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Lake Baikal

Spanning an impressive 636 km in length and 1,642 m deep, Lake Baikal holds more than 20% of the world’s surface fresh water.

Lake Baikal, also known as the Pearl of Siberia, is a freshwater lake in Southern Siberia in Russia. It is nestled between the Irkutsk region and the Republic of Buryatia. Also, it is North of the Mongolian border. 

It is the deepest Lake in the world, with a depth of about 5,387 feet (1,642 meters). Besides being the deepest lake, it is the largest freshwater lake by volume. More than 300 rivers and streams feed this lake. The Selenga River in Mongolia is the main tributary of Lake Baikal, supplying approximately 50% of its water. The lake has only one outlet, the Angara River, which drains into the Arctic Ocean.

In terms of age, Lake Baikal is the oldest lake in the world, with approximately 25 million years since it was formed.

Facts About Lake Baikal

• Location: Southern Siberia, Russia
• Depth: 1,642 meters,
• Length: 640 meters
• Surface area: 31,722 square kilometers (12,248 square miles).
• Volume: 23,615 cubic kilometers (5,670 cubic miles).
• Elevation: 456 meters
• Shoreline area: 2,100 kilometers
• Islands: 30
• Age: 25 million years
• Primary inflow: Selenga River
• Primary Outflow: River Angara

Characteristics

• It is the largest freshwater lake by volume, holding about 20% of the world’s surface freshwater. This is more water than all the North American Great Lakes combined.
• Over 300 streams and rivers feed Lake Baikal.
• The lake has only one outlet, the Angara River, which drains into the Arctic Ocean.
• With a maximum depth of 1,642 meters, Lake Baikal is also the deepest Lake globally.
• Lake Baikal is the only very deep lake with oxygenated water at its lowest depths.
• Lake Baikal is located along the Baikal Rift Zone, a tectonic boundary where the Earth’s crust is still pulling apart.
• It is one of the clearest lakes in the world, allowing visibility up to 40 meters. The Lake’s transparency results from the melted ice’s purity, limited phytoplankton growth, and lack of mineral salts.
• While it may be warmer than other parts of Siberia, Lake Baikal gets very cold during winter.

Lake Baikal is the world’s oldest lake, dating back at least 25 million years. The fracturing and movement of the Earth’s crust and surrounding mountains produced it. According to the Baikal World Web, it was most likely once a riverbed. Then, tremors and fractures in the Earth’s crust enlarged the area between its shores.

The lake is in a rift valley and experiences up to 2,000 earthquakes yearly. The shocks deepen and enlarge it. Some geophysicists believe Lake Baikal is an ocean in progress. This is because its coasts are drifting apart by 2 cm (0.78 inches) every year.

Various ethnic groups, such as the Buryat and Evenki people, have inhabited the area around the lake since the sixth century B.C. Over the years, they have relied on the lake’s resources for sustenance and spiritual significance.

What’s more, in the 17th and 18th centuries, Russian explorers ventured into the area around the lake, establishing trading posts and settlements. For this reason, the lake eventually became an essential transportation route, linking the region to the rest of Russia.

The Lake also witnessed the action during the Han-Xiongu War from 133 B.C. to A.D. 89.

What Makes Lake Baikal Unique?

When Russian novelist Anton Chekhov first set foot on Lake Baikal’s beaches, he characterized its impressive beauty as, unlike anything he had ever seen. Even so, the most unique part of the lake is not just its beauty but also its depth.

Lake Baikal is the world’s deepest Lake, measuring 5,387 feet (1,642 meters), as well as being the world’s deepest and largest freshwater lake . It holds 20-23% of the earth’s surface freshwater.

Another notable aspect of Lake Baikal is its incredible biodiversity. The lake is home to approximately 2,000 known species. Two-thirds of these species are endemic, meaning they are not found anywhere else on Earth—for example, the Baikal seal.

Lake Baikal’s UNESCO World Heritage Site status further underscores its exceptional value. It is recognized for its scientific importance and the need for conservation efforts to protect its fragile ecosystem.

Lake Baikal’s climate is continental, with long, cool winters and moderately short, warm summers. The region experiences significant seasonal variations in temperature due to its location far from large water bodies.

During winter, the lake experiences long, harsh, and bitterly cold winters. The typical temperatures in January, the coldest month, range from – 19°C to – 22°C (- 2°F to – 7.6°F) close to the Lake. The temperatures decrease even lower in the surrounding regions. The enormous size and depth of the lake contribute to the cooling effect on the land nearby.

The winter season is also characterized by weighty snowfall. The lake completely freezes, leaving behind a layer of ice as thick as several meters. The frozen surface of Lake Baikal turns into a fascination for activities such as ice skating, ice fishing, and even driving across the Lake during this time.

During summer, the average temperature is usually around 11°C. Due to low evaporation from the Lake, clouds rarely form over the area surrounding Lake Baikal, leading to a total duration of sunshine.

Islands in Lake Baikal

Olkhon is the largest island in Lake Baikal and the third-largest lake-bound island in the world. It covers an area of approximately 730 square kilometers (280 square miles) and is situated in the lake’s Western part.

Olkhon Island is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which include steppe-like regions, forests, rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and more. Olkhon is home to several villages with a population of about 1,500 people. It is also viewed as a holy site by the local Buryat people.

The Islands of Ushkany are a small group of islands in the Southern part of Lake Baikal. They are much smaller, covering only about 3.6 square miles (9.4 square kilometers). The Baikal seal, the only freshwater seal species in the world, lives on these islands, making them well-known for their importance as a habitat.

In addition, is the Bolshoye Goloustnoye Island, located on the Western shore of Lake Baikal. It is known for its beautiful scenes. It is a well-known destination for vacationers, offering valuable open doors for climbing, setting up camp, and untamed life perception.

Lake Baikal is also home to other smaller islands and islets, totaling about 30 in number.

Lake Baikal is home to more than 2,000 plant and animal species. Around two-thirds of these species are endemic. More than fifty species of fish are found in the Lake. Examples include the omul, grayling, whitefish, taimen, lenok, and golomyanka. In addition, it is the only known habitat of the endemic Baikal seal, the only freshwater seal in the world.

The area around Lake Baikal is also home to many different kinds of birds, such as the Baikal teal, the saker hawk, the Baikal cuckoo, and the black-throated loon.

As for plants, the waters of Lake Baikal are home to more than 500 species of algae. There are also many other plants that are native to the area, like the Siberian fir, the Baikal skullcap, and the Baikal onion. Like other lakes, lake Baikal is also home to several species of Mollusks, insects, and microscopic organisms.

Recreational Activities

Lake Baikal is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests that offer a variety of trails for hiking and trekking. Some popular trails include the Great Baikal Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake, and the Circum-Baikal Railway, which follows the old Trans-Siberian railroad, offering a unique glimpse into the area’s history.

The Lake is also great for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, and other water activities.

During winter, the Lake is usually covered in ice, providing ample opportunities for ice skating, ice fishing, ice diving, as well as dog sledding.

As mentioned above, Lake Baikal is home to many unique species of plants and animals. It also has a rich history and culture. Therefore, visitors here can go on guided tours to observe the wildlife and learn more about local traditions, customs, and history.

In which country is Lake Baikal located?

Lake Baikal is located in Russia. Specifically, it is situated in Southern Siberia, between the federal subjects of Irkutsk Oblast to the Northwest and the Republic of Buryatia to the Southeast.

Is Lake Baikal accessible in winter?

Yes, Lake Baikal is accessible in winter and offers unique winter activities. The lake freezes over, creating a thick layer of ice that feet, sleds, or vehicles can traverse. Winter activities like ice skating, ice fishing, and dog sledding are prevalent during this time.

When is the best time to visit Lake Baikal?

The best time to visit Lake Baikal depends on your interests. Summer (June to August) offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while winter (November to February) offers a unique experience of frozen landscapes.

Are there any dangerous animals in Lake Baikal?

Generally, it is safe to swim and carry out water activities in Lake Baikal. The only known dangerous animal in the lake is the golomyanka. But this fish is harmless to humans.

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Lake Baikal, Russia

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Why visit lake baikal.

Lake Baikal is one of the most jaw-dropping sights in the world and is often called "the Pearl of Siberia ". Surrounded by the picturesque taiga and mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. What is more, Eastern Siberia's Baikal is a spiritual destination point that is sure to please.

The first time the great Russian writer Anton Chekhov came to the shores of Lake Baikal, he realized that everything he had seen before was prose and that “everything afterward was poetry.” Visitors from all over the world come to experience this vast and sprawling lake. It is so grand that the Russians have dubbed it the "Sacred Sea."

Amazing Facts

Baikal is the deepest (with a maximum depth of 5,387 ft) and oldest (formed about 25 million years ago) lake in the world. In the chilly winter Baikal is a real fairy-tale, it freezes completely forming a unique phenomenon - a crystal-clear ice sheet that can be over 3 ft, giving the opportunity to take a sneak peak into Baikal's underwater world.

The lake is also home to some of the most unique and exceptional aquatic life with over 3,500 species of plants and animals inhabiting the lake, 70% of which can be found nowhere else in the world. While these animals dwell on the bottom of the lake, visitors can still enjoy the local seals called "nerpas", which are one of the three freshwater seal populations on Earth, as they frolic on the rocks scattered around the lake.

The lake encompasses 27 islands, the most famous of which is the pilgrimage site and home of shamans - Olkhon Island. Buryat tribes inhabit Baikal's eastern side and have been rearing goats, camels, cattle, and sheep on this territory for centuries.

Viewing the clear night sky in Lake Baikal is vastly different than anywhere else in the world. With the absence of city lights, stargazing around Baikal is a truly remarkable experience.

After spending the day enjoying the lake and its surroundings, visitors can enjoy fresh food from any one of the local vendors. Many of the vendors will prepare classic Siberian dishes such as omul. Depending on the season, there may even be special events to celebrate the winter or the coming of spring. As one of the world's most mystifying creations, Lake Baikal is an essential part of any Russia travel and a highlight of Trans-Siberian tours which gain popularity among travelers from all over the world. Dare to cross the 1/3 of our planet and see the world's largest lake? Welcome to Russia!

Related article: Best Time to Visit Lake Baikal

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• Description

Situated in south-east Siberia, the 3.15-million-ha Lake Baikal is the oldest (25 million years) and deepest (1,700 m) lake in the world. It contains 20% of the world's total unfrozen freshwater reserve. Known as the 'Galapagos of Russia', its age and isolation have produced one of the world's richest and most unusual freshwater faunas, which is of exceptional value to evolutionary science.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Situé au sud-est de la Sibérie, le lac Baïkal, d'une superficie de 3,15 millions d'hectares, est le plus ancien (25 millions d'années) et le plus profond (1 700 m) lac du monde. Il contient 20 % des eaux douces non gelées de la planète. Son ancienneté et son isolement ont produit une des faunes d'eau douce les plus riches et originales de la planète, qui présente une valeur exceptionnelle pour la science de l'évolution, ce qui lui vaut le surnom de « Galápagos de la Russie ».

بحيرة بايكل

تقع بحيرة بايكل جنوب شرق سيبيريا وتمتد على مساحة3.15 مليون هكتار وهي أقدم بحيرات العالم (25 مليون سنة) وأعمقها (1700 متر). وهي تضمّ 20% من مياه الأرض العذبة غير المثلجة. وفي قدمها وعزلتها ما أفضى إلى تكوّن مجموعات حيوانيّة هي الأغنى والأكثر ابتكاراً على وجه الأرض وهي تتمتع بقيمة استثنائيّة لعلم التطوّر فكسبت اسم "غالاباغوس روسيا".

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

坐落在俄罗斯联邦境内西伯利亚东南部的贝加尔湖，占地315万公顷，是世界历史最悠久（2500万年）且最深的（1700米）湖泊。它拥有地表不冻淡水资源的20%。以“俄国的加拉帕戈斯”而闻名于世的贝加尔湖，因其悠久的年代和人迹罕见，使它成为拥有世界上种类最多和最稀有的淡水动物群的地区之一，而这一动物群对于进化科学具有不可估量的价值。

Lago Baikal

Situado al sudeste de Siberia, este lago tiene una superficie de 3.150.000 hectáreas y es el más antiguo (25 millones de años) y profundo del mundo (1.700 metros). Contiene el 20% del agua dulce no helada de la Tierra. Debido a su antigüedad y aislamiento posee una de las faunas de agua dulce más ricas y singulares del planeta. El excepcional interés que ésta ofrece para el estudio de la evolución de las especies le ha valido al lago Baikal el sobrenombre de “las Galápagos de Rusia”.

source: NFUAJ

Baikal meer

Het 3,15 miljoen hectare grote Baikal meer is het oudste (25 miljoen jaar oud) en diepste (1.700 meter) meer ter wereld. Het bevat 20% van 's werelds (niet bevroren) zoetwaterreserve. Het meer in zuidoost Siberië – de ‘Galapagos van Rusland’ – heeft een van de rijkste en meest ongewone zoetwaterfauna's ter wereld. Een van de meest opvallende soorten is de Baikal zeehond. Het gebied kent verder een grote verscheidenheid aan planten, waarvan een aantal inheems. Ten westen van het meer zijn er lichte naaldbossen en bergsteppen. In het gebied ten oosten domineren dennen- en loofbossen.

Source: unesco.nl

Justification for Inscription

The Committee inscribed Lake Baikal as the most outstanding example of a freshwater ecosystem on the basis of natural criteria (vii), (viii), (ix) and (x). It is the oldest and deepest of the world´s lakes containing nearly 20% of the world´s unfrozen freshwater reserve. The lake contains an outstanding variety of endemic flora and fauna, which is of exceptional value to evolutionary science. It is also surrounded by a system of protected areas that have high scenic and other natural values. The Committee took note of the confirmation of the revised boundaries of the site, which correspond to the core areas defined in the Baikal Law (excluding the five urban developed areas). It also noted that the special Lake Baikal Law is now in its second reading in the Duma. Finally, it noted concern over a number of integrity issues including pollution, which should be brought to the attention of the Russian authorities.

• Natural Heritage Protection Fund
• Lake Baikal (Friends & Partners)
• Protectedplanet.net

State of Conservation (SOC)

Protections by other conservation instruments.

2 protections / 3 elements

• Barguzinskyi
• Selenga Delta

Read more about synergies

Lake Baikal

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Landscape
• 1.3 Flora and fauna
• 1.4 Climate
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around
• 5.1 Itineraries
• 9.1.1 Eastern shore
• 9.1.2 Western shore
• 10 Stay safe

Understand [ edit ]

The lake is located in Eastern Siberia , between Irkutsk Oblast to the northwest and Buryatia to the southeast. It is the planet's deepest (1637m) and oldest lake, as well as its largest body of freshwater by volume, containing over one fifth of the world's supply. The origins of the name are unknown, but several hypotheses are these: deep water (Yakut), rich lake (Turkic), rich fire (Mongolian), northern sea (Chinese). Russians sometimes call the lake Baikal sea because of its size.

History [ edit ]

The lake's geological formation started around 20-25 million years ago in the Mesozoic era. Its rift is continuing to widen 2 cm a year. The first mention of its name appeared in Chinese writings in 110 BC as "Beihai" (Northern Sea). Several cultures have flourished on its shores, and in the 18th century Buryat nationality came into being. Russian sources first mentioned Baikal in 1640. Exploration and description by Russian Cossacks and the Church continued until the first scientific expedition in 1723. On 13 October 1905 the Circum-Baikal Railway was opened. In 1916 Barguzinsky Nature Reserve was organized. In 1990, wind-surfers from Russia, Austria and Czechoslovakia first crossed the widest place of the lake. In 1991 the deepest spot on the lake's bottom was reached. In 1996, the Baikal became a part of UNESCO Heritage. The vessel "Sevan" began cruise tours in 2003.

Landscape [ edit ]

Baikal mountains surrounding the valley and the lake consist of a few ranges. In the west there are the Baikal Mountains, in the east the Zabaikalskie Mountains. The Angara River is the only outflow of Lake Baikal. The ranges, rivers and valleys are tourist attractions of their own.

Flora and fauna [ edit ]

• Baikal Seal

Climate [ edit ]

The water mass is a key factor to the climate of the lake's banks. Winters are often milder, summers are chillier. Spring-time is late 10-15 days than the outer regions and fall is rather long. The area is distinctive for sunshine longevity which is record-high for the of whole Russia. Specific traits are added to the climate of the Baikal by winds: barguzin, sarma, verkhovik, kultuk. It is a common thinking that the Baikal is best for visit in July, when temperatures and winds reach favorable condition. The water in summer is cold, normally +8 to 9 °C and can reach +15 °C in bays. It's so pellucid that one can see the bottom 40 m down.

Get in [ edit ]

By air [ edit ].

The nearest airport is in Irkutsk , which can be reached from either Domodedovo or Sheremetyevo 1 in Moscow . Charters from Bangkok are often operated by tour companies.

Domestic flights are taken in from Khabarovsk , Vladivostok , Krasnoyarsk , Novosibirsk , Magadan , Yakutsk , Yekaterinburg , Saint Petersburg , Sochi .

By train [ edit ]

Lake Baikal is one of the most scenic parts along the Trans-Siberian Railway . Coming from west, a bit after Irkutsk , the train descends along serpentine curves to the lakeshore and follows much of the southwestern edge of the lake for several hours, almost all the way to Ulan Ude . This is a scenic ride you may want to ride it at daytime (check the schedule of your train), especially if it's the first time you travel along the Transsib. Of the stations right next to the lake, long-distance trains stop at least in Slyudyanka .

The Baikal-Amur Mainline follows the lakeshore from Severobaikalsk and further north.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses leave from Irkutsk station throughout the day. The ride is about an hour and a half, with several stops along the way, and ends in the small town of Listvyanka , at the shores of the lake.

See [ edit ]

• Olkhon . The largest island on the lake.

In Irkutsk Oblast (west of the lake)

• Vitimsky Nature Reserve
• Baikalo-Lensky Reserve

In Buryatia (east of the lake)

• Baikalsky Nature Reserve
• Barguzinsky Nature Reserve
• Dzherginsky Nature Reserve

Do [ edit ]

Take part in yearly cross-country six-day race TransBaikal-20xx in July. Hovering 465 km (289 mi) and the dislevello 10,060 m (33,010 ft) it starts in Buguldeyka village takes two-days turn to Olkhon and ends in Yelantsy down south.

Itineraries [ edit ]

• Frolikha Adventure Coastline Track, as part of the future Great Baikal Trail [dead link] .

Buy [ edit ]

Souvenirs are sold near the omul sellers (see below), and tend to be cheaper than in other Russian cities. There are several boats at the main dock who take on tourists when not fishing. The prices are negotiable, try to find other tourists who want to ride and get cheaper prices by being in a large group. Sometimes a kid with broken English acts as an intermediary for the price haggling.

Eat [ edit ]

The smoked omul sold by several fish sellers on the edge of the lake is wonderful, and there is a restaurant on the lake's edge with good fish, along with several bars and small groceries. But in 2018, it was forbidden to catch during spawning because the population had declined, so you will not find omul .

Everything in Listvyanka is within walking distance, including a small post office.

You should taste local Buryat dumplings - Boozy.

Drink [ edit ]

Baikal water is drinkable and almost distilled as the amount of mineral salts is infinitesimal.

Sleep [ edit ]

You may stay in Irkutsk or Ulan-Ude, make a day trip to the lake and get back.

Lake-side towns:

• Listvyanka , Irkutsk Oblast , the most popular destination with a number of hotels.
• Severobaikalsk , Buryatia , the city in the north with a number of hotels.
• Slyudyanka , the southmost village.

Rest bases [ edit ]

'Rest bases' of the Baikal are Russian type of countryside wooden houses with facilities offering excursions to the local sights. They often are located in villages or nearby.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

Irkutsk is the biggest city nearby, but the BAM and the Trans-Siberian can take you from one side of the country to the other.

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Lake Baikal

Lakes are some of Russia’ s most important drainage features, occupying a significant portion of the country’s territory. According to the Russian government, the country has over 2.7 million lakes of different types and sizes. One of the country’s most important lakes is Lake Baykal or Lake Baikal, located between the Buryat Republic and Irkutsk Oblast in the southern Siberian Region. It is the world’s largest freshwater lake by volume, accounting for at least 22% of the Earth’s total water surface. All the waters of the North American Great Lakes are not enough to fill Lake Baikal. Baikal is also one of the world’s deepest and clearest lakes.

Lake Baikal is situated in southern Siberia, south-central Russia, near the border with Mongolia . It is sandwiched between the Buryat Republic on the south and Irkutsk. The largest city near the lake’s region is Irkutsk. Lake Baikal covers about 31,722 km 2 , making it the world’s largest freshwater lake. It is also the world’s deepest lake, with a maximum depth of 1,642 meters below the water surface. However, the lake’s bottom is 1,186.5 meters below the sea surface. Below the lake’s bottom lies sediments of about 7 kilometers, making it the Earth’s deepest continental rift, with a rift floor of 8-11 kilometers. Baikal has a maximum length of 636 kilometers and a maximum width of 79 kilometers, with a catchment area of 560,000 km 2 .

Lake Baikal is divided into three main basins North Basin (with a depth of 900 meters), South Basin (1,400 m), and Central Basin (1,600 m). The basins are separated by fault zones which are about 300 meters deep. The Academician Ridge separates the Central and North Basins, while the South and Central Basins are separated by the Buguldeika Saddle. The lake has a meandering shoreline, running for about 2,100 kilometers and interrupted by several bays, including Proval, Chivyrkuysky, and Barguzin. Svyatoy Nos Peninsula extends into the lake on the eastern shores.

There are 45 islands and islets in Lake Baikal, of which Olkhon is the largest island, covering about 700 km 2 . Olkhon is also the world’s third-largest lake island. Other islands include Ushkany and Bolshoy. The lake is surrounded by mountains, including the Barguzini Range and Baikal Mountain on the northeastern and north shores. Up to 330 rivers drain into Lake Baikal, of which Barguzini, Selenga, Upper Angara, Sarma, and Turka are the major ones. However, the lake has only one outlet, the Angara River, which empties about 60 cubic kilometers of water annually. 

Baikal’s water is one of the world’s clearest waters that one can see through up to 40 meters during winter and up to 8 meters in summer. The water temperature varies with depth, season, and location. The lake’s surface freezes for up to five months during spring and winter and is covered in ice between January and June, with the ice reaching 1.4 meters or more than 2 meters in areas with hummock. The surface ice begins to break in May or June, and the heat from the sun begins to warm up the water. The upper layer (300 meters) warms uniformly to about 39 degrees Fahrenheit. As the sun continues to heat the water, the temperature rises and peaks in August, reaching 16 degrees Fahrenheit in some areas and 75 degrees Fahrenheit in shallow bays, especially the lake’s southern half. The temperature begins to fall again in the autumn.

Brief History

Lake Baikal is about 25 million years old, making it one of the world’s oldest lakes. The lake and the surrounding mountains were formed by the moving and fracturing of the Earth’s crust. According to popular sources, the lake was originally a riverbed but increased in size after the Earth’s crust fracturing. The melting glacier in the Siberian and surrounding regions filled the lake over time. Other theories suggest that a series of small lakes formed first and united about 5-2.6 million years ago to form one huge lake. Several factors may have caused the lakes’ unification, including earthquakes, falling rocks, or sinking earth.

The indigenous people have inhabited the regions around the Baikal since about 6th century BC. However, the people may have frequently visited the area long before then. Several battles have been fought around the lake, including the Han-Xiongnu War. In 1643, Russian Kurbat became the first European to visit Lake Baikal. Russia conquered Siberia and made Lake Baikal part of its territory in the 17th century.

Lake Baikal is a biodiversity hotspot , hosting over 1,000 plants and 2,500 animals, of which 80% are endemic. The lake is sometimes referred to as the “Galapagos of Russia” because of its high biodiversity. The flora of Baikal includes marsh thistle and over 80 submerged macrophyte species. One of Baikal’s animal species is nerpha or Baikal seal. Other land mammals include Eurasian brown bears, red fox, Siberian red deer, Alpine hare, and reindeers. There are over 260 bird species, including Balkan bush warbler and Baikal teal. More than half of the 65 native fish species in the lake are endemic .

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Lake Baikal Travel Guide – Russia’s Largest Lake

Russia’s Lake Baikal is one of nature’s wonders. It’s the largest freshwater lake in the world. Located in the heart of Siberia, it’s a travel experience that hasn’t been completely overrun with other tourists. If you love nature, you owe it to yourself to experience seeing lake Baikal.

• Quick Lake Baikal brief
• Lake Baikal contains about 22% of the world’s fresh water supply.
• The lake is located in mid-Siberia, close to Irkutsk.
• In winter, the ice layer can get as thick as 2 meters (almost 7 feet)
• The Trans-Siberia express goes along the lake for a short while

How to get to Lake Baikal?

Getting to Irkutsk

• Getting to your base / hotel

Go to Shamanka Rock (east)

Visit the thermal springs in khakusy (north), go to irkutsk (west), rent a boat, shaman rituals, look for nerpas, where to stay, places with english speakers, go in a group, learn basic russian, should you go in summer or winter.

Getting to lake Baikal is not as easy as hopping in a plane, flying, leaving the plane, taking a bus, and admiring the beauty of the lake. It takes a little more effort.

When I went to lake Baikal summer 2019, we stayed at a base close to the middle of the lake.

Here’s a video where you can see the view from our base. I make videos to practice my Russian , so this video is more to show how Baikal looks. Unfortunately, when I was there in the summer of 2019, there were bad forest fires, and the entire sky was dark. Luckily the Siberian fire departments got it in control a couple of days after we arrived, and we could see the clear sky. (and the Siberian forests got saved)

In order to get there it took me:

• 3 hours to fly from Amsterdam to Moscow
• 6 hours to fly from Moscow to Irkutsk
• 1 hour to get from the airport to the main square (from which our bus left)
• 4 hours to drive from the square to our base

For someone who’s used to travel in Europe, this was among the longest it had ever taken me to get to my destination.

Depending on where you’re from in the world, you first need to get to Irkutsk.

• From Europe, the easiest way is through Moscow.
• From Asia and the U.S, it should be easier to fly through an Asian hub.

Next, it depends on where you are staying around Baikal. The lake is huge. It would take you more than a day of continuous driving to drive around the lake. Irkutsk is located on the west side of the lake. So if you are staying on the northern or eastern sides, you better take another plane to either Ulan Ede (east side) or Severobaikalsk (north side).

Getting to your base/hotel

Since the 2 main cities Irkutsk and Ulan Ede are located on at least 1-hour drive from the lake, most people that decide to visit Baikal do so by staying in camps (bases).

Depending on the luxury you’re looking for these bases can resemble anything from 5-star hotels to rustic camps. Most of them are located far from civilization. So they all have their own facilities. The stay in most bases includes a transfer by Marshrutka (Russian minibus) to the base.

You can decide to rent a car , but make sure that it’s Baikal proof. You often need to go drive on long unhardened ways, with much dust and steep terrain. So a regular city car won’t do it.

Taking a Russian bus will be an experience on its own. You will be together with 10 other travelers, going 100km (60 miles) per hour on unhardened roads. At times it feels like you’re in a roller coaster. A simple tip if you take the marshrutka: put your bag in a larger plastic bag. Since it can get very dusty inside the car (mainly in summer).

Places to visit around Lake Baikal

Unless you’re staying for several weeks, it’s going to be nearly impossible to see everything around lake Baikal.

Just take a look at google maps below:

The distances are just too big to quickly go from one spot around the lake to another. So I recommend you read up on this page what all the activities are, and then pick 1 location to visit.

Here are some ideas:

This is the most iconic place you can find around Lake Baikal. Shamanka rock is to Baikal, what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. The only downside is that it’s located far away from the rest of the sites. So if you want to visit it, you’d need to stay there specifically.

Another option would be to take an excursion there. Depending on where you’re located, this could be anything from 1 to several days.

I have not seen it, as we were located on the opposite side of the lake. Which is just a reason to go back another time.

If you’re traveling to Baikal in winter, then this is a very local experience. There’s something special to being in a hot spring or sauna, while there’s snow around.

You can first heat up in the thermal spring while enjoying the beautiful landscape. And once things become too warm for you, take a quick jump in the snow to cool off.

I personally haven’t gone here as well, since it was too far to travel. We didn’t have a way of transporting ourselves, and only 4 days at Baikal. But reading about it reminded me of going to the sauna in Moscow in winter. It also reminded me of the thermal springs I went to in Budapest in winter 2012.

If you happen to be near Khakusy and want to have a breathtaking view and experience, I’d highly recommend you go check this place out. It’s located on the northeastern bank of the lake.

A while ago, Irkutsk got the nickname the ‘Paris of the East’. It’s one of the largest cities in Siberia with a population of around 600,000 citizens. We only were there for a couple of hours in transit, but the things I saw there made me want to stay for longer.

During the 19th century, Irkutsk was the destination of many political exiles. The center is a UNESCO heritage, and I personally liked that you can still find some older wooden buildings in the city.

It’s also refreshing if you’re looking for things to do after being in nature around the lake, as Irkutsk is a regular modern city. Which means that you can go shopping, go out to restaurants, or party.

Things to do at lake Baikal

Here’s a list of things you can do at Baikal. In general, this is a place for people who like nature.

Hiking is a great thing to do around the lake. The views along the lake shores are absolutely breathtaking. And if you go hiking up along the mountains next to the shores, the views will only become better.

The only downside would be that since the distances are so vast, you likely won’t be able to go hiking for many days. You’d run out of options quickly.

Here’s a picture of me hiking along the shores of Baikal. This is at the part of the lake called ‘Maloe More’.

When you tell someone you’re traveling to Siberia, one of the first questions you get is ‘’oh but isn’t it always cold there?’

Siberia has a land climate, which means cold winters and hot summers.

I’m from the Netherlands, and most Siberian summers are hotter on average than the summers in Amsterdam. That makes Lake Baikal a good summer option if you like swimming and watersports.

There is a downside, and that is that most of lake Baikal’s water comes from meltwater. It’s also very deep at many places. In the north, the last ice can stay up till June.

The best place for swimming is called in Russian ????? ???? (small sea). It’s located on the west side between the shore and the Olkhon island:

Since the water is much more shallow there, the temperature is perfect for swimming. It’s also a developed part of the lake, with many camps and hotels.

It’s possible to rent a boat. It’s nice to reverse the views and take a look at the shore from the lake.

While you can’t rent a boat everywhere, in most more densely populated areas along the shore it’s possible to find a rental place.

If you’re going in a group, you can also rent a yacht. It may seem expensive, but I found some places that offer a yacht for 50,000 rubles per day. At this writing, that’s about 600 dollars per day. The yacht has around 8 places to sleep, so per person that would be around 75 dollars. Which doesn’t even differ that much from the average prices of most hotels.

Russia has a large hunting culture. I have a Dutch friend whose wife is from Irkutsk, and he loves to travel there once a year for several weeks in summer. He always goes hunting with her dad.

Animals that you can hunt for around Baikal are:

Since the areas around lake Baikal are so huge, and so sparsely populated, there are many places you can go hunting. If you have a Russian friend traveling with you, you can also ask him to check the local regulations.

While I think it’s possible to take your own hunting equipment, it seems it’s a lot easier to book an arrangement through a company. That way you have all the legal stuff handled for you, and you don’t need to be taking equipment on the plane.

In this case, it’s best to Google ‘’hunting [place name] Baikal”. That should give you a large number of options.

I just did this, and found this for example:

Which means that all the visa stuff will also be taken care of.

Currently getting a Russian visa requires you to get a boatload of documents, an official invitation from a Russian person/company, and more. So it’s easier to get it done for you. Luckily, Russia has been doing tests in 2020 with an e-visa for some regions. They’re planning on rolling the e-visa out to all of Russian in 2021. So no more visa troubles 🙂

Apart from hunting, you can also go fishing. Either from shore or from a boat. Since many camps don’t have shops or restaurants close, it’s not unusual to see people camping in the middle of nowhere. They come by car and bring a lot of canned supplies.

And the main dish? They catch it during the day.

Baikal has 52 different fish species. The ones of main interest for sports fishing are:

Fishing season starts on the 20th of May and lasts until the first snow in October.

Throughout history, the regions around lake Baikal have been a hotspot for shamanism. It is practiced less, but there are still places where you can go on an excursion and see how ancient shaman rituals were done.

There’s a specific seal living in lake Baikal: the Baikal seal. At the moment there are around 80,000 to 100,000 animals living in the lake. Which makes your chances of seeing one pretty high. If you’re lucky, you can find them during summer sunbathing on the rocks. But the best way to find them is by taking a specific tour to go look for them.

Here you can see the view from out of my window in the base I was staying:

Can you get by knowing only English?

There are many places in the world where you can easily get by just knowing English.

Lake Baikal (and Russia in general) is not among them.

If you don’t know English, you have 3 options:

• Make sure the place where you’re going has English speakers (book a specific tour for non-Russian tourists for example)
• Go with a company that has at least 1 Russian speaker

Lake Baikal is becoming more touristic, and that means more attention from outside Russia as well. When there’s money to be made, companies will follow with tours and packages. Since many young Russians are learning English, there are now some tours that you can follow where you don’t need to know Russian. You likely won’t get off the beaten path by doing this, but it does allow you to see the grandiosity of Baikal and some of its main attractions.

You can find tours here

If you have someone in your group of friends that speaks Russian, it’s not a bad idea to ask them if they’d like to travel to lake Baikal together. If they have the time and money, they’d happily agree.

Before and after flying to Baikal, I asked around 50 Russians (in Moscow) if they’d ever been to Baikal. How many do you think said yes? 20? 5? 1? Zero. None had ever been to Baikal.

And most of these people were educated and loved to travel (and HAD traveled a lot in their life). But if flying to Irkutsk is more expensive than flying to Barcelona, it’s an easy choice for most Russians. Everyone said that they’d love to see Baikal at least once in their lives though.

So, if you happen to be close to a Russian speaker, chances are they’d be happy to join you on their trip.

The last and most time-intensive option is to learn some basic Russian. Many people won’t choose this option, but if you have a couple of months to spare before your trip, and you’d like to learn something new, it makes a lot of sense to learn basic Russian.

If you spend about 30 minutes per day listening to audio lessons for about 4-6 months, your Russian will be good enough to get around in Russia.

When I started learning Russian 5 years ago, the course that helped me a lot was Russianpod101 . You can read my experiences with this Russian course here.

That depends on what you prefer. Here’s a short overview of the perks of each season:

Baikal Summer

• Can swim in the lake
• Great for hiking, hunting, or fishing
• Nice temperature ranging from 20 – 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degree Fahrenheit)
• More tourists
• Nice weather only lasts from mid-June to the end of August (2.5 months)

Baikal Winter

• Great variety of winter sports (ice skating, dog sledding, ice kiting)
• Winter fishing
• Less tourists
• Clear thick ice
• Much sunshine
• Relatively warm for Siberian standards: in January it’s around -15 to -20 degrees celsius (5 to -4 degree Fahrenheit)

Related Posts

by Arie Helderman

One response to “lake baikal travel guide – russia’s largest lake”.

Arie Helderman

Thanks Chris for the opportunity to write about my experience here. Hope it helps someone 🙂

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Tags: article , lake baikal , russia , siberia

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Lake Baikal, Russia: A Traveler’s Guide

Lake Baikal is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Russia. The lake, located in Siberia, is the largest freshwater lake in the world by volume and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. This guide will explore some of the best things to do and see at Lake Baikal, including two outdoor activities, two must-see places, and one unusual tip for making the most of your trip.

Outdoor activities

Discover outdoor activities at Lake Baikal. From hiking to kayaking along the lake, there's something for everyone.

One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Lake Baikal is by hiking along its many trails. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy, flat paths to more challenging, steep routes. Some popular trails include the Great Baikal Trail , which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains, and the Olkhon Island Trail , which takes you through dense forests and along the lake’s rocky coastline.

Another great way to explore Lake Baikal is by kayak. The lake is home to a number of rental companies that offer kayaks and equipment, as well as guided tours . Kayaking on Lake Baikal is a unique experience, as the lake is so large that you can often feel like you’re the only person on it. Some popular routes include the Olkhon Island to the Maloye More (the Small Sea), and the Bolshoye Goloustnoye to the Maloye More.

Must See Places

Enjoy the must-see sights in Lake Baikal. We'll guide you to the best spots for an unforgettable experience.

Olkhon Island

This is the largest island on Lake Baikal and is home to several ancient shamanic sites, including Khoboy Cape, considered the lake’s spiritual center. The Olkhon island is also known for its beautiful landscapes, including sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and dense forests. Visitors can also take a boat tour to see the famous Baikal seals.

Listvyanka Village

This charming village is located on the shores of Lake Baikal and is a great spot for visitors looking to experience traditional Russian culture. Visitors can enjoy traditional Russian cuisine, visit the local market, or take a boat tour to see the famous Baikal nerpa (seals). The Listvyanka village also has a number of museums, including the Baikal Museum, which offers visitors a chance to learn more about the lake and its history.

Unusual Tip

Uncover the hidden gem of Lake Baikal. This unusual tip will let you turn your travel into an unforgettable experience.

One unusual tip for visiting Lake Baikal is to take a dip in the lake’s icy waters. Although it may seem daunting, taking a dip in the lake is a traditional Russian practice and is said to have health benefits. Visitors can also try the “walrus” or “polar bear” swimming. This is a traditional Russian way of swimming in cold water, where you submerge yourself in the water and stay there for a short period of time. It’s a great way to experience the lake’s icy waters and feel like a true Siberian.

Hidden Wonders

Here are two top places from Atlas Obscura to add to your list of things to see and do at Lake Baikal. Both of these places are unique, and it will definitely add to the experience of visiting the lake.

The Baikal Limnological Museum

This unique museum is located on the shores of Lake Baikal and is dedicated to studying the lake’s flora, fauna, and geology. The museum is home to several exhibits showcasing the lake’s diverse ecosystem, including a replica of an underwater cave and a collection of Baikal seals. Visitors can also take a boat tour from the museum to see the famous Baikal nerpa (seals) in their natural habitat.

The Baikal Ice Road

This unique road is only open during winter and offers visitors a chance to experience the lake’s frozen surface. The road is located on the southern shore of Lake Baikal and is only accessible by car or snowmobile. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the frozen lake, stop at ice fishing huts, and even try their hand at ice fishing.

Accommodation Suggestions

All these options offer something unique and different. Hostel Baikal is the best budget-friendly option; Baikal Guesthouse provides a traditional Russian experience, Hotel Baikal is for luxury seekers, and Baikal Eco-lodge is for those who want to immerse in nature and want to experience sustainable living.

Budget-friendly:

Hostel Baikal this option is a great choice for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. The hostel is located in the town of Listvyanka, on the shores of Lake Baikal, and offers dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen and common room, as well as access to Wi-Fi.

Baikal Guesthouse – This is an option that offers comfortable and clean accommodation in a traditional Russian-style house. The guesthouse is located in the town of Listvyanka and offers rooms with private bathrooms and shared kitchen facilities. Guests can also enjoy a sauna and outdoor terrace and access to Wi-Fi.

Hotel Mayak is a luxurious hotel located in Irkutsk, about an hour’s drive from Lake Baikal. It offers elegant and spacious rooms with a private bathroom, as well as a restaurant serving Russian and European cuisine. The hotel also features a spa and wellness center, a fitness center, and a swimming pool.

Belka-Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel located in Listvyanka, just a few minutes’ walk from Lake Baikal. The hotel’s restaurant serves delicious local cuisine, and guests can also enjoy the hotel’s spa and wellness center, which features a sauna, a hot tub, and massage treatments. Additionally, the hotel offers a range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding in the winter, and hiking, biking, and horseback riding in the summer.

In conclusion, Lake Baikal is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience Russia’s natural beauty, traditional culture, and unique history. Whether you’re interested in hiking, kayaking, or simply taking in the stunning views, Lake Baikal is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Russia. Don’t forget to visit Olkhon Island, Listvyanka village, and take a dip in the lake’s icy waters for an unusual experience.

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How to Visit Lake Baikal Russia from Irkutsk

Amidst mountains and pine forests in a remote Siberian village in the far east of Russia, lies the deepest lake in the world: Lake Baikal.

This ancient lake is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Russia’s most popular tourist destinations. In summer, it’s sapphire-blue water and 2000-kilometre-long shoreline make a perfect setting for picnics and leisurely lakeside strolls.

In winter, it transforms into a transparent ice rink that is so clear you can see up to 40 meters down, and strong enough to support a network of winter roads, complete with traffic signs laid on the ice surface.

Table of Contents

Fun Facts About Lake Baikal

Lake baikal history.

This ancient lake is estimated to be about 25 to 30 million years old , making it the oldest lake in the world. It is speculated that Lake Baikal was originally a riverbed that gradually increased its size due to the fractures and movements of the Earth’s crust.

There are several myths and legends surrounding the lake but the most famous one is a Buryat legend about a great earthquake that happened a long time ago. The ground came apart and everything was engulfed in flame.

In despair, people cried to the Gods, “Bay gal!” (Fire, stop!), which miraculously stopped the fire and filled the rift with clear water. That was how the lake got its name.

Lake Baikal Geography

Lake Baikal is a continental rift valley fed by more than 300 streams and rivers but drained by only one outlet — the Angara River near Listvyanka. Every year, up to 2,000 earthquake tremors are detected in Lake Baikal, each one increasing the depth and size of the lake.

Some geophysicists predict that Lake Baikal will one day turn into an ocean, as the shores drift further apart by 2 centimetres (0.78 inches) a year, which is the same rate at which Africa and South America drift apart. Like the ocean, Lake Baikal is also the only very deep lake that has oxygenated water at its lowest depth.

Due to the presence of plankton that eat floating debris, coupled with a lack of mineral salts in its water content, Lake Baikal is considered one of the clearest lakes in the world.

Lake Baikal Size

Lake Baikal has the shape of a banana, with a surface area of 31,727 square kilometres (12,250 square miles) that spreads 636 kilometres (395 miles) from north to south. That’s slightly bigger than the country of Belgium!

Lake Baikal Depth

Measuring up to 1,637 metres (5,370 feet) deep from the lakebed to the water surface, Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and contains a fifth of the world’s freshwater supply.

Lake Baikal Ecosystem

Lake Baikal has been nicknamed the “Galapagos of Russia”, due to its exceptional biodiversity. The age, isolation, and high oxygen levels at great depths of the lake have resulted in one of the richest freshwater ecosystems in the world.

At least 80% of the more than 3,700 species found in and around Lake Baikal are endemic, which means that they do not exist anywhere else on Earth. These include the oily, scaleless golomyanka fish, the omul fish, and — probably the most famous of them — the nerpa  (a.k.a. Baikal seal), which is the world’s only freshwater seal.

Scientists believe that the seals might have swum into Lake Baikal all the way from the Arctic through a prehistoric river.

In addition to these rare species, the lake is also home to more than 50 species of fish, and hundreds of aquatic invertebrate species that all help to purify the water.

In surrounding forests, there are bears, reindeer, elks, polecats, wild boars, Siberian roe deer, sables, ermines, and wolves, as well as dozens of tree species, including the native Angara pine tree.

Best Time to Visit Lake Baikal

Lake Baikal is open to visitors all year round, with each season offering its own charms. The best time to visit therefore depends on your weather preference and the kind of activities you plan to do at the lake.

As far as weather goes, summer is the most pleasant time to go, and is perfect for picnicking, swimming, and hiking. However, it also attracts the biggest crowds and tour groups.

Winter is when you get to experience the true beauty and uniqueness of Lake Baikal. To see the lake in its beautiful frozen state, go between October and April, although it may still be icy in May. The weather is manageable as long as you dress appropriately. Prices are also lower in winter.

How to Go to Lake Baikal

The nearest airport to Lake Baikal is in Irkutsk, which is a five-and-a-half-hour flight from Moscow.

You can either fly to Irkutsk or opt for the Trans-Siberian Railway (longest train ride in the world that connects Moscow and Vladivostok). This was what I did. Check out this video to learn more about my journey in the 3rd-class coach of the Trans-Siberian:

There’s also another route that makes a stop in Irkutsk: the Trans-Mongolian, which takes you from Beijing to Moscow via Mongolia, or the other way around.

From Irkutsk, take a bus or drive over to Listvyanka, a popular village located in the western shores of the lake. The buses depart around 4 times a day from the main bus terminal (avtovokzal) in Irkutsk city center (Oktyabrsky Revolutsii Street, #11). The first bus leaves at 7 a.m. and the last bus at around 6 p.m.

If you don’t want to explore independently, there are several tour operators that offer private and group tours. Prices vary depending on the length of the trip and the itinerary.

Top Things to Do at Lake Baikal

No matter what time of the year it is, Lake Baikal has plenty to offer its visitors, especially those who love outdoor activities. Here are some of the things you must do at Lake Baikal:

Exploring Listvyanka

Most visitors to Lake Baikal will stop in Listvyanka, a popular village on the western edge of the lake that also serves as its main gateway and tourism center.

Most shops and tourist facilities are concentrated around this area, including the Baikal Museum, the Siberian Zoo, a food market selling local delicacies, souvenir shops, a tourist information center where you can get a free map, and an observatory at the south of the village.

The village itself is a treat for the eyes, with its quaint architecture, rich flora and fauna, and a laid-back vibe. Nightlife is said to be quite lively with bars and restaurants serving alcohol and playing music, but I didn’t stick around long enough to experience it.

Shopping at the Local Market

Listvyanka is also a good place to indulge in some shopping or mindless browsing. Fares on offer range from typical souvenirs like the matryoshka dolls and T-shirts, to the more unique finds, such as taiga herbs, teas, cedar nuts, and dried fish that can be packed nicely to bring home.

Don’t forget to try the smoked omul fish, a famous local delicacy.

Hiking the Great Baikal Trail

The Great Baikal Trail (GBT) is a circular trail surrounding the lake that originally began as a project to help promote ecotourism, voluntary work, and ecological education in the area.

It now attracts a large number of visitors every year owing to the spectacular scenery and unique flora and fauna along the route. The most popular section of the GBT is the 22-kilometre Listvyanka – Bolshie Koty that takes 5 – 8 hours to hike.

A permit is required to hike or camp along the trail.

Engaging in Water Sports

Many tourists go to Lake Baikal to take part in water sports, such as sailing, speed-boating, and water skiing. Scuba-diving is an especially popular activity due to the water clarity and rich underwater ecosystem.

Taking Part in Winter Activities

Its location in Siberia means that Lake Baikal gets a proper winter that promises a whole range of winter activities every year, including:

• Cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing, tubing, and freeride biking.
• Horse-riding across the lake and through the Siberian taiga to Bolshie Koty village.
• Dog-sleighing.
• Ice-fishing (there are even championships held there every year).
• Riding on snowmobiles.
• An ice marathon on the frozen lake.

Visiting Olkhon Island

Can You Swim in Lake Baikal?

Yes, visitors are allowed to swim in Lake Baikal. Although it’s possible to do so near Listvyanka, the best place to go for a swim is Olkhon Island , which has the best beaches that are relatively shallow and have warmer temperatures.

How Long to Stay at Lake Baikal

Allow at least 2 – 3 days if you wish to see everything Lake Baikal has to offer, including the hiking trails and the island(s). But if you’re short of time, it’s also possible to make a day trip from Irkutsk and only explore Listvyanka.

Where to Stay Near Lake Baikal

There are a range of accommodation options available near Lake Baikal to suit all budgets, from cheap hostels to luxury resorts overlooking the lake. Most of them are concentrated around Listvyanka, with a few on Olkhon island. Here are some of them:

Belka Hostel – A cozy wooden house located in a quiet area, away from the main road and surrounded by nature. Owned by a friendly couple, the hostel is equipped with a communal kitchen, shared bathrooms, and a Russian steam bath. Rates start at RUB 700 per person per night.

Hotel Dauria – Set in the center of Listvyanka, 300 metres from the lakeside, this rustic-style hotel offers rooms with wooden interiors, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, and free toiletries. Barbecue facilities and a steam bath can also be found on site. Rates start from RUB 2,678 per night.

Baikal View Hotel – Located on the picturesque Olkhon Island, this hotel is only 700 metres away from the banks of Lake Baikal and features an outdoor pool, a seasonal sauna, and a restaurant offering regional and European dishes. Each room comes with a private bathroom and panoramic views of the lake. In summer, guests can use barbecue facilities and a bike rental service. Rates start from RUB 9,020 per night.

Additional Tips for Visiting Lake Baikal

When traveling to Lake Baikal, there are a few things to consider to make your visit an enjoyable one:

• Dress appropriately according to weather. In winter, ensure you have adequate coats, jackets, scarves, and gloves to keep yourself warm. In summer, it can still get cold in the evening, so bring some warm clothing in addition to your summer wear.

• There are no ATM machines , so make sure you bring enough cash to last you for your entire stay.
• English is not as widely spoken as in the big cities.
• In summer, there are kayaks, catamarans, quad bikes, and bicycles for rent. In winter, you can rent skates to ride on the frozen lake.
• Before going kayaking, it is wise to ask the locals about weather conditions, as there can sometimes be sudden strong winds that can push you out far from shore.
• Bring insect repellent or anti-mite sprays especially in the summer. Mite bites can bring on high fever, or in severe cases, encephalitis and Lyme disease.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Lake Baikal

Is lake baikal worth visiting.

Given the choice, I would have preferred visiting when it’s frozen solid as I don’t often get to see frozen lakes at home in Southeast Asia. The unique winter road system on the icy lake must be interesting to see and experience.

Still, I think Lake Baikal is worth visiting if you happen to be in Irkutsk — whatever the season may be. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the fact that it is the deepest, oldest, and one of the clearest lakes in the world easily warrant a visit.

Due to a time constraint, I only got to spend a day at Lake Baikal, but I managed to explore Listvyanka, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake shores, and try the smoked omul fish. And I get to brag that I dipped my hands in the deepest lake in the world.

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46 comments.

Wow very details travelogue and nice information. I baca pun rasa macam really excited sebab tak pernah sampai. Nicekan dapat baca semula old travelogue sebelum covid.. sure rindu nak travel again

Terima kasih, Mohd Zarin. Sangat rindu nak travel again sebenarnya. Tapi dengan kelapangan masa yang ada sekarang ni, dapat la juga saya gunakan untuk tulis travelog yang lama2.

Wow!!!!!!!! Best nyer you Dah melawat one of Unesco’s world heritage. Lake Baikal look so beautiful and enchanting.

It’s really beautiful, Fadima. And I have been to quite a few other UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Penang being one of them. Heheh. 🙂

Cantik sangat lake Baital ni.. Bersih je air dia.. Menakjubkan.. Baca entry you memng sesuatu tempat yang menakjubkan

Terima kasih, Nadia. Ya, Lake Baikal ni memang bersih dan jernih, sebab ada hidupan invertebrata yang filter out all the impurities. Cuma saya teringin nak tengok tasik ni sewaktu musim sejuk pulak. 🙂

Now i know rupanya Lake Baikal masuk list UNESCO. Baru2 ni baca pasal new 7 wonders of the world.

P/s: btw nak bgtahu yg ur previous comments detected as broken link bila sis buat checking. I pun rasa pelik coz ur blog is active. Sis tpksa padam broken link tersebut. Sorry ya.

Ya, kak Bell. Ada lebih daripada 1000 World Heritage Sites di seluruh dunia ni sebenarnya. Setakat ni saya baru pernah sampai ke lebih kurang 30+ sites.

Anyway, about the broken links, takpe, kak Bell unlink je semua. Your site doesn’t allow me to enter my URL, kena guna blogger (blogspot) profile, so it links to my old blogger profile yang dah lama tak aktif. But thanks for letting me know. Now saya dah activate balik.

I would love to visit the lake in its frozen state and see the beauty of the vast frozen roads. Tak lama lagi Ummi, the world will be opened once again and we will read more of your adventures lepas semua dah dapat vaksin.

Amen to that, Rawlins. I hope that will be soon. I’d love to revisit the lake in winter too and see the winter road system on the icy lake. Must be wonderful to watch.

Waaa best juga kalau pergi tempat gini,. tapi kelilingnya pun ada semua tempat boleh pergi.. so enjoy aje habiskan masa di situ kan.. time ni sejuk panas ye? Nampak panas tapi angin sejuk..

Ya, sis. Waktu saya pergi ni musim luruh. Walaupun ada matahari, tapi rasa suam2 kuku je. Angin sejuk. Bila matahari dah nak terbenam, lagi la bertambah sejuk. Baju tebal dengan jaket saya tu pun tak cukup.

Tak pernah lagi berkunjung ke Russia. Nampaknya kat sini ada Lake Baikal yang sangat cantik!. Kalau sis ke negara lain pun sis suka tengok permandangan macam ni. Rasa takjub dengan ciptaanNYA.

Betul tu Ezna. Saya pun lebih suka tengok keindahan alam semulajadi berbanding bangunan pencakar langit dsb. Lake Baikal ni lebih cantik sewaktu musim sejuk, kalau musim lain, dia nampak macam laut je.

Cantik lake dia. Boleh mandi ye. Thank you share tips. Yang kena gigit insect sampai demam tu bahaya sungguh

Ya, Marina, boleh mandi, tapi kena tahan sejuk la. Sebab musim panas kat sana pun tak panas macam tempat kita. Yang insect tu, kena hati-hati la terutama sewaktu musim panas.

I.pernah tgk psl lake baikal dalam salah satu rancangan dokumentari. Bila bc dr entri ni.. baru lebih paham dan jelas

Terima kasih, Ayu. Bila saya menulis travelog2 ni pun sebenarnya saya banyak belajar perkara baru tentang tempat2 yang saya lawati. Jadi, kita sama2 tambah ilmu pengetahuan 🙂

Love reading your travelog, details with informative information. I bet u miss travelling over sea right? Hope we can cross border and enjoy travel again

I hope so too, Huda! I miss traveling overseas so much, but on the positive side, I get to use the extra time that I have now to work on my blog. There’s still so much of my previous trips that I haven’t written about.

Wow, another interesting place to be explored in near future ya,.. so, this entire lake will turn into icy solid lake during the winter? That will be even more interesting to explore right.. cool, looking forward to visit places like this..

That’s right, Kitkat — the whole lake will turn solid come winter, although maybe not all is safe for road traffic. It would be so interesting to see. I hope you’ll get to visit it too. 🙂

Lake Baikal masuk list UNESCO! Cayalah.. Memang cantik pun. Pernah tengok dalam rancangan dokumentari. Beruntung Ummi

Terima kasih, Nina. Memang cantik dan unik tempat ni. Bayangkan la, tasik sebesar negara Belgium!

This is going to be one of my pit stops when I eventually drive my car from my home town here in the UK to Japan via Russia! (I also want to do the train but I love road trips even more!). I know the lake isn’t the most scenic (my wife tells me that, she is Russian) but there is plenty to do around the lake as mentioned in the post. I been told 2-3 days is enough to do everything and is a great pit stop. I hope to do this at the end of summer as I don’t fancy getting bitten by all the bugs there. 😀 Great post and love your video on the railway (brings back great memories of Moscow and shopping in the GUM), very in depth and great tips.

Thank you, Danik, and glad you enjoyed the post and video. That sounds like an epic road trip you’re going to make. As someone who can’t really drive a car (I mean I have a license, but I don’t really trust myself to drive long distances on my own), I have to rely on public transports, which took me on some of the most interesting journeys. Anyway, all the best for your upcoming road trip and I hope you’ll enjoy Lake Baikal too. 🙂

What an amazing place and somewhere I hadn’t heard of (even though I have been to Russia) I liked that you went on the world’s longest train journey to see the world’s deepest lake – Russia seems to have a lot of the most extreme stuff!

It does seem to, Angela! Although the main reason I went on the Trans Siberian was for the journey itself and not so much the destination, Irkutsk and Lake Baikal were the perfect ending to my trip. 😀

Oh, this is one of my dreams to visit and explore Lake Baikal one day ! I once read the travelogue of a motorbiker who traveled the Silk Road and had great stories about lake Bakal. Ever since, I have wanted to know more about this place and now I can finally start planning with all the info in this post.

I hope this post will be useful for your future trip to Lake Baikal, Iuliana! I must go and find the motorbiker’s travelogue — sounds interesting!

I can’t believe I had never heard of Lake Baikal, but how breathtakingly beautiful & rich with things to do & see! I find the endemic species the most interesting part… I think if I made it to Russia I would have to scuba dive here. I’d also love to see it when transparent & frozen.

I agree with you, Chloe. The endemic species are the most interesting part. It would be so cool to see animals that are not available anywhere else on Earth. I actually didn’t know about the lake either, until I booked my Trans-Siberian train ticket and wanted to see what was available near Irkutsk. Glad that I did!

Tergeliat lidah nak sebut nama2 tempat. Hari tu baru jer tengok satu dokumentari dengan anak pasal pengembaraan seorang wartawan ker apa kerjanya kurang pasti yang berjudul Trans Siberian Adventure. Ada scene2 yang mendebarkan dengan askar2 Rusia lagi . Dalam hati terus rasa macam tak pergi pun takper walaupun tempat-tempat yang dia singgah tu semua memang cantik..tapi bila nampak dia kat Mongolia alahai terus hati rasa nak pergi jugak walaupun sekali seumur hidup.

Oh, selama saya berada di Rusia (St. Petersburg, Moscow, dan Irkutsk) saya takde pulak nampak askar Rusia atau kekacauan di mana2. Mungkin saya tak sampai ke tempat2 yang dia pergi kot. Mongolia memang saya berniat nak pergi tapi belum ada rezeki lagi. Dengar kata ibu negara Mongolia, Ulan Bataar agak kurang selamat bagi wanita yang travel solo, tapi tak tau la kan. Tu orang kata.

Visiting Lake Baikal is on my husband’s mind also. He keeps telling me that we should go, but it seems it’s quite difficult to get there: five-and-a-half hours flight from Moscow is a long distance. From what you are saying, visiting it in winter would be quite spectacular, but I wonder if it’s not too cold. At any rate, Lake Baikal looks really beautiful and I should probably listen to my husband and go.

Perhaps you should, Anda. 🙂 Five and a half hours from Moscow is a long distance. To make it worthwhile, perhaps you can also explore more around Irkutsk, go to nearby Ulan Ude or cross the border to Mongolia. I imagine the winter in Siberia would be extremely cold, but it should be bearable as long as you have the appropriate winter wear. 🙂

Best baca article you. rasa mcm l yg ada di Lake Baikal tu. nkn sng dpt travel untung you dpt jelajah tempat2 menarik

Terima kasih, Halimah. Semoga Halimah juga berpeluang untuk menjelajah tempat2 tersebut suatu hari nanti. 🙂

I would love to stay long and do the hikes. Lately, my city senses have just got tired and I am always searching for peaceful sojourns. Listvyanka sounds just like a place where you can lose yourself and explore in peace.

Yes, it is, Ambica. Or if you prefer somewhere quieter, perhaps you could also consider Olkhon Island. 🙂

Now this is an amazing post to read. I love everything about it. I had never heard of Lake Baikal before and how funny that it is bigger than Belgium as a country itself. Those seals look adorable and yes this lake has just made it to my list of places to visit. I never knew a lake can be that deep actually.

Me neither, Raksha. Nature is so fascinating, isn’t it?

I also had never heard of Lake Baikal until I started to do the research for my Trans Siberian trip. Would be lovely to see those seals next time. I hope you’ll get to visit it too. 🙂

I have a wish to visit Lake Baikal after I watched a movie about the Gulag. And I would like to visit sometime in winter to see the ice rink. I am interested in hiking the Lake Baikal Trail as well. Whenever I visit Russia, Lake Baikal will definitely be on my list.

I hope you will visit it someday, Amrita! It would be cool to hike the trail and skate on the lake when it’s frozen. All the best for your future trip. 🙂

Lake Baikal is in my list since forever. After this COVID, it’s more difficult now. However, glad that you explained about how to go there. I am interested in the Trans Siberian Railway.

I hope you’ll finally make it to Lake Baikal someday, Shreya. I’m currently working on an article detailing my trip on the Trans Siberian Railway. In the meantime, do watch the video. 🙂

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Plan Your Travel to Lake Baikal Wisely: Best Tips, Travel Bughet, Local Cuisine and Places to Visit

Main Sites to Visit Near Lake Baikal

• Guide to Russia
• Experience Russia

The Best Places to Visit on Lake Baikal

What are the five best places to visit around lake baikal.

• Irkutsk: a lively city founded in the mid-17 th century and home to several historical, cultural and religious landmarks. This is the starting point for most trips to Lake Baikal
• Listvyanka: a resort village hugely popular with tourists, where you can get an introduction to the region’s history, nature and culture and explore the lake shore
• Arshan: a small village a few hours’ drive from Baikal, famous for its medicinal springs and mountainous surrounding landscape
• Olkhon Island: the largest of Baikal’s Islands, Olkhon is the centre of Buryat shamanism and is rich with spiritual sites and beautiful views over the lake
• Svyatoy Nos: a peninsula on Baikal’s eastern shore, where you can trek through mountainous wilderness, admire breathtaking lake views and swim in the warm bays

Irkutsk is one of Siberia’s largest and most vibrant cities and is the base from which most peopletravel to Lake Baikal. It was founded in the mid-1650s and the many notable figures exiled to here during Tsarist times played a significant role in the cultural development of the city, earning Irkutsk the nickname ‘Paris of Siberia’. In Irkutsk you can learn about the history of Russia’s famous exiles at the Museum of the Decembrists andvisit their graves at the Cathedral of the Holy Sign; or walk the city’s historical streets and marvel at the mix of wooden, Classical, and Soviet architecture.Irkutsk is reachable by direct flights from Moscow and St Petersburgas well as via the Trans-Siberian Railway. We would recommend the second option, as it gives you the chance to experience the vast and rich Russian landscape before you reach the treasure at your destination.

Listvyanka village

Listvyanka is a resort village and the most accessible spot on Lake Baikal’s shore, which lies just an hour from Irkutsk. The village hasgreat tourist infrastructure, a number of museums, shops, restaurants and accommodation options, and activities on and around the lake in winter and summer. Here, you can sample Baikal’s famous smoked omul fish, explore the Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture and Ethnography for a glimpse into centuries of ancient indigenous culture, and visit the wooden Church of St Nicholas, an architectural monument built in the mid-1800s. Lovers of the outdoors can hike part of the Great Baikal Trail between Listvyanka and the village of Bolshiye Koty 20 km away, offering magnificent views over the lake. As Listvyanka is the most popular tourist destination on Lake Baikal, it can be fairly busy in summer.

Arshan village

Nestled in the Tunka Valley in the Republic of Buryatia is the village of Arshan . Its name translates as ‘healing water’ in the Buryat language, and the village is famous for itsmedicinal springs and spas. After bathing in the mineral springs, you can explore one of the trekking trails in the surrounding landscape and Sayan Mountains, sample the local Buryat cuisine, and visit the Buddhist temple. Arshan lies a 2-hour drive from the western shore of Baikal and a 3-hour drive from Irkutsk.

Olkhon Island

Stretching 70 km long and 15 km wide, Olkhon is the largest island on Lake Baikal. It is one of the most sacred sites in Asia and since ancient times has been the spiritual centre of Buryat shamanism. On its northern shore is Shamanka Rock (Shaman’s Rock), a site shrouded in myths and legends where local shamans perform their rituals to this day. Adjoining this spiritual site is the popular Saraysky Beach and Khuzhir settlement with its Local Lore Museum. Olkhon is separated from the mainland by the Maloye More (Little Sea), and the island’s northern shores are lined with golden sandy beaches. Baikal’s sheer size and depth mean that its waters are too cold to swim in even in the heights of summer. But the shallower waters of the Maloye More are the perfect place for a dip or a dive.

Svyatoy Nos Peninsula

Rising high above the eastern shores of Baikal, the Svyatoy Nos (Holy Nose) Peninsula offers some of the most breathtaking views of the lake and the islands dotted throughout its deep waters, and ispart of the Zabaikalsky National Park, a pristine swathe of dense forest. A mountain range ascending to Mount Markovruns along the centre of the peninsula and is popular among hikers. On the peninsula’s eastern shore nestles Zmeevaya Bay, where you can find sandy beaches and thermal springs. Svyatoy Nos shields the bay from the strong Baikal winds, making this a great place to swim. North of the peninsula lie the Ushkanyi Islands, a conservation area which the rarespecies of nerpa sealhave made their home, and which you can visit by boat trip.

Express to Russia Lake Baikal Tours

Although Lake Baikal is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international tourists, this truly is an area of remote wilderness and English is not widely spoken in the region. To see the very best that Baikal has to offer, we would recommend taking one of our Lake Baikal private tours. Our tours are fully customisable and can be adjusted to suit your budget. You will be accompanied by our expert English-speaking guides, who ensure that your trip is as interesting and comfortable as possible.

• Lake Baikal Highlights – 3 days and 2 nights

This is our shortest Siberian tour and a fantastic introduction to the region. It includes excursions at the main landmarks of Irkutsk and a whole-day trip to Lake Baikal, with a visit to the Taltsy Museum, lunch at a local restaurant serving Baikal fish specialties, a walking tour around Listvyanka, and a visit to the Baikal Ecological Museum.

• Lake Baikal and Olkhon Island – 6 days and 5 nights

This tour starts with a city tour of Irkutsk and a visit to the Museum of the Decembrists and Cathedral of the Holy Sign. The next day, you’ll head to the Ust-Orda Bur Rachelyat settlement to learn about the local culture and millennia of history of this region, followed by a ceremony with a real shaman. Your Baikal adventure begins with a whole day and night in Listvyanka, followed by a two-day tourof the highlights of Olkhon Island –including a tourof Khuzhir and Shamanka Rock, a picnic on the beach, relaxation in the banya, and a visit to the famous sand dunes lining Olkhon’s northern shore.

Photos by Markus Winkler , Alyssa li ,  Philipp Trubchenko ,  Ekaterina Sazonova ,  Raimond Klavins  

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The Best Way to Enjoy Lake Baikal in Siberia, Russia

When you look at a map of Russia, Lake Baikal in Siberia is hard to miss. By volume, it’s the largest freshwater lake in the world, and also the world’s deepest and oldest lake.

It holds nearly a quarter of Earth’s fresh water. Most people who travel to this region just visit the lake on a short day trip from Irkutsk , from where several companies run Lake Baikal tours.

Nick and I wanted to immerse ourselves in this beautiful landscape as much as possible, though. So, when we heard there was a hike called the Great Baikal Trail, we jumped at the chance to walk it.

Actually, the “Greak Baikal Trail” is not just a hiking trail, it’s also the name of a non-profit organization that works to build trails around the lake and promote sustainable eco-tourism in the region.

The trail and the organization are the brainchildren of Oleg K. Gusev, a Russian writer, photographer and scientist who took inspiration from the Appalachian Trail in the United States.

The main idea behind the Great Baikal Trail, according to the group’s website, is to “build the first system of environmentally sensitive trails in all of Russia”.

Their ultimate goal is to construct a trail that makes a complete loop around the lake. With a perimeter of 2,100 kilometers, they still have a long way to go.

Getting a Permit for the Great Baikal Trail

Even though you probably won't be asked to show it, you need a permit to enter the national park.

Much of the trail runs through Pribaikalsky National Park, and you need a permit to hike or camp inside the park. 

You can get this from the Zapovednoe Pribaikalie office in Irkutsk, located at 291b Baikalskaya St. Alternatively, go to the ranger station on the main road in Listvyanka, which is housed in a two-story old wooden building that’s easy to spot. 

The address is No. 2 Gorkogo Street, and the office is open from 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Thursday and 8 am to 4 pm on Fridays (closed weekends).

A permit costs just 100 rubles (about US$ 1.50), and when we went it was quick and easy to issue. All we had to do was show our passports to the person at the office, and they took care of the rest.

Afterwards, I read on the government website (available only in Russian) that pre-registration with the Ministry of Emergency Situations is also required before you can obtain a permit. No one ever asked us for this, though.

To be honest, no one ever checked our permits either, and it seems unlikely that you would be asked to show yours.

But breaking the law in Russia is generally not a good idea, so I suggest contacting the folks at Lesnaya 7 Hostel in Bolshiye Koty to ask about the latest requirements. The owners of the hostel speak good English and are very helpful.

Getting to the Great Baikal Trailhead

Beautiful views near the headland at Cape Skriper

Minibus or Ferry to Listvyanka

The Siberian city of Irkutsk is known as the gateway to Lake Baikal, but it’s actually about 70 kilometers away from the lake itself. From Irkutsk, most people head to Listvyanka, the closest village on the shores of Baikal.

Listvyanka is a rather unattractive place that’s largely devoted to tourism, but it’s also where you’ll find one of the trailheads for the Great Baikal Trail.

You can walk the trail between Listvyanka and Bolshiye Koty in either direction. Minibuses run fairly regularly between Irkutsk and Listvyanka, while Bolshiye Koty is accessible only by ferry from either Irkutsk or Listvyanka. There are no roads that go there, only the hiking trail.

We took a minibus from Irkutsk to Listvyanka and spent one night there. We then took the ferry from Listvyanka to Bolshiye Koty the next day, spent another night there, and walked back to Listvyanka. 

Ferries run from the end of May to the end of September. In July and August they run daily, while in June and September they run every day except Mondays and Thursdays. Check the ferry company’s website for the latest schedule.

How to Get Ferry Tickets

A one-way ferry ticket from Listvyanka to Bolshiye Koty costs 500 rubles in the low season and 550 in the high season. There is no office that sells ferry tickets in Listvyanka, which we didn’t realize until we arrived there. Oops!

It’s best to buy your tickets in Irkutsk before you set out. In theory, you should be able to buy them online through the ferry company’s website, but that wasn’t working for us. In the end, the boat captain took our money and let us on board, so all was well.

There weren’t many seats left, though, so showing up at the dock without a ticket could be risky.

It also seemed a bit dodgy, since the captain didn’t give us any kind of ticket or proof of payment.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the boat leaves from a barge three kilometers outside the center of Listvyanka. So, give yourself plenty of time to walk there from town. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes.

Ferry to Bolshiye Koty

This butterfly decided to hang out on my toe the whole time we were eating lunch on the trail

Alternatively, you could take the ferry directly from Irkutsk and skip Listvyanka altogether, which I would probably recommend. Listvyanka does not have the end-of-the-world feel that Bolshiye Koty has and is not a must-see sight. 

To be honest, the main strip is a rather tacky tourist trap. It doesn’t have great facilities either (restaurants, grocery stores, etc.), so there’s no real reason to go there. 

For many people, this is all they see of Lake Baikal. If I had only experienced the lake from Listvyanka, I definitely would have been disappointed and would have wondered what all the hype was about.

Lake Baikal is the biggest lake in the world, but that doesn’t make it the most beautiful. On the contrary, bigger is not always better when it comes to landscapes and nature spots.

Case in point: Lake Khuvsgul, the biggest lake in Mongolia and the sister lake of Baikal. We visited this lake a couple of weeks after Baikal, but it turned out to be a huge disappointment.

And at first, I was afraid that Baikal might disappoint us too.

It wasn’t until I got out on the trail that I really appreciated its beauty. With that in mind, instead of spending a total of five nights in the Baikal region like we did, you could achieve essentially the same thing in just three nights. Here’s how it would work:

Spend your first night in Irkutsk, then on your second day take the ferry directly from Irkutsk to Bolshiye Koty, walk to Cape Skriper and back, and stay overnight in Bolshiye Koty. On day three, walk from Bolshiye Koty to Listvyanka and then take a minibus back to Irkutsk. 

If you skip Listvyanka, don’t forget to get your hiking permit in Irkutsk before you set out.

Where to Stay in Listvyanka

The most interesting thing to see in Listvyanka is probably these fun statues dotted around town.

If you do end up staying in Listvyanka, I recommend the Baykal’skiy Domik Guest House. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and the owners are very welcoming. It’s essentially a homestay with a local Siberian family in a typical old wooden house.

The side street where the guesthouse is located also feels much more authentic than Listvyanka’s main drag and has some attractive Siberian wooden architecture. If you don't make it out to the Talsty Museum , walking these backstreets is a reasonable alternative.

Sergei, the owner, doesn’t speak English but is great at non-verbal communication. Guests have access to the family kitchen, which was very handy for us in a village with few vegan dining options. More about that in the “Where to Eat at Lake Baikal” section below.

Click here to see photos of Baykal’skiy Domik Guest House and read more reviews.

Where to Stay in Bolshiye Koty

Bolshiye Koty is a very quiet town with horses, cows and a few people.

I highly recommend staying at Lesnaya 7 Hostel when you’re in Bolshiye Koty. It’s a lovely place with a welcoming, slightly hippie vibe. In addition to dorms, they also have double rooms in log cabins and communal kitchen facilities. 

The owner, Alexei, speaks fluent English and is well-traveled. He and his wife are vegetarian and can make veggie meals for guests with advance notice. 

Bolshiye Koty is a tiny, remote village that really feels cut off from the rest of the world. If you’re looking to relax and unplug for a while, this is the perfect place for a digital detox. You won’t get phone service out here, and Alexei has intentionally chosen not to provide WiFi at the hostel.

There’s even a seasonal Vipassana Meditation Center in the village that opens in June and July. Other than that, there’s not much to do here except read a book or watch the cows and horses grazing.

What to Eat at Lake Baikal

If you want specialty vegan food like hummus, you'll need to bring it from Irkutsk.

For most of our 30-day trip across Russia on the Trans-Mongolian train, eating out as vegans was pretty easy.

See this post for my top restaurant recommendations and tips for finding vegan food in Russia

That being said, we stayed mostly in cities. The two places in Russia where we resorted to self-catering were the Golden Ring town of Suzdal and Lake Baikal.

Lake Baikal was the one place where we really had to plan in advance and do a lot of self-catering. If you’re vegan, I recommend bringing all your food from Irkutsk, as you won’t find many options on the lake.

You can stock up at the Slata supermarket, which has at least two locations in Irkutsk. One is inside the fancy shopping mall in the 130 Kvartal district, and there’s another one closer to the train station. They even have hummus!

In Listvyanka, you’ll find a few small grocery shops, but they only stock the very basics. Also, everything is kept behind the counter, so you won’t be able to check ingredient labels. 

We didn't eat out in any restaurants in Listvyanka, but Mayak Hotel reportedly offers khinkali (Georgian dumplings) with potato filling. Thanks @shhmadventures for the tip!

There is one store in Bolshiye Koty, but it has even less to offer than Listvyanka, and its opening hours are sporadic. Even bread can be hard to come by here. They do at least carry cold beer, cider and other drinks to relax with at the end of a long day’s hike, though.

As mentioned above, Alexei at Lesnaya 7 Hostel in Bolshiye Koty can provide vegetarian meals on request. We didn’t ask for this, but it might be a good idea if you don’t want to carry so much food with you.

And if you're planning to camp overnight in the national park, here are some simple vegan meal ideas for camping .

Wayfinding on the Great Baikal Trail

You'll see signs pointing you the right way along the trail.

The trail is marked on the Maps.me app. I recommend downloading this before you start out, as you will not have phone service while on the trail. Google Maps is not very useful at Lake Baikal, nor anywhere else in Russia.

Read More: Travel Tips and Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Russia

Between Listvyanka and Bolshiye Koty the trail is reasonably well signposted, so you shouldn’t get lost. From Listvyanka, the first few kilometers head inland through the forest, first climbing up to about 400 meters above lake level and then back down to the shoreline. 

The rest of the trail to Bolshiye Koty and beyond to Cape Skriper hugs the coastline along the cliffs that surround Lake Baikal.

Is the Trail Dangerous?

A sign warning of a dangerous section of the trail.

The night before we set out, I watched a YouTube video made by a couple who turned back before reaching Bolshiye Koty because they thought the trail was too dangerous. This freaked me out a bit.

When we walked the trail, though, I didn’t find it very scary at all, and I get scared pretty easily. That being said, if you suffer from vertigo then this is probably not the right hike for you. 

It’s quite narrow in some sections, with a steep drop-off on the lake side. It’s also more difficult if you’re carrying a large backpack, which we saw several campers doing. 

In addition to the risk of falling, other possible dangers to be aware of include snakes and ticks, though we never saw either of these. Vipers and mocassins are the two moderately venomous snakes that live in the area. Ticks can transmit encephalitis and Lyme disease and are most active between April and June.

When to Hike the Great Baikal Trail

Swimming in Lake Baikal is only for the very brave. The water is COLD!

The best hiking weather is in the summer, but even then it sometimes rains. So, you just have to hope for good weather, or have the time to wait it out. 

When we walked the trail in late July, high temperatures were in the high teens, and lows were in the low teens. The lake stays frozen until May, and even in July and August the water temperature rarely gets higher than 16 degrees Celsius. I did see some hardy Russians swimming in the lake, but it was way too cold for me.

Having spent most of our time in Russia in cities, it was great to get out into nature and see some of the vast, wild landscapes of the country. I’m very glad we walked the trail and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys hiking.

I would love to go back in winter and see Lake Baikal when it’s frozen over!

When planning a trip to Russia, the first thing you need to do is apply for your visa! Depending on where you're applying it can take a while.

The documentation requirements vary too, but one document you will definitely need is an invitation letter. Luckily, this is easy to get through ivisa.com . They will process your letter online and send it to you in just 30 minutes! Click here to apply .

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Who is the Nomadic Vegan?

Hi, I'm Wendy. I'm an intrepid traveler, vegan foodie and animal lover. I travel all over the world (117 countries and counting!) uncovering vegan treasures to show you how you can be vegan anywhere. Read more on my About page .

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• A Visit To Lake Baikal Will Definitely Mesmerize You With Its Natural Beauty!

23 Mar 2023

Lake Baikal is the largest and oldest lake of the world that consists of 80% freshwater of the world. The lake is a home for many people and animal species. The lake surrounds the rocks of Olkhon Island which makes the overall place a mesmerizing one. The best season to visit Lake Baikal is from December to April. It is not only a place for tourists but for scientific researchers.

About Lake Baikal

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Lake Baikal is the largest freshwater lake in the world with 23% of fresh surface water. Baikal is formed as a rift valley which makes it the deepest lake with 1642m depth. It is also a shelter for Buryat people who are staying near the lake and for a lot of animal and plant species. Many governmental organizations and research institutes are carrying out their natural research projects on this lake. The tourist attraction also offers various activities according to their seasons.

Being one of the famous tourist attractions, there are a lot of hidden facts about Lake Baikal that people across the world are not aware of. Let’s dig out some interesting facts about the lake.

1. Researchers are not able to determine the exact age of the Lake Baikal as lake exists till 10-15 thousand years and then slowly it dries out.

2. Due to the continuous rifts, it is still expanding by 2m each day. The researchers have named it as ‘small ocean’ because of its large size and increase in water level.

3. Being formed in the heart of the rift zone, as the transformation continues, earthquakes still occur around the lake.

4. The early tribe in the area was Kurykans, the Siberian tribes that inhabited in Lake Baikal in the 6th century.

5. In 1996, Lake Baikal was declared as a UNESCO World heritage site.

Must Read: 19 Cool And Unusual Things To Do In Russia That You’ve Never Heard Before!

Best Time To Visit Lake Baikal

If you want to see the scenic view of the lake then you must visit this place in early summer that is in the month of May and June. Ice usually melts at this time and there is no fog which gives the best view of the lake.

Suggested Read: 8 Cities With Best Russia Nightlife; Say It Aloud, “Lights, Vodka, & Russians!”

Top 5 Things To Do In Lake Baikal

Here is a list of the best things to do in Lake Baikal that will give you a heartwarming experience of visiting it. Take a look!

1. Dog Sledding

Enjoy your adventures in Lake Baikal in winters. Go for dog sledding to experience some thrilling moments in the icy land. Dog sledding is famous in most of the icy regions across the country.

Suggested Read: 10 Places To Visit In Russia To Witness The Beauty Of This Incredible Nation

2. Ice Fishing

What about fishing in winters? You can go for ice fishing at Lake Baikal. No worries the lake becomes 3-2 feet thick that you can drive vehicles across the lake(not heavy vehicles like trucks, buses, etc.). Don’t stop your hobbies because of the season.

Suggested Read: 9 Fabulous Beaches In Russia That Let You Relish The Taste Of The Good Life!

3. Steam Bath

Get yourselves a steam bath in the chilled winters to energize yourselves to continue your activities. Enjoy the traditional Russian bath that gives you relaxation and healthful experience when in Russia.

Suggested Read: 9 Hotels In Russia That Are A Perfect Blend Of Modern Culture And Old-World Charm!

4. Nerpa Spotting

There are several amazing animals living in freshwater. One of these is nepra which are very energetic so it is hard to get them. You can have a view of these animals from a distance. They are chubby and naughty ones.

Suggested Read: Russia Plans To Open A Luxury Hotel In Space By Since Earth Is Too Mainstream!

5. Cruising

Cruising is a great chance to view the scenic surroundings of the lake and get the cool breeze of the atmosphere. Feel the nature and the pleasant atmosphere of the place. Do not forget to include this in your itinerary and enjoy with your loved ones.

How To Reach Lake Baikal

You can reach this destination via train, bus, and road. You can enjoy the scenic view of the places in Trans-Siberian Railway and by bus. Several buses are available from the Irkutsk station throughout the day.

Further Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Alaska That Offer Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience

Enjoy your vacations in Lake Baikal and get to know more about the place. Create joyful moments during your journey to Russia . So, what are you waiting for? Gather your friends and family and get ready for the tour.

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How to maximize your visit to Lake Baikal

A little Lake Baikal History

How big is lake baikal, olkhon island, volkonsky house-museum, usadba sukacheva, trubetskoy house-museum, what to eat at lake baikal, tour at lake baikal, things to know before going, when to visit lake baikal.

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A piece of raw Siberia resting in the far east of Russia which is remote and way different from the bustling life of Moscow and St Petersburg, is what attracts the most visitors. Some of these following Lake Baikal facts could get you to gravitate towards the place. Surrounded by mountains, shores lined with dense Trans-Baikal conifer, pine forest and taiga and utter wilderness beyond sight, Lake Baikal is sapphire-blue and balmy. In winter, it is dotted with lumps of blueish ice and flounced by the mild sun and chilling winds. From boating across the lake to visiting the quaint settlements in Irkutsk and Listvyanka or just admiring the 2000 km long shoreline, Lake Baikal is a great holiday destination.

A geographical phenomenon, panoramic Lake Baikal is estimated to have been formed about 25 to 30 million years ago. The highlight of Eastern part of Siberia, summer travellers can enjoy the awe-inspiring vistas of the blue waters to the towering mountain ranges across the shore. For the curious winter visitors, the powder-white frozen surface and icy road conditions give gobsmacking opportunities to witness rare sights. Whether travellers prefer to go swimming in the lake, drink its nectar pure water, trek around the southern trip or sledge, cycle in winter- Siberia does offer you enough.

Another one of many interesting Lake Baikal facts is its strategic location on the border of Irkutsk Oblast and Republic of Buryatia . The nature and coast along Irkust Oblast are diverse with several options for tourists to take in the sights. Hop on to a hydrofoil trip from Irkutsk across the water to Bolshie Koty. Nerpas (Baikal seals), an endemic freshwater seal found only in Lake Baikal, is another one of the many Lake Baikal facts. On the dry land amidst the forested and mountainous shores of the lake you could find elks, bears, wolves and lynx if you are lucky. The animals are generally shy and wary of human so you may not always spot them but there will be warning signs of their presence.

At 5,370 feet, the world’s deepest lake contains a fifth of the world’s fresh water. It provides habitat to over 2000 animal and plant species that only inhabit the lake and its surroundings. The lake is larger than the country of Belgium and the crystal-clear quality of the water offers visibility to a depth of up to 40 meters. For an appreciation of the size of the lake, hop on to a boat for a trip. As the land fades away from sight, you gradually sink into the enormity of the lake and feel like you are wandering on an ocean.

Olkhon Island on the territory of Irkutsk Oblast is a main attraction at Baikal. With its own lakes, terrain that includes steppe, forests and mountains, hiking is a favorite activity for adventurous travelers. A dip in Lake Baikal could be invigorating even though the water is icy and could send deep shivers down your flesh. Another interesting Lake Baikal fact is the presence of ethnic groups for years. The shamanistic Buryat people still reside in wooden cabins across the lake shore and their settlements can be seen from the water as you go boating on the lake.

Baikal is in the shape of a banana. It spreads 636 kms from north to south and is about 1637 m deep. This makes it the world’s deepest lake and contains about one-fifth of the unfrozen fresh water of the whole planet. The beauty of the place is that it is fed by 300 rivers and drained by just one – Angara River near Listvyanka. During the winter, you can drive across the lake (in January the lake is frozen upto a solid 2 m, which means almost 7 ft thick). The water turns into a deep shade of blue and the ice is a bright turquoise. You can also see streaks of white from crisscross patterns on the ice. It is possible to see right through the ice and view the lakebed. When you set foot, it feels like you are walking on glass. Boat trips, buryat culture, hiking trails, wilderness is characteristic of this place- The Pearl of Siberia and the deepest lake in the world.

If you have read The Princess of Siberia, then you can relate to the Volkonsky House-Museum. The museum is a house in duck-egg-blue and white of Decembrist Count Sergei Volkonsky. The house was renovated in 1980’s and tells the story of the family of Count Sergei and his wife Maria Volkonskaya (the main figure in the book) when in exile in Irkutsk.

It would be hard to guess but one among the very popular Lake Baikal facts is that Siberia was famous for timber architecture. Irkustsk takes the lead as the city to enhance the visitor’s experience. An entire quarter of space is recreated with wooden buildings and 130 Kvartal, is a pleasant place to stroll. The place is bustling with cafes, restaurants and commercial museums with an impressive 21 st century mall that culminates at the end of the space.

Usadba Sukacheva is a small park on the edge of the historical center in the town of Irkutsk. With a smattering of beautiful building laced with wood and arbors, the houses contain exhibits that are dedicated to the family of the 19 th century benefactor Valdimir Sukhachev. He lived here until the October Revolution. Period furniture and paintings by Spanish and Dutch art connoisseurs accentuates the ambiance of this tourist spot. The “perfect photo” opportunity is the recreated “winter garden” which is an indoor greenhouse replete with tropical plants.

A visit to the Znamensky Monastery will only add a subtle tinge of peace and calm to your visit. The gorgeous interior with mural vaulting, gigantic iconostasis and a gold embellished sarcophagus that holds the relic of Siberian missionary St Inokent will suffice to invoke your zen.

The Trubetskoy House-Museum, as per Lake Baikal facts is the second Decembrist house-museum that was revived after a renovation. A perfectly symmetrical mini mansion, it was built for the daughter of Decembrist Sergei Trubetskov. The mansion was built after the original Trubetsky house near the Znamensky Monastery was burnt down in 1908. There are two floors, in which the lower level is dedicated to the story of the Decembrists’. The upper level displays the personal items that belong to Trubetskoy’s French wife who passed away in Irkutsk.

Although many believe that Lake Baikal and its surrounding areas are inaccessible, Listvyanka is one of the most accessible places. It is located about 70 kms from Irkutsk and is one of the most picturesque areas of the lake. The Angara River flows from Baikal and the place is perfect to admire the crystal-clear water and the snow-capped mountain peaks of Chaman-Daban on the opposite side.

The Architectural and Ethnographic Museum Taltsy, located about 20 kms from Listvyanka is a great spot for those who enjoy culture and history. The open-air museums that have wooden buildings from the 17 th -19 th century bring alive a lot of unknown Lake Baikal facts and also depicts a lot of the life of the locals. The entry is priced affordably at 3.5 Euros and a personal tour would cost about 21 Euros.

If you want to delve deep into Lake Baikal facts, then visit the Baikal Museum which is just 4 kms from Listvyanka. It hosts an interactive session to get acquainted with the nature of Baikal and gives a virtual dive into the bottom of the place.

Listvyanka’s best viewpoint which is Chersky Rock that overlooks the source of the Angara and is named after Jan Czerski, a Polish explorer. Access it by a cable car from the Eastland ski resort. The resort is not very far from the Baikal Museum and the cable car journey is priced at 50 Euros for a return journey.

At an altitude of 700 meters, Chersky Stone viewpoint should be your next halt after the museum. Hire a chair lift to the top and take pictures of panoramic views and come down through the forest serpentine. Stick to the village path to enjoy some local food.

Lake Baikal won’t cease to amaze you. Nerpinariy is where you must head to regale yourself in the acrobatic performance of the freshwater seals.

Snippets of tourism in winter are an interesting feature of Lake Baikal. Day excursions on hovercrafts are popular in inter with stops in Peshanaya Bay, Bolshie Koty and Bolshoye Goloustnoye. You can see the Baikal ice complemented by bubbles that freeze in the icy conditions due to methane.

The Great Baikal trail is a definite feature in the Lake Baikal facts. A project that you could undertake on your own without any tour guide, it is a scenic route along the Baikal coast from Listvyanka. A section of 25 kms up to Bolshie Koty is recommended and all you need is a good pair of sports shoes. The grandeur of this trail is the change you will see in every 5 kms. First you have to cross the coniferous forests, followed by the rocky coasts, then climb down to the water and finally reach at the beach and the shore.

Want to visit the bygone Soviet era? Then head to Retro Park near the St Nicholas Church. It is full of wacky sculpture pieces that are modeled and fashioned from old Soviet-era cars and motorbikes. You can check a few samples on the railings of the embankment to know what to expect when you get there.

An interesting Lake Baikal fact that tourists would not be aware of or even expect is that Lake Baikal is close to the Mongolian region in China and the Mongolian market in the Arshan and Tunka valley is where traders bring Mongolian herbs, spices, clothes and leather goods from across the border. A makeshift market stretches for a few hundred meters along the spectacular Kyngyrga Valley and the interior territory of Kurort Arshan.

Tips for Hikers

Are you an avid trekker or hiker? Then visit the Buryat side of Baikal. A well-known Lake Baikal fact is that this part is where travellers travel with tents and go on hiking following the Mount Svyatoy Nos trail. When you arrive at the Bay you can set up camp there. Listen to music, eat, drink alcohol and just soak the culture. Early next morning start your trek to the mountain top. At an altitude of 1870 m, you have organized excursions that will take you to the top. It is the perfect viewpoint to see the breath-taking view and the perfect photo to frame your holiday experience.

How about a barbecue on the shores of the world’s deepest lake? Food and wine by the lovely calming waters against the backdrop of the mountains is something to lookout for; operators organize barbecues where tourists can take part in preparations of typical Baikal fish culinary delights. Tourists learn from age old recipes and you can enjoy a 5-course meal.

Interesting tour would be a journey in the Circum-Baikal Railway which will help you marvel at the engineering genius of the late 19 th century. The journey traverses through the dense Baikal National Park through the forest, going down to the river and following the stones in the tunnels with the warm breeze blowing through your face.

When travelling to Baikal, it is important to know a few things that will help you enjoy your trip without any hindrances. Stock yourself with anti-mite sprays. A mite bite may only cause high fever but a few odd ones could cause encephalitis and Lyme disease. Summer months can be quiet cold during the evenings. So apart from summer clothes, make sure you have a stock of warm clothing. If travelling in winter, you must ensure that you have adequate coats, jackets, gloves, scarves to wrap yourself warm. There are no ATM machines, so you need to be stocked with enough cash. Make sure you visit the travel exchange counters to convert your money into local currency to avoid any problem. English is not widely spoken and only a few locales in the city are well-versed with the language. You will encounter tourists and locals who are inebriated, and it is better to avoid them than to get into an argument.

If you are visiting any of the islands, you can hire quad bikes or bicycles to hop around the place. In the winter, you can hire skates to ride on a frozen lake. Kayaks and catamarans are also popular in summer. You can hire a kayak and canoe down the lake at a leisurely pace. It is advisable to consult locals about weather conditions as there can be sudden bouts of wind blows that can push you to the middle of nowhere.

Although summer would be the time you would want to visit, it is recommended to avoid the summer. Summer crowds and large tour groups could dull your experience and winter could be a great time to visit. October to April is the ideal time although you could catch the lake icy even in May. Winter is when you can experience the lake at its atmospheric best. The lake in winter is quintessentially Siberian and perfect. The weather is manageable if your dress appropriately. Lake Baikal is just five and a half flight hours from Moscow. You can fly to Irkutsk or even opt for the Trans-Siberian Railway to Irkutsk. There is also a journey that starts in Beijing and travels through Mongolian, where you can actually catch a slice of the Siberian plains and stop of at various points of interest. The Golden Eagle Train provides a more luxurious journey with fine compartments and dining. You can travel in groups at various halts and experience Russian history. There are a range of accommodation options available and you can book yourself into small hotels or luxury resorts that overlook the lake and offer extravagant services. You will find several eateries and restaurants in Irkutsk and Listvyanka. Try the local cuisine, the bakery items and fish delicacies to experience the local taste. If you don’t want to wander on your own, then there are several tour operators who offer customized tours to enjoy the beauty of the place. Prices vary according to the number of days and itinerary of the trip. You can also indulge in some shopping at the local market and stock up on cedar nuts, taiga herbs and Siberian fish that can be packed nicely to retain freshness. Nightlife in Lake Baikal is quite colorful with several bars and restaurants serving alcohol and great food to complement it.

Lake Baikal is a perfect place for those who seek some respite for busy lives and solitude to rejuvenate their senses and spirits. With its idyllic surroundings, gorgeous beaches and islands and scaling mountain tops, Lake Baikal is fast emerging as a top tourist destination for the discerning traveller. Tourists heading to Russia are now beginning to be inspired by the beauty of Lake Baikal and want to experience the magic of the lake and the surreal beauty of the place. So, look no further and plan your next holiday to this amazing place to unwind in the lap of nature.

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Lake Baikal and More of the Weirdest Lakes of the World

Set deep within the Russian subcontinent, Baikal is the deepest, oldest and most voluminous of all lakes

Alastair Bland

No lake is more lake than Lake Baikal. Set deep within the Russian subcontinent, Baikal is the deepest, oldest and most voluminous of all lakes, a superstar of superlatives in hydrology, geology, ecology and history. The lake is more than 5,300 feet deep (exact figures vary) at its most profound point, which lies about 4,000 feet below sea level. With 12,248 square miles of surface area, Baikal averages 2,442 feet deep—its crescent moon-shaped figure a vast rift valley that first appeared about 25 million years ago through the divergence of the planet’s crust. Today, Lake Baikal contains some 20 percent of the earth’s lake and river water, making this Russian giant comparable in volume to the entire Amazon basin . So huge is Baikal that it reportedly takes an average of 330 years for a single water molecule to flow through it, from inlet to outlet. Lake Baikal features 27 islands, including one 45 miles in length called Olkhon , while in and around Baikal live more than 1,500 animal species, about 80 percent of which live nowhere else on the planet.

The most famous of these animals may be the nerpa , the only exclusively freshwater seal on the planet. The nerpa numbers an estimated 100,000 —a comfortable and well-adapted population of animals whose presence in interior Russia has stumped evolutionary biologists, who aren’t certain when or just how the animals came to be so far from the open ocean. Guided tourist outfits can provide visitors with views of the animals, though the seals are generally skittish around people, who have long hunted them for pelts, fat and flesh. Brown bears and wolves dwell near the lake, too, occupying the top tiers of the Siberian food chain, as do a variety of deer, birds, rodents and smaller predators.

The first European to visit Lake Baikal may have been Russian Kurbat Ivanov , in 1643, though local lore claims that Jesus took a short walk to Lake Baikal and back during his days of desert wandering. Today, a wilderness of forest, plains and semidesert surrounds Baikal in the grand landscape of Siberia, though development along the shores of the lake occurred last century with the building of several urban and resort communities. Ugliest, perhaps, among the defilements of Baikal’s coastline is a paper mill that discharged pollutants into Baikal for years before being closed in 2008 on grounds of ecological protection . But the mill reopened in 2010, supposedly using cleaner and safer practices than previously. Meanwhile, local conservationists have other causes of concern . They have, for example, resisted plans to build a uranium plant in the nearby city of Angarsk . And they raised a stink when a petroleum development company called Transneft nearly built an oil pipeline that would have passed within 3,000 feet of Lake Baikal, threatening its waters with leaks and spills. The planned pipeline route was eventually changed. Tourism development is a minor itch in comparison, though it may produce eyesores like the hotels and vacation communities of Listvyanka , a popular winter and summer tourist town.

If you visit Lake Baikal, remember that winters here are frigid and icebound, with continental cold snaps bringing temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees Fahrenheit and producing a layer of surface ice as thick as two meters. Summertime is friendlier, offering long, long days and superb opportunities for hiking, biking, camping and fishing. Along the lake’s northern shore, the Frolikha Adventure Coastline Track leads 65 miles through the wilderness. How to reach Lake Baikal? Try the legendary Trans-Siberian Railway .

Other Weird Waters

Dead Sea . Almost nine times as salty as the ocean, with a salinity level of about 30 parts per hundred, the Dead Sea—the lowest point on earth—is inhospitable to nearly all living things, but it’s a blast to bathe in. The water’s salt-boosted density is so great that people endowed with a generous layer of body fat can hardly swim and may merely flail over the surface as if they were crawling across a sandy dune. Better not to try and, instead, just turn over on your back and enjoy the bizarre wonder of a lake in which it may be almost impossible to drown. The Dead Sea’s surface lies 1,378 feet below sea level, and it is 1,083 feet deep. This just in: Life-forms have been found associated with freshwater springs at the bottom of the Dead Sea. Time for a name change?

Lake Titicaca. At 12,500 feet above sea level in a high valley in the Andes Mountains, the giant Lake Titicaca is the loftiest lake commercially navigable by large boats and contains more water than any other lake in South America. Its two main ports are Puno, Peru—a beautiful old town steeped in Incan history—and Challapampa, Bolivia. Isla del Sol is an island on Titicaca’s Bolivian side. Strewn with ruins but without a single paved road, this large island is an adventurer’s playground. Get yourself a fishing rod and a canoe, and go.

Melissani Cave Lake . Locals allegedly knew about the Melissani Cave Lake in Greece all along, but if they did, the world never heard about it until 1953, when an earthquake caused a collapse of rock, exposed the crystal-clear lake and brought sunlight and color to its waters for the first time. The lake has since gained fame—and it happens to be located on the island that Homer named as the home country of Odysseus .

Wuhua Hai Lake. Widely lauded as one of the most beautiful lakes on earth, Wuhua Hai is located in Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, in the high mountains of Sichuan, China. The waters are emerald blue and clear as air, and over the shallow lake bed lie scores of sunken logs visible from above the surface. Forested mountain slopes rise from the lake’s shore, and wild pandas dwell in the woods.

Plitvice Lakes. A chain of 16 lakes connected by streams, caves and waterfalls, the Plitvice Lakes of Croatia gleam in a spectrum of blue to azure colors and demonstrate beautifully what water, nature’s finest sculptor, may make of a soft basin of limestone. The dense green woods surrounding the lakes are home to bears, wolves, eagles and numerous other creatures protected in this national park and Unesco World Heritage site.

Aral Sea . A reminder of the devastating effects of agriculture gone haywire, the Aral Sea in Uzbekistan has just about dried up since 1960. The two rivers that fed this once-giant inland sea (330 rivers feed Baikal, for comparison) no longer get there, diverted to fields instead. And while the Aral’s blue ovoid shape still appears on most world maps, cartographers must surely soon realize that the sea, once one of the largest and most productive inland waterways and fisheries, has all but dried up, sacrificed over a mere 50 years for the sake of local cotton and rice.

Salton Sea . This lake in southern California’s Imperial Valley is another testament to sloppily conducted water projects—but unlike the diminishing Aral, the Salton Sea was born in the wake of a breach in a diversion canal in 1905. For years the Salton Sea was a productive fishery, but today its increasingly saline waters are so polluted that huge fish die-offs keep the shores littered with decay and rot, and fishermen are advised not to eat the corvina and tilapia they catch.

Lake Karachay . Don’t visit this lake—ever. Just read: Set in the Ural Mountains of western Russia, Karachay has been called the most polluted place on the planet, teeming with radioactive waste and particulates that you want nothing to do with. What a wonder that before the age of modern progress, one could drink from this poisonous cesspool.

So, which ones did we miss? Tell us about more watery wonders in the comment box below.

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Alastair Bland | | READ MORE

Alastair Bland is a journalist based in San Francisco who writes about the environment, agriculture, science and food.

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Lake Baikal: The World’s Deepest Freshwater Lake

When God was creating the world, he specifically created some places for the peace seekers and silent watchers, for the people who just want a quiet corner that soothes the soul and gratifies the heart and Lake Baikal in Russia is one such place with the charisma of a fine-cut gem. With pristine clear water, hemmed in with monumental hills on one side and the skyline itself on the other, Lake Baikal is the perfect specimen of nature’s grandeur.

There are many  places to visit in Russia   but Lake Baikal is not just a tourist destination. In 1996, UNESCO declared Lake Baikal a World Heritage Site. However, it is beyond your  tourist - y  aspirations, it is something that you can only experience. People from around the world come to Russia to witness the phenomenon, to experience the calming aura, and behold the immaculate beauty of the place.

However, there are things about Baikal lake that are as fascinating as Baikal itself. Here are some facts about Lake Baikal that will surely intrigue you enough to book a  tour package to Russia  and visit Baikal:

It is the world’s deepest lake

A rift lake, Baikal is situated in southern Siberia and is the deepest lake in the world with a depth of 5,387 ft. The lake bed is 3,893 ft below sea level which makes it the deepest continental rift on Earth. With a seismically active fault zone, earthquakes and hot springs commonly occur every few years. Further, the lake is divided into three basins are North with 3,000 ft of depth, Central with 5,200 ft of depth, and South with 4,600 of depth. And… you can also deep dive in Baikal Lake. Yes, you can deep dive into World’s deepest freshwater lake. However, you do not necessarily have to go all the way down. At a depth of 25 to 30m, you will be able to witness all the wonderful creatures of Lake Baikal.

It is the largest

And Baikal is also the largest freshwater lake. Lake Baikal has a length of 636 km and a breadth of 81 km and becomes the narrowest near the Serenga Delta, which is 27 km. With the world’s largest volume of freshwater of 23,000 cubic km, Baikal Lake has one-fifth of all the fresh water in the world. One can go hiking or camping around Lake Baikal. It may take 5 to 8 hours to hike. Great Baikal Trail or also known as GBT is a Russian non-profit organisation that works to build a trail around Baikal. GBT has, successfully, organised more than 180 international projects to build or restore trails throughout the Siberian regions of Irkutsk and Buryatia with the help of over 4500 volunteers from around the world. As we mentioned earlier, Lake Baikal is more than just a tourist destination.

And the oldest…

Now, along with being the world’s largest and deepest freshwater lake, Baikal is also the oldest lake in the world. Around 25 million years old, Baikal is inhabited along with the Buryat tribes, descendants of tribal Mongols. Sources mention that primeval communities lived around Lake Baikal since around the 6th century B.C. It is also mentioned that it was the battle site in the Han-Xiongnu War which took place from 133 B.C. to A.D. 89. Long story short, Baikal has a vast and rich history, and someone with an eye for beauty and history will definitely have a lot to explore.

The Right Time to Visit Baikal Lake

One of the amazing facts about Lake Baikal is that it has warmer winters and colder summers. Yes, as strange as it may sound, the water bodies of the lake work as a natural stabilizer, causing the unusual microclimate conditions. In winters, the lake is covered by a gloriously clear sheet of ice. If you visit Lake Baikal, October to April is ideal to witness the classic Siberian winters. And if you wish to experience Baikal at its climatic best, then May Winter can be a perfect time.

There are innumerable things and facts about Baikal that make it a perfect place for the curious minds, for the people who seek answers while its pristine beauty and blissful tranquil aura are for the wanderlusts. Baikal Lake is a place that fills your soul with so much peace and harmony that you do not want to leave, you wish to stay there a little longer. And, your camera won’t be able to capture the emotion your heart and soul will. So, before you take out your cameras, take in the glory of Baikal Lake.

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'Worrisome and even frightening': Ancient ecosystem of Lake Baikal at risk of regime change from warming

Lake Baikal, the largest and most ancient of freshwater ancient lakes, had its start in the time of the dinosaurs and began to take its modern form well before the appearance of our own lineage, the Homininae.

Lake Baikal, in southern Siberia, is the world's oldest and deepest freshwater lake and, due to its age and isolation, is exceptionally biodiverse — but this remarkable ecosystem is under threat from global warming. In this excerpt from Our Ancient Lakes: A Natural History (MIT Press, 2023), Jeffrey McKinnon examines the regime shift that is now taking place at the lake. 

As the largest and deepest of freshwater lakes, with a vast volume comprising 20% of the planet's liquid fresh water, one might expect Lake Baikal to be resistant to change. Thus, there was a good deal of interest when comprehensive analyses began to appear in the 2000s of the 60-year data sets collected by Mikhail Kozhov, Olga Kozhova and Lyubov Izmest'eva . 

These and other data show clearly that Baikal is warming and that the annual duration of ice is shrinking. It is also becoming apparent that these changes are affecting the lake's organisms indirectly through effects on other physical processes in the lake as well as directly. In some cases, changes in physical processes are affecting how organisms interact with each other.

In the first major report presenting comprehensive analyses of the data collected by the Kozhov family, Stephanie Hampton , of the U.S. National Center for Ecological Analysis and Synthesis (now at the Carnegie Institution for Science), Izmest'eva and a team of collaborators from multiple institutions reported on the biological changes that had accompanied the warming of Baikal. 

They found that algal mass has been increasing overall, as have the numbers of a group of widely distributed zooplankton known as cladocerans, which do well at higher temperatures. In contrast, the endemic, cold-loving Epischurella (a type of small crustacean) has been either declining slightly or stable. Owing to physiological and other differences between the different types of zooplankton, Hampton, Izmest'eva and colleagues suggest that if these trends persist or intensify, patterns of nutrient cycling in the lake could be substantially affected, with broad ecological consequences.

In a complementary analysis of data from shallow sediment cores, an international team led by British scientists George Swann (University of Nottingham) and Anson Mackay (University College London) looked at how natural and human-driven changes have affected nutrient and chemical cycling, and ultimately changes in algae productivity. Their time frame of 2,000 years was longer, but still comparatively recent. Their most important conclusion is that since the mid-19th century, the supply of key nutrients has greatly increased, from the nutrient-rich deeper waters to the nutrient-limited shallower waters where light is high and algae can be productive. 

Related: 'Hunter-gatherers must have gazed in horror' — What would Toba's supereruption have been like for our ancient relatives?

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They suggest that this is the result of documented increases in wind strength over the lake, which can cause more extensive "ventilation" of deep waters. The cause of increased wind strength is not yet known with confidence, but decreased ice cover along with increased air and surface-water temperatures likely contribute.

Hampton and Izmest'eva have built on these and other findings in a mathematical model of the Baikal open water ecosystem, developed with several additional collaborators including Sabine Wollrab of Michigan State University and Berlin's Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries. In the model, they seek to integrate biological interactions between organisms with changes in the physical environment. Their goal is to better understand the causes of the recent changes in seasonal patterns of algae abundance, especially in the winter. 

Baikal, with sunlight penetrating its clear winter ice, has traditionally had a peak in algae productivity in the winter and early spring — yet another unusual feature of this system. In the late 20th century, these peaks were often delayed, weaker, or simply absent. The Kozhov family's data detected these patterns, which can seldom be evaluated in lakes, because of their determined sampling through the winters. 

The model, which takes into account Epischurella abundance and grazing, and considers separate populations of cold-adapted and warm-water-adapted algae, suggests that these changes in algae abundance may be largely the result of reduced annual ice cover, and that if ice coverage continues to diminish the winter algae peak may disappear altogether. The model is somewhat complex, but its predicted outcomes arise at least in part from the greater ability of the Epischurella to suppress algae population growth by eating the algae when there is less ice cover. 

The model describes a "regime shift," a steplike switch from one state of a system to a different state involving a different range of variation. No model is final, and this one may evolve as our understanding of the ecological interactions evolves, but the contrast between regime shift and steady, gradual change is worrisome and even frightening.

It indicates that global warming and other human-generated environmental changes may sometimes cause abrupt shifts in ecosystems that may be hard to both predict and reverse. 

Lake Baikal, the largest and most ancient of freshwater ancient lakes, had its start in the time of the dinosaurs and began to take its modern form well before the appearance of our own lineage, the Homininae. 

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Yet it only assumed its current deep and thoroughly oxygenated character in the late Pleistocene (2.6 million to 11,700 years ago). Among its diverse endemic fauna, its gammarid amphipods and sculpins are especially well studied. Species from both radiations are uncharacteristically important in open water food chains and also as prey for the planet's only species of freshwater seal, the nerpa ( Pusa sibirica ). 

Other gammarid and sculpin species are important in Baikal's highly distinctive abyssal vent and seep communities, which are energized by methane percolating up into the deep lake's sediments and waters. 

As the biodiverse ancient lake at the highest latitude, Baikal is showing the direct and indirect effects of global warming on its physical and biological systems and processes. The lake may be experiencing an ecological regime shift that should give pause to creatures living in a larger yet still finite ecosystem — one that is quickly heating too.

Excerpted from Our Ancient Lakes: A Natural History, by Jeffrey McKinnon. Published by The MIT Press. Copyright © 2023 MIT. All rights reserved.

Our Ancient Lakes: A Natural History - <a href="https://target.georiot.com/Proxy.ashx?tsid=74387&GR_URL=https%3A%2F%2Famazon.com%2FOur-Ancient-Lakes-Natural-History%2Fdp%2F0262047853%3Ftag%3Dhawk-future-20%26ascsubtag%3Dhawk-custom-tracking-20" data-link-merchant="Amazon US"" target="_blank"> $25.30 at Amazon

Shining a light on a class of biodiversity hot spot that is equivalent to coral reefs in the ocean or tropical rainforests on land, "Our Ancient Lakes" chronicles in a refreshingly personal and accessible way the often singular wonders of these venerable water bodies.

Jeffrey McKinnon received his BSc from the University of British Columbia and his PhD from Harvard University. A Professor of Biology at East Carolina University, his research has taken him to every continent but Antarctica and has appeared in journals including Nature and the American Naturalist.

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• The Old Ranger According to the timeline based on the Bible, the world is only a little over 6000 years old, so the timing given by the scientists is totally out of whack. And I seriously doubt this world will last much more than 200 years, if not 100 years, the way we are going.... so no sweat on this one. :cool: Reply
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