Lake Baikal – information and travel experience

Lake Baikal is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world and one of the famous tourist destinations in Russia. Baikal Lake in Siberia is the largest and deepest freshwater lake in the world, with an average depth of 744.4 meters and an area of ​​31,722 square kilometers. Lake Baikal contains 20% of the Earth’s freshwater; If the world runs out of water, Lake Baikal could provide enough humanity for a quarter of a century. The lake’s deepest point is 1,642 meters, and it was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. It is often referred to as the center of the Far East, a beautiful vacation paradise. This is why it attracts a large number of travelers visiting Russia.

With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, the lake is likened to a giant mirror, reflecting the majestic mountains and rows of birch trees. The water here contains very few minerals, allowing clear visibility of pebbles up to 40 meters deep. For this reason, visitors to Lake Baikal feel as if they have stepped into paradise, or a “fairyland,” as many people describe it. There are few lakes that possess the biodiversity of Baikal, with about 1,200 species of animals living in and around it. The most famous species is the nerpa (Baikal seal), which originated from the Arctic Ocean over 800,000 years ago. Wild nerpas are rarely seen in their natural habitat, so many tourists choose to visit seal farms in Irkutsk or Listvyanka to see these animals. Another unique fish species in Lake Baikal is the golomyanka, which has a transparent body and gives birth to live young instead of laying eggs. There is also the omul fish, known for its particularly sweet flavor, which is found exclusively in Lake Baikal.

History and Myths about Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal was referred to as “Northern Sea” in ancient Chinese texts. It lies within the territory of the Huns, stretching from the Han Dynasty border in the south to the Siberian taiga forests in the north. The lake has witnessed many wars between the Han and the Huns. Europeans had limited information about this lake until the Russian Empire expanded into the area in the 17th century. The first Russian explorer to reach Lake Baikal was Kurbat Ivanov in 1643.

There are mythical stories that you will certainly hear while traveling to Lake Baikal. The most widely circulated story is about the beautiful Angara and her father Baikal. She is the most cherished daughter among his 300 daughters.

Fearing for her safety, he locked her in a tall tower. However, the sturdy walls could not prevent her from seeking her love, Enisei. But they couldn’t meet, as her father grew angry, cursed them, and hurled a piece of a mountain to prevent her from uniting with her beloved. This story explains why the Angara River flows out of Lake Baikal rather than into it.

Must-Visit spots when traveling to Lake Baikal

When traveling to Lake Baikal, the distinctive cultural customs of the local people are the most noteworthy aspect, with each destination having its own unique characteristics. Here are some attractive tourist destinations around Lake Baikal:

1. Olkhon Island
   • The largest island on Lake Baikal, featuring stunning natural landscapes and pristine beaches.
   • Visit Shaman Rock, a sacred site in Buryat culture.
   • Join UAZ jeep tours to explore the island.
2. Listvyanka
   • A famous lakeside village easily accessible from Irkutsk.
   • Enjoy grilled omul fish, a specialty of Lake Baikal.
   • Visit the Baikal Museum to learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem.
3. Pribaikalsky National Park
   • Ideal for trekking, hiking, and camping activities.
   • Explore taiga forests, mountains, and diverse vegetation around the lake.
4. Cape Khoboy
   • Located on Olkhon Island, this spot is famous for its steep cliffs and panoramic views of Lake Baikal.
   • A fantastic destination for photography enthusiasts.
5. Irkutsk
   • The largest city near Lake Baikal, known for its traditional wooden architecture and rich history.
   • Visit the Kazan Church and Kirov Square.
6. Khuzhir
   • The largest village on Olkhon Island with a peaceful atmosphere.
   • Walk along the lakeshore to enjoy stunning sunsets.
7. Circum-Baikal Railway
   • A classic railway route offering breathtaking scenery along the lakeshore.
   • A perfect way to admire Lake Baikal’s landscape from a different perspective.
8. Ushkani Islands
   • Home to the rare Baikal seals.
   • Ideal for wildlife exploration enthusiasts.