Novaya Chara Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Novaya Chara with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Novaya Chara, Siberia

Located in Zabaykalsky Krai, in Eastern Siberia, Novaya Chara is a small town surrounded by natural beauty. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Novaya Chara, from the best places to visit and things to do, to where to stay and eat.

Introduction to Novaya Chara

Novaya Chara is a town located in the Transbaikal region of Eastern Siberia, in Russia. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including forests, mountains, and rivers. The town has a population of around 5,000 people and has a rich cultural history.

List of Places to Visit in Novaya Chara

Novaya Chara has a variety of attractions to visit, from museums and historical sites to natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit places in Novaya Chara:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Novaya Chara Local Lore Museum: This museum showcases the local culture and history of Novaya Chara, including exhibits on the indigenous people of the region.

  2. St. Nicholas Cathedral: This beautiful 19th-century Orthodox cathedral is located in the town center and is a great example of Russian architecture.

Natural Attractions of Novaya Chara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Chara River: The Chara River runs through Novaya Chara and is a great spot for fishing, kayaking, and rafting.

  2. Zabaikalsky National Park: Located a short drive from Novaya Chara, this national park is known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife, including the Siberian tiger.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Novaya Chara

Hiking and biking are great ways to explore the natural beauty of Novaya Chara. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Transbaikal Railway Trail: This 26-kilometer trail follows the Transbaikal Railway and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

  • Chara River Trail: This 10-kilometer trail follows the Chara River and is a great spot for fishing and birdwatching.

Best Things to Do in Novaya Chara: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Novaya Chara. Here are some of the best:

  • Fishing Tour: Take a tour of the Chara River with a local guide and try your hand at catching some of the local fish, such as salmon and trout.

  • Siberian Tiger Tracking: Take a guided tour of Zabaikalsky National Park and try to spot the elusive Siberian tiger in its natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Novaya Chara

Day 1: Explore Novaya Chara and visit St. Nicholas Cathedral

Day 2: Take a fishing tour of the Chara River

Day 3: Hike the Transbaikal Railway Trail

Day 4: Visit Zabaikalsky National Park and go tiger tracking

Day 5: Enjoy a bike ride along the Chara River Trail

Day 6: Visit the Novaya Chara Local Lore Museum

Day 7: Relax and take in the stunning natural scenery of Novaya Chara

Food and Drink Scene of Novaya Chara

When it comes to food and drink, Novaya Chara has some local specialties worth trying.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pirozhki: These baked or fried pastries are traditionally filled with meat, potatoes, or cabbage.

  • Pelmeni: These are small, handmade dumplings filled with minced meat and served with sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass: This traditional Russian drink is made from fermented bread and has a slightly sweet and sour taste.

  • Vodka: Russia’s most famous drink, vodka is widely available in Novaya Chara.

Where to Stay in Novaya Chara: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options in Novaya Chara, from hotels to guesthouses. Here are some to consider:

  • Chara Hotel: This hotel is located in the town center and offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  • Guest House Transsib: This guesthouse is located near the Chara railway station and offers budget-friendly accommodation.

What to Buy in Novaya Chara: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Novaya Chara has several local products worth bringing home as souvenirs, such as:

  • Siberian Pine Nut Oil: This oil, made from the nuts of the Siberian Pine, has a unique and delicious flavor.

  • Matryoshka Dolls: These traditional Russian dolls are a popular souvenir and make great gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Novaya Chara

The people of Novaya Chara have a strong connection to nature and their traditional culture. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting cultural and religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Novaya Chara

The best time to visit Novaya Chara is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are long. Winter can be extremely cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Novaya Chara

Do:

  • Dress in layers during the winter months to stay warm.

  • Visit the natural attractions of Novaya Chara, such as Zabaikalsky National Park and the Chara River.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.

  • Travel alone in remote areas without a guide or proper equipment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Novaya Chara

Novaya Chara is a relatively safe place for travelers, but it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

Health in Novaya Chara

Visitors to Novaya Chara should be up to date on their routine vaccinations, including measles, mumps, and rubella. Travelers should also take precautions to prevent tick bites, as tick-borne diseases are prevalent in the area.

Getting to Novaya Chara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Novaya Chara can be reached by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Novaya Chara

  • Chara Airport

Bus Stations Near Novaya Chara

  • Novaya Chara Bus Station

Other Options

  • Driving: Novaya Chara can be reached by car from other parts of Russia.

How to Get Around in Novaya Chara

Novaya Chara is a small town, and most attractions can be reached on foot or by bike. Taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Novaya Chara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider after visiting Novaya Chara, such as:

  • Ulan-Ude: This city is the capital of Buryatia, a neighboring region, and is known for its Buddhist temples and local culture.

  • Lake Baikal: One of the most famous natural wonders of Russia, this lake is located a few hours’ drive from Novaya Chara and is a great spot for hiking and camping.

Conclusion

Novaya Chara is a unique and beautiful destination in Eastern Siberia, with plenty of natural attractions and cultural sites to explore. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, local culture, or simply taking in stunning scenery, Novaya Chara has something to offer every traveler. Plan your trip today and discover the best of Siberia.

The railway station The railway station