Severobaikalsk Travel Guide

Discover the cultural, natural, and adventurous side of Severobaikalsk with this detailed travel guide. Plan your itinerary, find the best places to stay, eat, and shop, and learn about local customs and traditions.


Introduction to Severobaikalsk

Located in the Buryatia region of Eastern Siberia, Russia, Severobaikalsk is a small town nestled on the northern shores of Lake Baikal. The town is surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Siberia’s mountain ranges and has a rich cultural heritage. Severobaikalsk is an emerging destination for tourists seeking to explore the Siberian wilderness and immerse themselves in the local culture. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you through all the must-visit attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Severobaikalsk

Severobaikalsk has a lot to offer in terms of attractions and sightseeing. Here is a list of the must-visit places in the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Baikal Museum: Discover the history, culture, and biodiversity of Lake Baikal through the exhibits and displays at this museum.
  • Buryat Ethnographic Museum: This museum showcases the cultural heritage of the native Buryat people through art, clothing, tools, and other artifacts.
  • Religious Monuments: Several churches and Buddhist temples in the town represent the religious diversity of the region.

Natural Attractions of Severobaikalsk: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Baikal: The town’s proximity to the northern shores of Lake Baikal makes it an ideal location for water sports and activities like swimming, fishing, kayaking, and boating.
  • Khorinskaya Mountain Range: The nearby mountain range is a hiking and camping paradise, with several scenic trails and camping spots that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Mud Volcanoes: The mud volcanoes in the area are a unique natural phenomenon where a mixture of gas and mud is expelled from the ground creating continuous bubbling that resembles that of a volcano.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Severobaikalsk

Severobaikalsk is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the region’s stunning natural beauty on foot or on a bike. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes to try:

  • Khorinskaya Mountain Range: Trek through this picturesque mountain range and immerse yourself in the Siberian wilderness.
  • Baikal-Amur Mainline Railway (BAM): This scenic railway route offers some of the best views of the region and runs along the shores of Lake Baikal.
  • Circum-Baikal Railway: Hike through this historic railway, which was built in the early 20th century, and explore the abandoned train stations and tunnels dotting the route.

Best Things to Do in Severobaikalsk: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to try in the town. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Cultural Tours: These tours take you through the town’s historic and cultural landmarks, providing a glimpse into the local customs and traditions.
  • Local Festivals: The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating traditions, practices, and folk arts.
  • Food Tours: Discover the unique flavors of the local cuisine on a food tour, sampling traditional dishes and drinks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Severobaikalsk

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Severobaikalsk:

Day Activities
1 Baikal Museum, Buryat Ethnographic Museum, Lake Baikal swim
2 Khorinskaya Mountain Range Hike
3 Mud Volcanoes, Cultural Tour
4 Circum-Baikal Railway Hike
5 Food Tour, Local Festivals
6 BAM Railway Tour
7 Relaxation day, Shopping for Souvenirs

Food and Drink Scene of Severobaikalsk

Severobaikalsk’s food scene is rich in flavor, history, and culture. Here’s what to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pozy: A popular dish in the region, pozy is a steamed dumpling filled with meat and vegetables.
  • Omul: A local fish that’s smoked and served with a side of potatoes and vegetables.
  • Gulia: A Buryat soup made with lamb and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Buryatian Tea: A type of tea unique to the region that’s made from herbs and spices, normally drunk after a meal.
  • Tarkhun: A bright green carbonated drink made with tarragon, it’s a refreshing local favorite.

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

Severobaikalsk offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

  • Gostiny Dvor Hotel: Located near the town center, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
  • Good-Night Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is ideal for backpackers and offers bunk beds and a shared kitchen.
  • Guesthouse Baikalsky Peski: This cozy guesthouse is located beside Lake Baikal and provides picturesque views and on-site food and drink options.

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

Severobaikalsk offers unique souvenirs and gifts that showcase the region’s culture and heritage. Here are some of the things to buy:

  • Buryatian Clothing: Traditional Buryatian dresses, boots, and headwear are a must-buy for those interested in traditional fashion.
  • Baikal Honey: This local honey is made from wildflowers growing in the region and is reputed to have health benefits.
  • Sagan Dali: A local herb that’s used in traditional medicine, it’s available as tea, extract, or powder in local stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Severobaikalsk

Severobaikalsk is home to the Buryat people, an indigenous group that’s been living in the region for millennia. The town’s culture and traditions are closely linked to the natural environment and are reflected in the local art, music, dance, and cuisine. Some of the prominent cultural festivals celebrated in the town include:

  • Sagaalgan: A traditional new year celebration that marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring.
  • Naadan: A festival of folk arts and crafts that showcases the region’s unique handicrafts, music, and dance.
  • Shamansky Festival: A celebration of the Buryatian Shamanism practiced in the region.

Best Time to Visit Severobaikalsk

The best time to visit Severobaikalsk is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and the flora and fauna are in full bloom. This is also the best time for water sports and outdoor activities. Winter can be harsh, with sub-zero temperatures and heavy snowfall, making it difficult to travel.

Do’s and Don’ts of Severobaikalsk

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Severobaikalsk:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities you plan to participate in.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious monuments and practices.
  • Litter in public places or natural surroundings.
  • Trespass private property.

Safety and Health

Severobaikalsk is generally a safe place for tourists, but it’s always better to take precautions. Here are some tips to ensure your safety and health while visiting the town:

Safety in Severobaikalsk

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  • Avoid walking alone late at night.
  • Stay away from unmarked and isolated areas.

Health in Severobaikalsk

  • Carry necessary medication and documents.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
  • Follow the local customs and practices to avoid culture shock.

Getting to Severobaikalsk: Transportation Options and Logistics

Severobaikalsk is not well-connected by air, but there are several other transportation options available to reach the town.

Airports Near Severobaikalsk

  • Ulankhat Airport: This small airport is located around 68km north of the town and offers regional flights to other parts of Siberia.

Bus Stations Near Severobaikalsk

  • Severobaikalsk Bus Station: Located in the town center, this bus station provides local and regional transportation options.

Other Options

  • Railways: The Trans-Siberian railway connects Severobaikalsk with other cities in Russia and beyond.
  • Private Cars and Taxis: Private cars and taxis are available for hire in the town and offer a more convenient and flexible transportation option.

How to Get Around in Severobaikalsk

The town is small and easily navigable on foot, but there are other transportation options available, including:

  • Buses: The town has a local bus service that connects different parts of the town.
  • Taxis: Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or through an app.
  • Private Cars: Private cars and rented cars are an excellent option for those who want to explore the surrounding area on their own.

Where to Go Next from Severobaikalsk: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Severobaikalsk is an excellent base for exploring other parts of the Buryatia region. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions to take:

  • Ulan Ude: The capital of Buryatia, this city is rich in culture and history, with several prominent landmarks and museums.
  • Olkhon Island: The largest island in Lake Baikal, Olkhon offers several outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and swimming.
  • Tunka Valley: This scenic valley is a natural wonderland, with hot springs, waterfalls, and a diverse ecosystem of plants and animals.

Conclusion

Severobaikalsk is a hidden gem in Siberia that offers a unique combination of culture, history, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to the town with ease, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the must-visit attractions, activities, and tours. Whether you’re a nature lover, a cultural enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Severobaikalsk has something for everyone.

The center of the city The center of the city Severobaikalsk Station Severobaikalsk Station