Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve Travel Guide

Discover the scenic beauty of Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve with our comprehensive travel guide. Read about the must-visit places, hiking routes, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips and more.


Introduction to Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

Nestled in the heart of Khabarovsk Krai, Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in the Russian Far East. With an area of 5,640 square kilometers, this nature reserve is home to magnificent landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, cultural and historical landmarks, and outdoor adventure opportunities.

List of Places to Visit in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Komsomolsk-on-Amur Regional Lore Museum - Located in the nearby city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur, this museum showcases the history and culture of the region, including exhibits on local indigenous people, wildlife, and geological formations.
  • Dzhugdzhur Memorial Complex - This complex pays tribute to the soldiers and local residents who died during the Dzhugdzhur uprising of 1929-1931 in the Far Eastern Republic. Visitors can learn about the history of the uprising and pay their respects at the memorial.

Natural Attractions of Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dzhugdzhur Range - The Dzhugdzhur Mountains stretch across the nature reserve, offering stunning views and excellent hiking opportunities.
  • Magalakskaya Tundra - This picturesque tundra is famous for its colorful fall foliage and is home to reindeer, moose, and brown bears.
  • Amur River - The Amur River flows along the eastern border of the nature reserve and provides a stunning backdrop for boating and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

  • Komsomolsky Pass - This difficult but rewarding trail offers stunning views of the Dzhugdzhur Mountains and takes approximately 3-4 days to complete.
  • Magalaksky Pass - This moderate trail takes approximately 2 days to complete and offers stunning views of the Magalakskaya Tundra along the way.

Best Things to Do in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife watching - Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve is home to over 40 species of mammals, including the Siberian tiger, Himalayan black bear, and Amur leopard. Visitors can join wildlife tours to see these animals in their natural habitats.
  • Fishing - The Amur River is home to many species of fish, including salmon, sturgeon, and catfish. Visitors can rent boats and equipment from local vendors.
  • Cultural tours - Visitors can learn about the unique culture and customs of the local indigenous people, including the Nanai and Ulch.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a local guesthouse or hotel. Day 2-3: Wildlife watching and hiking in the Dzhugdzhur Mountains. Day 4-5: Fishing and boating on the Amur River. Day 6-7: Cultural tours, museum visits, and local food and drink experiences.

Food and Drink Scene of Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked fish - The Amur River is known for its delicious smoked fish, which is a popular local delicacy.
  • Stroganina - This traditional dish is made with thinly sliced frozen fish or venison and served with soy sauce and onions.
  • Blini - These traditional Russian pancakes are served with a variety of toppings, including caviar, sour cream, and jam.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass - A traditional Russian drink made from fermented bread, sugar, and water.
  • Birch sap - A refreshing drink made from the sap of birch trees.

Where to Stay in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Taiga Lodge - This rustic lodge is located in the heart of the nature reserve and offers comfortable accommodations and access to hiking trails and wildlife tours.
  • Stolby Guesthouse - This guesthouse is located near the Dzhugdzhur Mountains and offers cozy rooms and traditional Russian meals.
  • Arsenyev House - Named after the famous Russian explorer and writer, Vladimir Arsenyev, this guesthouse is located in the nearby city of Komsomolsk-on-Amur and offers easy access to museums and historical landmarks.

What to Buy in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional Nanai and Ulch crafts, including woven baskets, birch bark containers, and carved wooden figurines.
  • Honey and herbal teas made from local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

  • Local indigenous people, including the Nanai and Ulch, have lived in the region for centuries and maintain traditional customs and rituals.
  • Visitors should show respect for the local culture and should seek permission before taking photographs or entering sacred areas.

Best Time to Visit Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

The best time to visit Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve is from May to September when the weather is mild and wildlife is active. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain and should bring warm clothing for cool evenings.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take precautions to prevent mosquito and tick bites.
  • Follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Remove or disturb wildlife or plants.
  • Enter sacred areas without permission.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

  • Visitors should take precautions to prevent mosquito and tick bites, including wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent.
  • Wildlife tours should be conducted with a licensed guide.
  • Visitors should stay on designated trails and avoid entering areas with unsafe terrain.

Health in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

  • Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations and should consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis.
  • Visitors should bring a sufficient supply of medications and should consult a travel medicine specialist before their trip.

Getting to Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

  • Khabarovsk Novy Airport is located approximately 8 hours by car from Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve.

Bus Stations Near Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

  • Komsomolsk-on-Amur Bus Station is located approximately 2 hours by car from Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve.
  • Amursk Bus Station is located approximately 4 hours by car from Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve.

Other Options

  • Visitors can rent a car or hire a taxi from the nearest city to Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve.

How to Get Around in Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve

Visitors can hire a local guide or rent a car to explore Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve. However, visitors should be aware that some areas may be inaccessible by car and may require hiking or boating.

Where to Go Next from Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake Khanka - This nearby freshwater lake is a popular destination for birdwatching and fishing.
  • Sikhote-Alin Nature Reserve - This nature reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including Siberian tigers, and offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Khabarovsk - This nearby city is the administrative center of Khabarovsk Krai and offers a wide range of cultural and historical attractions.

Conclusion

Dzhugdzhursky Nature Reserve is a beautiful and underrated destination in the Russian Far East. With its stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural and historical landmarks, it offers something for everyone. Visitors should respect the local culture and environment, take precautions for safety and health, and enjoy all that this nature reserve has to offer.