and other navigation tools and to understand the road conditions in advance.
4. From Irkutsk to Lake Baikal
Taking a bus is a common choice, with several buses departing daily to the town of Listvyanka on the shores of Lake Baikal, a journey of about 2 hours with a ticket price of about 200 rubles (about 20 RMB). Alternatively, you can choose to hire a car, with costs depending on the type of vehicle and the number of people.
3. Tourist Attractions
1. Listvyanka Town
Located on the northwest shore of Lake Baikal, it is the most popular resort destination on Lake Baikal. Visitors can enjoy the natural scenery, fish at the source of the Angara River, and even dive. In addition, the Lake Baikal Museum is also located in this town, showcasing the ecosystem and historical features of Lake Baikal.
2. Olkhon Island
The largest island in Lake Baikal, preserving the traditional Buryat culture and featuring many natural attractions. Visitors can visit the Sagan-Khushun rocks, hike or cycle to explore the island's natural scenery.
3. Garnet Beach (Red Sand)
Located on the southern shore of Lake Baikal, it is named for its unusual wine-red sand. It is a relaxing destination where you can stroll along the water's edge, and the unique wine-red sand is also great for photography.
4. Khakusy Hot Springs
One of the most interesting attractions in the northern part of Lake Baikal, the hot spring water temperature can reach 46 degrees Celsius, with low mineralization, beneficial for skin care and treating endocrine diseases.
4. Accommodation Recommendations
There are various accommodation options around Lake Baikal, including hotels and guesthouses. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance during the peak season to avoid the situation of having no place to stay. Here are some accommodation recommendations:
* **Baikal Manor**: Located in the Irkutsk region of Irkutsk, offering a comfortable accommodation environment.
* **Baikal Seasons Hotel**: Located on the shores of Lake Baikal, convenient for visitors to enjoy the lake view.
5. Food Recommendations
The cuisine around Lake Baikal is mainly Russian, characterized by cold dishes, sour soup, bread, and alcohol. Here are some food recommendations:
* **Grilled Fish (Shashlik)**: Known for its large size, with one skewer of meat weighing a pound, enough to fill you up.
* **Baikal Whitefish**: Fresh smoked whitefish can be found at the market near the Listvyanka pier.
* **Russian Cuisine**: Featuring a wide selection of ingredients, meticulous preparation and processing, with rich flavors. Recommended dishes include pilaf, vodka, and Russian chocolate.
6. Precautions
1. **Variable Climate**: The climate in the Lake Baikal area is variable, with large temperature differences between morning and evening. It is recommended to bring enough clothing to cope with different weather conditions.
2. **Environmental Protection**: During your visit, please respect local culture and customs, pay attention to environmental protection, and do not litter.
3. **Booking Flights and Hotels**: Summer is the peak tourist season for Lake Baikal, with many tourists. It is recommended to book flights and hotels in advance.
I hope this travel guide to Lake Baikal can help you with your trip. Have a pleasant journey!
A Journey to the Distant Lake Baikal
For New Year's Eve 2019, I chose to visit the long-awaited Lake Baikal.
Through the internet, I found travel companions, and together we spent 4 days at Lake Baikal and 2 days in Irkutsk. It was an unforgettable New Year's trip, experiencing the beautiful winter scenery of Lake Baikal and enjoying the company of like-minded friends.
#trip
3D2N Trip to the world's largest freshwater lake
Visiting the stunning Lake Baikal in the winter is a truly magical experience.
Getting there can be a bit of an adventure, as the roads are often covered in snow and ice. Many travelers opt to take the famous Trans-Siberian Railway, which offers stunning views of the frozen lake along the way.
Once you arrive, accommodation options range from cozy guesthouses to more luxurious lakeside resorts.
Many hotels offer exciting activities like ice skating, ice fishing, and dog sledding right on the frozen lake.
One of the most unique experiences is going on a picnic on the thick ice of Lake Baikal itself. Locals set up little tents and tables on the solid ice, grilling fresh fish and sipping hot tea.
The food in this region is hearty and delicious, featuring plenty of local fish, meat, and produce. Dishes like borscht, pelmeni dumplings, and stroganoff are common and will warm you up after a day spent outdoors.
Despite the cold temperatures, the breathtaking scenery of the world's largest freshwater lake in winter makes it a truly unforgettable destination. Bring warm layers and be prepared for an adventure!
#lakebaikal #siberia
During the Chinese New Year, I took a group of photos of the blue ice of Lake Baikal, braving the severe cold of minus 20 degrees Celsius to serve every one of my guests!
Take the most beautiful picture of you!
During the Chinese New Year, I took a group of photos of the blue ice of Lake Baikal, braving the severe cold of minus 20 degrees Celsius to serve every one of my guests!
Take the most beautiful picture of you!
Li Jian didn't lie to me! It's so beautiful!
For many people who know about Lake Baikal, the blue ice in winter is stunning, and few people go there in summer.
But Lake Baikal in summer really has a different kind of scenery, after all, it is the freshwater lake with the largest storage capacity in the world, and there are beautiful scenes in all four seasons🌴
I first learned about Lake Baikal through the songs of musician Li Jian🎶. Since then, its beauty has been swirling in my mind, until today, I can finally make a choice.
💦Please check the best travel times for Lake Baikal
7️⃣—8️⃣ months: The average temperature is only 17—21 degrees, so compared to the 40°+ in China, you won't get sunburned or overheated.
9️⃣—🔟 months: At this time, many places have already entered autumn, and Lake Baikal is no exception. Whether it's forests, blue skies, white clouds, or snow-capped mountains, there's a rich atmosphere.
1️⃣—2️⃣ months: The lake surface is already frozen❄️, which means that Lake Baikal is about to enter a snowy wonderland.
3️⃣—5️⃣ months: This is the best time for ice road crossing, you must seize it, it only happens once a year, it's very spectacular, and you must have all kinds of photography🌌 equipment ready, dress warmly, and take care of yourself🧣
📆Please check the summer itinerary for Lake Baikal (group tour)
D1️⃣: Various cities → Irkutsk
D2️⃣: Irkutsk → Listvyanka → Play in Irkutsk → Barbecue party by the lake in Listvyanka
D3️⃣: Lake Baikal (vintage train ride around the lake)
D4️⃣: Listvyanka (beach volleyball, cycling competition) → Lake Baikal Museum → Local shopping
D5️⃣: Listvyanka → Irkutsk → Return home
❇️Please check the must-visit attractions (at Lake Baikal you can not only see the lake, but also the following attractions are not to be missed)
🔺Vintage train around the city: The sea on one side and the mountains on the other, a unique experience
🔺Taltsy Museum: Do you know what the houses here are built of? If not, go and see
🔺Kazan Mother of God Church: For those who believe in Eastern Orthodoxy, this is a place of faith, and the entrance is free
🔺Angara River: Rivers are part of the city, but here, the Angara River is just a romantic extension, a place for couples to take photos, and for the elderly to enjoy the sunset
🔺Listvyanka: A town with character, even a small dog has the experience of pulling a sled on ice
🔺Lake Baikal Museum: Mainly a series of introductions to aquatic life, well worth a visit
🕹️Review and Summary: The summer Lake Baikal is really the scenery in Li Jian's songs, beautiful and mysterious, intoxicated by the spring breeze, with lush green grass
Lake Baikal, Irkutsk, turn the places you want to go into the road under your feet
After the Spring Festival, set off for Irkutsk, go to Lake Baikal to see the blue ice
⛪️ Kazan Cathedral is a very photogenic and devout place, where I encountered a family baptizing their newborn baby. Under the sunlight with the Tyndall effect, worries seemed to be washed away;
Lake Baikal On the way to Lake Baikal, I experienced the icy and snowy land of Siberia. With poor signal, it was the perfect time to clear my mind. The crystal-clear blue ice is a gift from nature.
If you're lucky, the aurora appears in the early morning.
Irkutsk·Gorod Irkutsk Lake Baikal·Russia Olkhon Island
Check in at Lake Baikal
On the shore of Lake Baikal, embrace the stunning beauty of nature, feel the fresh air and unparalleled tranquility. Here, the magnificent natural scenery and rich ecological environment will make you linger. Come here to enjoy the gifts of nature.
I saw the blue ice in Lake Baikal!!!
🎈'There is blue ice in Lake Baikal!'
Breaking news! There is blue ice next to Shaman Rock 🧊 It's as clear and transparent as a gem💎~
Here's a reference for the travel cost When the four of us came, we chartered a car~ From Irkutsk to the island homestay was 2100rmb (including boat tickets, the boat was also chartered 🚢)
On the return journey, the hotel helped to book car tickets, each person 1800 rubles + boat tickets (which have risen to 1000 rubles) - directly sent to the Irkutsk hotel
Around mid-January, Lake Baikal gradually enters the peak season! The feeling of minus 20 degrees will not feel very cold! But the wind is huge!!
Suggestions: Buy gloves that can open fingers🧤Otherwise, if you expose your entire hand to take pictures, you can't stand it for more than 5 seconds, and the gloves are easily blown away Buy down jackets with furry hats! Because whether you wear a hat or not, you will eventually put on the hood of the down jacket~ A hat with fur looks better! My friends booked rubles at 1:8 in China, and I exchanged them with local Chinese drivers at 1:11~ It's difficult to withdraw cash from local Russian ATMs Prepare cash in advance!
TravelerWithoutBorders*22 Lake Baikal in Russia! Refresh your shock baseline!
✈️Blue sky and clear sea, quiet forest. Whenever I close my eyes, I can clearly recall the trip to Lake Baikal in Russia. It's not an ordinary lake, it has a heart-moving beauty and mystery, like a dream. If you are looking for a different journey, then this 8-day and 6-night trip to Lake Baikal in Russia is definitely worth having.
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Click on the Ctrip business card below 👇 to travel worry-free! Book now!
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🌟First stop: Viewing Stone
This is a quite unusual stone. When you come to the Viewing Stone, the charming lake view of Lake Baikal will be presented in front of you, as if the camera in your hand has become magical.
🚂Lake Baikal Circum-Baikal Train
Take the Circum-Baikal train to feel the beauty of the lake and enjoy the highlights of the trip. The Lake Baikal outside the window is like a rich and colorful scroll, which makes people linger.
🏛️Lake Baikal Museum
The Lake Baikal Museum is a museum that comprehensively displays the nature, culture, and history of Lake Baikal, allowing you to understand Lake Baikal more deeply and appreciate its unique charm.
🏔️Eastland Ski Resort
In this forest ski resort, you can enjoy the fun of ice and snow, and have the opportunity to appreciate the mountains and lakes while skiing.
🛥️Lake Baikal Cruise
The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the cruise on the lake, feeling the vastness and depth of Lake Baikal, as if you are in a poem and painting.
😋Russian Style Garden Family Meal
There is also a Russian-style garden family meal here, satisfying your taste buds with rich Russian food. Try bread dipped in salt and experience exotic customs.
A journey, endless scenery, endless stories. This is a journey into the heart lake, it can refresh your understanding of the world, touch your shock baseline. Waiting for you, at Lake Baikal in Russia.🎈
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