Tayshet Travel Guide

Read our extensive guide to travel Tayshet a beautiful travel destination in Siberia, Russia, and discover the best things to see, do, eat & drink, and where to stay.


Introduction to Tayshet

Tayshet, a town situated in Irkutsk Oblast, Eastern Siberia, is a picturesque destination that one shouldn’t miss while exploring Siberia. Surrounded by the majestic Sayan Mountains, Tayshet provides visitors an opportunity to experience the harmony of nature and culture. This small town, with its unique cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes, is an off-beaten path destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Tayshet

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tayshet Local History Museum: One of the must-visit places in Tayshet is the Tayshet Local History Museum, which showcases the history of the town, its culture, and traditions. The museum displays a wide range of exhibits that include antique furniture, traditional clothing, old photographs of the town, and much more.

  • St. Nicholas Church: St. Nicholas Church is an impressive Orthodox church located in the heart of Tayshet. The church is an epitome of Orthodox Russia’s architectural style and surrounded by a well-groomed park, creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony.

Natural Attractions of Tayshet: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Sayan Mountains: Tayshet’s surroundings are dominated by the Sayan Mountains, which offer a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, trekking, and mountaineering. The Sayan Mountains are home to many rivers and lakes, making it an ideal place for fishing enthusiasts.

  • Lake Bolshoye Shchuchye: Bolshoye Shchuchye is a charming lake located in Tayshet, which offers scenic views and crystal-clear water. It is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or a boat ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tayshet

  • Sangar Trail: The Sangar Trail is a popular hiking trail located in Tayshet, that offers stunning views of nature. The trail is 10 km long and provides an opportunity to see waterfalls, rivers, and wildlife.

  • Sayan Ring: For experienced hikers and bikers, the Sayan Ring is a 600 km trail that encircles the Sayan Mountains and passes through Tayshet. This trail provides breathtaking views of the mountains, rivers, and forests of Siberia.

Best Things to Do in Tayshet: Activities and Tours

  • Rafting in the Irkut River: The Irkut River is located near Tayshet, and it is a popular spot for river rafting. Tourists can enjoy thrilling rapids or calm stretches of water, depending on their skill level.

  • Visit to Tayshet Local Markets: Tayshet’s local markets are a great place to mingle with locals, buy traditional handicrafts, and sample local cuisine. The markets are known for their fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tayshet

Day Activities
1 Visit Tayshet Local History Museum and St. Nicholas Church
2 Hike the Sangar Trail
3 Visit Lake Bolshoye Shchuchye
4 Rafting in the Irkut River
5 Relax in nature’s lap at Sayan Mountains
6 Visit the Tayshet Local Markets
7 Explore the town on Bike or foot, go for a city tour

Food and Drink Scene of Tayshet

Must-Try Dishes

  • Siberian Dumplings: A local delicacy that you shouldn’t miss, Siberian dumplings, or pelmeni, are a type of pastry typically filled with minced meat and spices.

  • Kvass: Kvass is a fermented drink made from bread and is a popular and refreshing drink during the summer months.

Local Beverages

  • Vodka: Vodka is Russia’s most famous alcoholic drink, and Tayshet is no exception to the rule. Locals enjoy it with their meals, and tourists can sample it at the city’s bars and restaurants.

  • Tea: Tea is an essential part of Russian culture, and Tayshet is no exception. You can find local tea houses serving a variety of tea blends.

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

  • Guest House Tayshet: An affordable place to stay that offers comfortable rooms with excellent room service.

  • Hotel Tayshet: A modern hotel located in the heart of Tayshet, offering spacious and luxurious rooms, excellent amenities, and services.

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

  • Matryoshka Dolls: Matryoshka dolls, or Russian nesting dolls, are handcrafted traditional dolls that make for a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Tayshet

Russians are known for their warmth and hospitality, so visitors to Tayshet can expect to be treated well by locals. The Russians, particularly the Siberians, are fond of their traditions and customs, so it’s essential to respect their culture and norms while visiting the town.

Best Time to Visit Tayshet

The best time to visit Tayshet is from May to September when the weather is mild and pleasant. This period provides an opportunity for nature walks, outdoor activities, and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tayshet

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Carry cash as most of the shops and restaurants don’t have a card reader.
  • Dress according to the weather and avoid overly revealing clothing.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter.
  • Don’t speak loudly and be respectful of others’ Quietness in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tayshet

Tayshet is a safe destination, and visitors can travel throughout the town without any trouble. However, it’s essential to be cautious of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.

Health in Tayshet

Visitors to Tayshet should get their vaccinations and take precautions to avoid tick bites. If someone feels unwell while traveling, they can visit a local clinic or hospital for medical assistance.

Getting to Tayshet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tayshet

The nearest airport to Tayshet is Irkutsk International Airport, which is located 540 km away.

Bus Stations Near Tayshet

Tayshet has its bus station, which operates regular buses to cities across Siberia.

Other Options

Another way to reach Tayshet is on the Trans-Siberian Railway, which stops at Tayshet station.

How to Get Around in Tayshet

Tayshet is a small town, and it’s easy to get around on foot or bike. Taxis are also available for visitors who prefer them.

Where to Go Next from Tayshet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake Baikal: Lake Baikal, the largest freshwater lake in the world, is located 600 km from Tayshet.

  • Irkutsk: Irkutsk, a beautiful Siberian city, is located 540 km from Tayshet and is known for its historic architecture.

Conclusion

Tayshet’s unique blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage makes it a perfect destination for adventurous travelers. The town’s cultural attractions, natural beauty, and outdoor activities offer visitors a genuine Siberian experience. With our comprehensive guide, travelers will undoubtedly make the most of their time in Tayshet.

Tayshet station Tayshet station