Khakassia Travel Guide

Get ready for an adventure in the heart of Western Siberia with our comprehensive travel guide for Khakassia. Discover the best places to visit, eat, and stay in Khakassia, as well as tips on getting around, safety, and local culture.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide for Khakassia, Russia

Located in Western Siberia, Khakassia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventure-seekers. With breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Khakassia is a must-visit destination in Eastern Europe.

Introduction to Khakassia

Khakassia is a federal subject of Russia, bordered by Krasnoyarsk Krai to the north, Tuva Republic to the south, Altai Republic to the east, and the Republic of Khakassia is located in the west. Khakassia is situated in the Sayan Mountains, known for their stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. The capital city is Abakan, and the region is home to many indigenous peoples, including the Khakas and Siberian Tatars.

List of Places to Visit in Khakassia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Khakassia is home to many cultural and historical sites, including museums and monuments that tell the story of the region’s rich heritage. Some must-visit cultural attractions in Khakassia include:

  • Museum of Khakassia - Located in Abakan, this museum is dedicated to local history, culture, and art, featuring exhibits on the region’s indigenous peoples, traditional crafts, and natural history.
  • Kazanovka Ethnographic Museum - This open-air museum showcases the traditional way of life of the Khakas people, with exhibits on traditional clothing, crafts, and architecture.
  • Tushinskoe Petroglyphs - These ancient petroglyphs, carved into the rocks of the Sayan Mountains, date back 3,000-5,000 years and offer an insight into the ancient culture of the region.

Natural Attractions of Khakassia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Khakassia is known for its stunning natural landscapes, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the must-visit natural attractions include:

  • Belukha Mountain - Known as the “Heart of the Altai,” this majestic mountain is one of the most stunning natural landmarks in the region and a popular spot for hiking and climbing.
  • Shira Lake - This crystal-clear lake, located in the heart of the Sayan Mountains, is a true natural wonder, surrounded by lush forests and wildlife.
  • Ulagan Plateau - This vast plateau offers breathtaking views of the Altai Mountains and is a popular destination for hiking, horseback riding, and paragliding.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Khakassia

Khakassia offers many hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the most popular:

  • The Sayan Ring - This 1,200 km route circles the entire Sayan Mountains and offers stunning views of the region’s natural wonders, as well as many cultural and historical sites.
  • The Ukok Plateau Route - This route goes through the Ukok Plateau, one of the most scenic areas in the region, with its stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna.
  • The Khakassky Route - This route goes through the ancient territories of the Khakas people, with its stunning views of the Sayan Mountains and many interesting cultural and historical sites.

Best Things to Do in Khakassia: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural attractions and hiking routes, Khakassia offers many exciting activities and tours for visitors, including:

  • Horseback riding - Explore the stunning landscapes of Khakassia on horseback, with many tour operators offering guided horseback tours.
  • Rafting and kayaking - Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting or kayaking on the Yenisei River, one of the largest rivers in the world.
  • Traditional crafts workshops - Learn about the traditional crafts of the Khakas people, including woodworking, felt-making, and embroidery, by participating in a workshop or a master class.

Week-Long Itinerary for Khakassia

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Khakassia:

  • Day 1 - Arrive in Abakan and explore the city, visiting the Museum of Khakassia and Kazanovka Ethnographic Museum.
  • Day 2-3 - Take a two-day tour of the Shira Lake and Ulagan Plateau, with opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and paragliding.
  • Day 4 - Visit the Tushinskoe Petroglyphs and explore the historic town of Askiz.
  • Day 5-6 - Take a two-day tour of the Belukha Mountain, with opportunities for hiking and climbing.
  • Day 7 - Depart from Abakan.

Food and Drink Scene of Khakassia

Must-Try Dishes

The cuisine of Khakassia is a blend of Russian and traditional Khakas dishes, with many hearty stews, soups, and meat dishes. Some must-try dishes include:

  • Shorpo - A hearty soup made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and vegetables.
  • Khuurgan - A popular Khakas dish made with minced meat, onions, and potatoes, served with sour cream.
  • Kymyz - A traditional beverage made from fermented mare’s milk, with a slightly sour taste.

Local Beverages

In addition to kymyz, Khakassia is also known for its local spirits and wines, including:

  • Bochonok - A local vodka made from wheat and rye, with a smooth taste.
  • Sayan Wine - A locally-produced wine made from grapes grown in the Sayan Mountains, with a unique taste and aroma.

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

Khakassia offers many options for accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular choices include:

  • Sayany Hotel - Located in the heart of Abakan, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to the city’s attractions.
  • Hotel Siberia - A budget-friendly option located in the center of Abakan, with clean and comfortable rooms and a friendly staff.
  • Guest House Arshan - A cozy guest house located in the countryside, offering rustic charm and stunning views of the Sayan Mountains.

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

Khakassia is famous for its traditional crafts and souvenirs, including:

  • Felt products - Khakassia is known for its high-quality felt products, including hats, slippers, and decorative items.
  • Khakasisky cheese - A local cheese made from the milk of Khakas cows, with a unique taste and texture.
  • Handmade wooden items - The traditional crafts of the Khakas people include woodworking, with many skilled craftsmen producing handmade objects such as spoons and bowls.

Local Culture and Customs of Khakassia

The culture of Khakassia is deeply rooted in its history and traditions, with many festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Some customs and traditions to be aware of include:

  • Hospitality - Khakassians are known for their warm and welcoming nature, and visitors can expect to be greeted with hospitality and kindness.
  • Shamanism - The Khakas people have a long tradition of shamanism, and visitors can learn more about this fascinating spiritual practice by participating in a shamanic ceremony.
  • Folk music and dance - Khakassia has a rich tradition of folk music and dance, with many festivals and performances showcasing these cultural treasures.

Best Time to Visit Khakassia

The best time to visit Khakassia is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny. Winter can be very cold, with heavy snowfall, but it offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the region covered in snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Khakassia

Do:

  • Learn some basic words and phrases in Russian to communicate with locals.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Be disrespectful towards the local culture and customs.
  • Ignore the safety rules when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious or cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Khakassia

Khakassia is a generally safe region for tourists, but visitors should take the usual precautions, such as avoiding unlit streets at night and keeping an eye on their belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Khakassia

Visitors to Khakassia are advised to get up-to-date vaccinations before traveling and to bring any necessary medications with them. It is also important to be aware of the risks of tick-borne diseases in rural areas and to take precautions, such as wearing long sleeves and pants and using insect repellent.

Getting to Khakassia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Khakassia

The main airport in Khakassia is Abakan International Airport, which offers regular flights to major cities in Russia, including Moscow and St. Petersburg.

Bus Stations Near Khakassia

Khakassia is well-connected by bus to major cities in the region, including Krasnoyarsk and Novosibirsk.

Other Options

Train travel is also an option, with regular trains to Abakan from Moscow, Novosibirsk, and other major cities in Russia.

How to Get Around in Khakassia

The best way to get around Khakassia is by car or by joining a group tour. There are also local buses and taxis, although they can be infrequent and may not always go to the more remote areas.

Where to Go Next from Khakassia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Khakassia is located in a prime spot for exploring other parts of Siberia and Central Asia. Some nearby destinations to consider include:

  • Tuva Republic - Located to the south of Khakassia, Tuva is known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, including the traditional throat singing.
  • The Altai Mountains - Located to the east of Khakassia, the Altai Mountains offer some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Russia, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and rafting.
  • Krasnoyarsk Krai - Located to the north of Khakassia, Krasnoyarsk Krai is a vast region with many natural wonders, including the Stolby Nature Reserve and the Yenisei River.

Conclusion

Khakassia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered, with stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a culture buff, or a foodie, Khakassia has something to offer for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure in the heart of Western Siberia!

Megaliths on the Khakass steppe Megaliths on the Khakass steppe Khakasski nature reserve Khakasski nature reserve


    Abakan