Buryatia Travel Guide

Discover the wonders of Buryatia with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring must-see attractions, best hiking and biking trails, local food and culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous destination, look no further than Buryatia. Located in Eastern Siberia, this region is characterized by its stunning natural scenery, diverse culture, and rich history. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, there is something for everyone in Buryatia. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best places to visit, things to do, and food to try in this fascinating destination.

Introduction to Buryatia

Bordering Mongolia to the south, Buryatia is a federal subject of Russia encompassing a vast area of over 350,000 square kilometers. Its diverse landscape includes majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and scenic valleys, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The culture of Buryatia is equally fascinating, with a unique blend of Mongolian, Russian, and Shamanic influences. The capital of Buryatia is Ulan-Ude, a vibrant city famous for its Buddhist temples and traditional Russian architecture.

List of Places to Visit in Buryatia

From ancient monasteries to breathtaking natural wonders, Buryatia offers a wide range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-see places to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ivolginsky Datsan: This is the center of Buddhism in Russia, located just outside of Ulan-Ude. The complex includes a monastery, a museum, and a stupa, and is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Buryat people.
  • Old Believer’s Village: Located on the shore of Lake Baikal, this is a living museum where visitors can learn about the unique customs and traditions of the Old Believers, a Russian sect that broke away from the Orthodox Church in the 17th century.
  • Ethnographic Museum: Located in Ulan-Ude, this museum showcases the traditional lifestyles and customs of the indigenous peoples of Buryatia.

Natural Attractions of Buryatia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Baikal: The jewel of Siberia, Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can take boat tours, hike along the shoreline, or simply relax on the beach and soak in the stunning scenery.
  • Tunka Valley: This picturesque valley is famous for its hot springs, pristine rivers, and scenic mountains. Visitors can go hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking in this beautiful area.
  • Barguzin Nature Reserve: One of the largest nature reserves in Russia, Barguzin is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including brown bears, elk, and sable. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the stunning landscapes and observe the wildlife in their natural habitats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buryatia

For those who love hiking and biking, Buryatia is a dream come true. The region boasts some of the best hiking and biking routes in the world, with spectacular views of the mountains, forests, and lakes. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Great Baikal Trail: This is a network of hiking and biking trails that spans over 2,500 kilometers around Lake Baikal. Visitors can choose from a variety of routes, depending on their interests and fitness level.
  • Tunka Valley Trail: This is a picturesque hiking and mountain biking trail that winds through scenic valleys and forests in the Tunka Valley.
  • Barguzin Valley Trail: This is a challenging hiking trail that leads through the stunning Barguzin Valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

Best Things to Do in Buryatia: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Buryatia offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the best things to do include:

  • boat tours on Lake Baikal
  • horseback riding in the Tunka Valley
  • skiing and snowboarding in the winter months
  • visiting traditional Buryat villages and learning about their culture and customs
  • attending festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Baikal Ice Marathon and the Shamanic Festival.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buryatia

Here is an example itinerary for a week-long trip to Buryatia:

Day Activity
1 Explore Ulan-Ude, visit Ivolginsky Datsan and the Ethnographic Museum
2 Take a boat tour of Lake Baikal
3 Hike the Great Baikal Trail
4 Visit the Old Believer’s Village
5 Enjoy the hot springs in the Tunka Valley
6 Go skiing or snowboarding at Baikal Ski Resort
7 Attend a shamanic ritual and learn about Buryat culture

Food and Drink Scene of Buryatia

No trip to Buryatia is complete without trying the local cuisine. The region is famous for its hearty meat dishes and delicious dairy products. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buuzy: Steamed dumplings filled with meat and onions
  • Pozy: Meat-filled steamed buns
  • Buryat shorpa: A hearty meat and vegetable soup
  • Khuushuur: Fried meat pies

Local Beverages

  • Buryat tea: A unique blend of tea with milk, butter, and salt
  • Omul fish soup: A savory fish soup made with the local omul fish
  • Buryat beer: A delicious local brew made using traditional brewing methods

Where to Stay in Buryatia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Buryatia offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Hotel Baikal Plaza: A modern hotel in the heart of Ulan-Ude, with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • U Ozera Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse located on the shore of Lake Baikal, offering comfortable rooms and breathtaking views.
  • Olkhon Island Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located on Olkhon Island, offering dorm rooms and private rooms at affordable prices.

What to Buy in Buryatia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking for unique souvenirs and local products, Buryatia offers plenty of options. Some of the best things to buy include:

  • Traditional Buryat clothing and accessories, such as fur hats and boots
  • Handmade crafts and souvenirs, such as wooden boxes and dolls
  • Local food products, such as smoked fish and wild berry jams

Local Culture and Customs of Buryatia

Buryat culture is rich and diverse, with a unique blend of Mongolian, Russian, and Shamanic influences. Some of the most important customs and traditions include:

  • Buddhism: Buryatia is home to the largest Buddhist population in Russia, and visitors can visit monasteries and temples throughout the region.
  • Traditional music and dance: Buryatia is famous for its beautiful traditional music and dance, which is performed at festivals and events throughout the year.
  • Shamanism: Shamanic practices and beliefs are still a significant part of Buryat culture, and visitors can learn about these customs by attending shamanic rituals and ceremonies.

Best Time to Visit Buryatia

Buryatia can be visited year-round, but the best time to go depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months (June-August) are ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning natural surroundings. The winter months (December-February) offer excellent skiing opportunities and a chance to experience the dramatic winter landscape.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buryatia

When visiting Buryatia, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
  • Learn some basic Russian phrases before your trip, as English is not widely spoken.
  • Be open to learning about Buryat customs and traditions, and show respect for the local culture.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their permission.
  • Wear shoes inside temples or other religious sites.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Buryatia is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your trip:

Safety in Buryatia

  • Follow local laws and customs, and be aware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid wandering alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
  • Keep your valuables in a safe place and be wary of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in Buryatia

  • Make sure to drink bottled water to avoid getting sick from the local tap water.
  • Apply insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites and the risk of tick-borne diseases.
  • Pack warm clothing and gear for cold weather, especially if you plan to do outdoor activities.

Getting to Buryatia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Buryatia is easily accessible by air, train, or bus. Here are some of the best ways to get there:

Airports Near Buryatia

  • Ulan-Ude International Airport: Located just outside of Ulan-Ude, this airport offers flights to several cities in Russia and Asia.
  • Irkutsk International Airport: Located about 4 hours away from Ulan-Ude by train or bus, this airport offers flights to several major cities in Russia and Asia.

Bus Stations Near Buryatia

  • Ulan-Ude Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Ulan-Ude, with buses to several cities in Russia and Mongolia.
  • Irkutsk Bus Station: Located in Irkutsk, this bus station offers connections to several cities in Russia and Mongolia.

Other Options

  • Train: There are several train stations in Buryatia, with connections to major cities in Russia and Asia.
  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car in Ulan-Ude or Irkutsk to explore the region on their own.

How to Get Around in Buryatia

The best way to get around Buryatia is by car, especially if you want to explore the region’s stunning natural scenery. However, public transportation is also available, including buses and trains. Taxis and private drivers are also an option for those who prefer a more convenient and flexible mode of transportation.

Where to Go Next from Buryatia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your trip, there are several nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • Mongolia: Located just south of Buryatia, Mongolia offers a fascinating blend of history and culture, with stunning natural scenery and traditional nomadic lifestyles.
  • Irkutsk: This historic city is located about 4 hours away from Ulan-Ude by train or bus and is famous for its traditional Russian architecture and its proximity to Lake Baikal.
  • Trans-Siberian Railway: This legendary train journey offers a chance to explore the vast and diverse landscape of Russia, from the bustling cities to the remote wilderness.

Conclusion

Buryatia is truly a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to hike through the stunning mountain ranges, explore the rich history and culture of the region, or simply relax and enjoy the local food and drink, Buryatia has something for everyone. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to explore this fascinating destination and discover all that it has to offer.

The Buryatia steppe, south of Ulan Ude The Buryatia steppe, south of Ulan Ude


    Arshan
    Orlik
    Severobaikalsk
    Ulan Ude