Siberia is known to many of the uninformed public only as a harsh, extremely cold place where prisoners where sent to during the Communist regime. But this is only a partial picture, the truth of the matter is that Siberia is an extremely beautiful place and is filled with places any nature lover would love to be in. True, unspoiled nature that is untouched by man’s grimy hands is to be found here in breath stopping splendor.
Siberia tourism has seen a large increase in recent years. People from many European countries other that Russia are also arriving in hordes nowadays. General development that has taken place in this area has now made it possible for the Government to set new standards in tourist experience and increase security standards. New developments that have taken place in communication, hotels and other facilities have helped improve Siberian tourism.
Location
Siberia is a huge area of land, consists almost all of North Russia.
Places to see
Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal, called ‘the pearl of Siberia’ is the largest in Europe in terms of volume. In terms of depth, Lake Baikal is the deepest in the world. Just to provide an idea of lake Baikal’s sheer massiveness, it would take an entire year for all of the rivers in the world to fill it to the top!
Sleigh tours held in winter enable the public to view the lake along with Barzukin Mountains. During summer and spring, the entire lake seems to explode in a wild variety of colors, as this is when the wild flowers bloom.
More than 1700 species of flora and fauna are to be found in Lake Baikal. Two thirds of these species is exclusive only to Lake Baikal. You may spot some freshwater seals called Nerpas, Omul Salmon, sables, bears, elk and lynx over here.
The lake is perfect for bird and animal watching, hiking and searching for rare plants. Kayaking and boating in catamarans and rafts is an activity preferred by many tourists. Divers from all over the world come here in seach of adventure. Wind surfing and kite surfing also takes place.
Altai Mountains
Altai Mountains stretch a huge 2000 km of area. The Altai Mountains have a golden luminescence to them, and this golden hue is responsible for the name Altai. The word Altay ,from which the name is derived, means Golden in Mongolian.
The Altai Mountains are a popular destination for all manner of adventure seekers; rafters, mountain climbing enthusiasts, skiers and many more. Dog sledding ,cycling and cross country skiing is also practiced.
Sayan Mountains
The Sayan Mountains are close to Lake Baikal. The unspoiled location supports the wanderlust of hard core explorers. Many people trek in these mountains.
The Tuvan people stay here, and they farm and tend reindeer, goats and yaks.
The wild life is varied, and the mountains have a large number of snow leopards, wolves, Lynx, the Siberian ibex and wild sheep. The sheep here are the largest in the world.
Lena River
Lena River is situated in Yakutia, and is among longest rivers in the world. This is another excellent spot for cruising. And cruises are held regularly.
The Trans-Siberian railway
A trip in the Trans-Siberian railway would be a totally amazing way of seeing Siberia up close. The incredible journey through the ethereal and constantly changing landscapes is the ultimate train ride in the world.
The Trans-Siberian railway connects Moscow and Vladivostok cover a distance of more than 9,000 km and is one of the longest railways in the world. A trip from Moscow to Vladivostok spans a total of six days and crosses eight time zones.
Adventuring in the lap of nature is what induces the thousands of tourists to keep coming to Siberia year after year.
