Udmurtia Travel Guide

Explore the best of Udmurtia, Russia with our travel guide. Discover the top attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more!


Your Comprehensive Travel Guide to Udmurtia, Russia

Udmurtia is a republic located in the Volga Region of Russia, in Eastern Europe. This region is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for travelers who want to go off the beaten path. In this guide, we will go through the must-see attractions, the best places to stay, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, and much more!

Introduction to Udmurtia

Udmurtia is a republic in Russia, situated at the foot of the Ural Mountains, between the Volga River and the Kama River. The region is known for its vast forests, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural heritage. Udmurtia is home to two major ethnic groups, Udmurts and Russians. The Udmurt people are known for their unique language and traditions. Russians, on the other hand, constitute the majority of the population.

List of Places to Visit in Udmurtia

Visitors to Udmurtia will be spoilt for choice with its many natural and cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Udmurtia: Located in the capital city of Izhevsk, this museum showcases the history, culture, and traditions of the Udmurt people.

  • Udmurt Republican Museum of Fine Arts: This museum features a vast collection of works by Udmurt artists, as well as works by Russian and international artists.

  • Izmailovskaya Kremlin: This reconstructed fortress is a perfect example of Udmurt architecture and stands as a symbol of Russian military power during the 17th and 18th centuries.

  • Kalashnikov Museum and Exhibition Complex: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Russian arms designer, Mikhail Kalashnikov.

Natural Attractions of Udmurtia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Votkinsk Reservoir: This reservoir is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and boating while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

  • Kama River: This river is the largest in Europe, with a length of 2,292 km. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride while admiring the stunning views of the landscape.

  • Ural Mountains: This mountain range stretches over 2,500 km and is known for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can hike up the mountains, explore the caves, or go skiing in the winter.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Udmurtia

Udmurtia has a lot to offer for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

  • Keskeya and Karshnikha: This route takes visitors through the beautiful landscapes of Udmurtia, with stunning views of the forests and lakes.

  • Krekshino Reserve: This reserve has several hiking trails that wind through the forests and along the rivers. Visitors can spot rare flora and fauna along the way.

  • Izhevsk to Votkinsk: This route runs along the Kama River and is perfect for both hiking and biking. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and stop at the various villages along the way.

Best Things to Do in Udmurtia: Activities and Tours

Apart from the above-mentioned attractions, there are numerous other activities to do in Udmurtia:

  • Fishing: Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy fishing at the Votkinsk Reservoir or the Kama River. Visitors can catch trout, perch, and pike, among other species.

  • Horse Riding: Visitors can enjoy horse riding tours across the Udmurt countryside and explore the natural beauty of the region.

  • Skiing: Udmurtia has several ski resorts, including the Master Mountain Resort, where visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.

Week-Long Itinerary for Udmurtia

For visitors who want to fully explore Udmurtia, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the National Museum of Udmurtia
2 Visit the Kalashnikov Museum and Exhibition
3 Go hiking in the Keskeya and Karshnikha route
4 Enjoy water sports at Votkinsk Reservoir
5 Visit Izmailovskaya Kremlin
6 Take a boat ride along the Kama River
7 Go horse riding through the Udmurt countryside

Food and Drink Scene of Udmurtia

The food and drink scene of Udmurtia is unique and delicious. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chebureki: This is a fried pastry with meat or vegetable filling. It is a popular snack in Udmurtia.

  • Kalinka-Malinka: This dish consists of meat or fish, cooked with berries and vegetables.

  • Borshch: This is a traditional Russian soup made with beetroot, cabbage, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Kvass: This is a traditional Russian drink made from bread and often flavored with fruits or herbs.

  • Medovukha: This is a honey-based alcoholic drink and is a common drink in Udmurtia.

  • Chushka: This drink is made from sweet pepper and is a refreshing summer drink.

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

Udmurtia has numerous options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  • Park Inn by Radisson Izhevsk: This hotel is located in the center of Izhevsk and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.

  • Belaya Gora Guest House: This guesthouse offers stunning views of the Ural Mountains and is perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat.

  • Hostel IQ: This hostel is located in the heart of Izhevsk and offers affordable accommodation for backpackers and solo travelers.

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

Visitors to Udmurtia can bring back unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best options:

  • Khokhloma: This is a traditional Udmurt folk painting style, which features intricate designs and bright colors. Visitors can buy Khokhloma pottery, tableware, and souvenirs.

  • Udmurt Honey: Udmurtia is famous for its honey and visitors can buy jars of this delicious local product.

  • Birch Bark Crafts: Birch bark products are a traditional handicraft in Udmurtia. Visitors can find bowls, boxes, and other souvenirs made from birch bark.

Local Culture and Customs of Udmurtia

Udmurtia has a rich culture and tradition that visitors can experience during their stay. Here are some of the customs and traditions:

  • Udmurt Folk Music and Dance: Visitors can enjoy Udmurt folk music and dance performances during festivals and cultural events.

  • Udmurt Language: Udmurt is the official language of the Udmurt Republic, and visitors can learn some basic phrases to communicate with locals.

  • Udmurt Costumes: Traditional Udmurt costumes have intricate designs and bright colors and are often worn during cultural events and festivals. Visitors can see these costumes on display in museums.

Best Time to Visit Udmurtia

The best time to visit Udmurtia is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, visitors can also visit during the winter months from December to February for winter sports activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Udmurtia

Do:

  • Learn some basic Russian or Udmurt phrases before you visit

  • Respect the local customs and traditions

  • Explore the natural beauty of the region

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their permission

  • Disrespect local religious or cultural traditions

  • Litter or damage the environment

Safety and Health

Safety in Udmurtia

Udmurtia is a safe destination for travelers, and crime rates are low. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not carrying large sums of money or valuables.

Health in Udmurtia

Visitors should make sure to have comprehensive travel insurance. Health services in Udmurtia are generally good but visitors should also take appropriate precautions against tick-borne illnesses, and standard vaccination such as Hepatitis A and B, rabies (when wildlife activities) and yellow fever when coming from certain areas.

Getting to Udmurtia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Udmurtia

The primary airport in the Udmurt Republic is the Izhevsk Airport. This airport receives flights from several Russian cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Kazan.

Bus Stations Near Udmurtia

Several bus stations in major cities connect to Udmurtia. Some of the major bus stations are:

  • Kazan Bus Station
  • Perm Bus Station
  • Nizhny Novgorod Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train to Udmurtia. The major train stations in Udmurtia are Izhevsk, Votkinsk, and Mozhga.

How to Get Around in Udmurtia

Udmurtia has a good public transportation system. Visitors can take buses or minibusses to get around the cities and towns. Taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from Udmurtia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore nearby destinations and excursions after their visit to Udmurtia. Here are some suggestions:

  • Kazan: Take a short trip to the capital of Tatarstan, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture.

  • Perm: Explore the Perm Region, a beautiful area known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

  • Yekaterinburg: Visit this historic city, located at the edge of the Ural Mountains.

Conclusion

Udmurtia is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors a chance to experience rich culture, history, and natural beauty. With our comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore the region’s must-visit attractions, taste the local cuisine, and learn about the customs and traditions of the Udmurt people. So, go ahead and plan your trip to Udmurtia, and get ready for a memorable experience!