Kungur Travel Guide

Explore the hidden gems in Kungur with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking routes, accommodations, culinary spots, culture, transportation and more.


Introduction to Kungur

Kungur is a picturesque small town located in the Perm Krai region of Russia, situated amidst the Urals mountains. The town has a rich history and has remained one of the most favored destinations for those seeking tranquility and serenity. The pristine beauty of Kungur has captivated travelers from all over the world, with its unique blend of untouched landscapes, local culture, and historic charm.

List of Places to Visit in Kungur

Kungur boasts of a plethora of places to visit, from culturally significant landmarks to stunning natural attractions and outdoor adventures.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Kungur Ice Cave - One of the most popular tourist spots in Russia, the ice cave is home to underground rivers and waterfalls that merge to create a beautiful spectacle of crystal clear ice formations. The cave is open all year round and offers guided tours.
  2. House-Museum of Ivan Yakovlevich Eremin - The house-museum allows visitors to experience the life and times of an 18th-century merchant. Its exhibits offer a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle, cultural heritage, and history of the region.
  3. Kungur Local History Museum - The museum showcases the local traditions, beliefs, and customs of the region, with collections ranging from ethnography to paleontology.

Natural Attractions of Kungur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pleshcheeva Lake - Nestled amid the verdant hills, Pleshcheeva lake offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and forests. The lake offers a wide range of activities, including fishing, boating, and camping.
  2. Kungur Ski Resort - The ski resort offers a perfect blend of skiing and snowboarding activities amidst scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The resort also offers amenities such as bars, cafes, and restaurants.
  3. Mount Kruglaya - Mount Kruglaya offers a challenging trek for those seeking to explore the untouched wilderness of the Ural Mountains. The trek provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for experienced hikers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kungur

Kungur is paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and offers numerous hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular treks include the Kungur Ice Cave walking tour and Mount Tentovoi trek. For biking enthusiasts, the Kungur mountain bike trail is perfect for adventure and adrenaline-seekers.

Best Things to Do in Kungur: Activities and Tours

Kungur offers a multitude of activities and tours, suitable for travelers of all interests. Some of the most popular activities and tours include:

  1. Kungur Ice Cave Tour- A guided tour of the iconic ice cave, with breathtaking views of underground rivers, waterfalls, stalagmites, and stalactites.
  2. Yakovlevich Eremin House Museum Tour - A tour of the traditional lifestyle of 18th century merchants and their families in the Perm region.
  3. Kruglaya Mountain Trek - A guided hike up Kruglaya Mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  4. Horseback Riding Tour - An activity that allows visitors to take in the pristine beauty of the Kungur countryside on horseback.
  5. Skiing and Snowboarding at Kungur Ski Resort - Visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding amidst scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kungur

Day 1-2: Explore the stunning Kungur Ice Cave and the Yakovlevich Eremin House Museum. Day 3-4: Relax at Pleshcheeva Lake and indulge in some fishing or boating. Day 5-6: Trek the Kruglaya mountain and marvel at the scenic beauty of the Urals. Day 7: Wrap up the trip with skiing or snowboarding at Kungur Ski Resort.

Food and Drink Scene of Kungur

Kungur offers a range of culinary experiences that blend traditional Russian cuisine with local delicacies.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pelmeni - Dumplings filled with minced meat and spices.
  2. Blini - Russian pancakes that can be filled with savory or sweet toppings like caviar, jams, or mushrooms.
  3. Shashlik - A barbequed beef or lamb skewer marinated with spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Kvass - A fermented drink made from rye bread and flavored with sugar and fruits.
  2. Vodka - Russia’s national drink, made by distilling fermented grains or potatoes.

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

Kungur offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

  1. Kungur Park Hotel - A luxury hotel offering world-class amenities.
  2. Apart-Hotel Aravana - A modern, budget-friendly hotel with spacious rooms and onsite dining options.
  3. Hostel Kak Doma - Ideal for backpackers or budget travelers, offering clean and comfortable dormitory rooms.

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

  1. Birch bark souvenirs - The traditional artwork, baskets, and other crafts made from birch bark make for unique souvenirs.
  2. Honey - Kungur is known for its honey production, and visitors can buy jars of the sweet stuff from local shops and markets.
  3. Ural stones and crystals - Locally sourced gemstones and crystals can be bought from various souvenir stores in Kungur.

Local Culture and Customs of Kungur

Kungur is rich in local folklore, music, and dance. Visitors can witness traditional celebrations such as Maslenitsa, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring.

Best Time to Visit Kungur

The ideal time to visit Kungur is between May and September when the weather is mild, and visitors can enjoy all the outdoor activities without having to worry about snow.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kungur

Do:

  1. Try traditional Russian cuisine and local delicacies.
  2. Explore the local culture and attend traditional festivals.
  3. Take guided tours of local historic landmarks and natural sites.

Don’t:

  1. Venture into the wilderness alone.
  2. Show disrespect towards local customs and traditions.
  3. Overindulge in alcohol in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kungur

Kungur is generally safe for tourists. However, visitors are advised to take precautionary measures while hiking or trekking in the wilderness.

Health in Kungur

There are medical facilities available for visitors in Kungur. It is recommended to carry basic medicines, bottled water, and bug spray while exploring the outdoors.

Getting to Kungur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kungur can be accessed by air, bus, or train.

Airports Near Kungur

The nearest airport to Kungur is Perm International Airport (PEE), which is approximately 120 km away.

Bus Stations Near Kungur

The town has a well-connected bus network and can be easily accessed from major cities like Perm and Yekaterinburg.

Other Options

One can alternatively take a train to Perm or Yekaterinburg and then hop on a bus to Kungur.

How to Get Around in Kungur

Kungur has a well-developed local transportation system with buses and taxis that provide easy access to major tourist destinations within the town.

Where to Go Next from Kungur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Perm - A city approximately 185 km away and home to Perm State Art Gallery and Perm Zoo.
  2. Yekaterinburg - A city approximately 369 km away and home to the iconic Church on the Blood monument and the Ganina Yama Monastery.

Conclusion

Kungur offers the perfect mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and traditional culture for travelers seeking to experience a slice of Russia’s hidden gems. With a plethora of tourist attractions, outdoor activities, and local culinary delights, Kungur is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Russia. So pack your bags and explore the pristine beauty of Kungur, Russia today!

View over the Sylva river from the city center View over the Sylva river from the city center At the entrance to Kungur ice cave At the entrance to Kungur ice cave