Baikal, the deepest freshwater lake in the world 
Automatic translate
Lake Baikal, located in southern Siberia in Russia, is one of the most unique and beautiful places in the world. It is the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world, containing about 20% unfrozen surface fresh water. The lake is home to thousands of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. You can get to Baikal from Irkutsk in 1 day; the tour can be planned in advance from home.
Tourism on Lake Baikal is developing and there are many accommodation options and attractions. Lake Baikal is a stunning destination with a wide range of accommodation options and attractions to suit every budget and interest.
Where to stay
Luxury Hotels : There are several luxury hotels in the area, such as the Baikal Hotel, which offers stunning lake views, comfortable rooms and a range of amenities.
Eco-lodges : For a more eco-friendly and immersive experience, consider staying in an eco-lodge. One option is the Baikal Ecological Centre, which offers rustic accommodation and a range of activities such as hiking, bird watching and boat trips.
Hostels and Guest Houses : There are also a few budget options, such as the Baikal Hostel and Listvyanka Guest House, which offer basic accommodations and a more authentic experience.
Attractions:
Circum-Baikal Railway : This historic railway offers a unique way to explore the lake and its surroundings. The train runs along the edge of the lake, offering stunning views and allowing you to spot local wildlife.
Listvyanka village : This picturesque village is a popular place among tourists. There are attractions here such as the Baikal Museum, the Shaman Stone and the Church of St. Nicholas.
Olkhon Island : This is the largest island in the lake and is home to several small villages as well as the impressive Cape Burkhan. This is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Ice Festival : If you visit Lake Baikal in winter, don’t miss the annual Ice Festival, which features ice sculptures, ice skating and other winter activities.
Story
The history of this region is closely intertwined with the geological, climatic and cultural development of the peoples inhabiting the surrounding areas.
Education : Lake Baikal is believed to have formed about 25-30 million years ago, making it the oldest and deepest freshwater lake in the world. It is located in a rift valley, which was formed as a result of the movement of the Earth’s tectonic plates. Over millions of years, the rift valley deepened, causing the lake to become increasingly deeper.
Biodiversity : Lake Baikal is home to a unique and diverse ecosystem. The lake is home to about 1,700 species of plants and animals, two thirds of which are found nowhere else in the world. The most famous of them is the Baikal seal, the only freshwater seal in the world. The unique biodiversity of the lake is due to its isolation, depth and age.
Human settlement : The first human settlements around Lake Baikal appeared in the Paleolithic era, about 20,000-30,000 years ago. Various indigenous tribes lived in this territory, such as the Buryats, Evenks and Teleuts. These tribes relied on the lake for survival, fishing and hunting.
Research and discovery : The first European exploration of Lake Baikal was recorded in the 17th century, during the reign of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Russian geographer Erofei Pavlovich Khabarov led an expedition to the lake in 1643. In subsequent centuries, the lake became an important trade and transport route connecting Siberia with the rest of Russia.
Cultural significance : Lake Baikal was an important cultural and spiritual site for the indigenous peoples of the region. Buryats consider the lake sacred, believing that it is the home of their ancestors. The unique beauty of the lake and its spiritual significance have inspired many artists, writers and photographers over the years.
Lake Conservation Efforts : In 1996, Lake Baikal was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognizing its outstanding natural and cultural values. This has led to increased efforts to protect the lake and its unique ecosystem from pollution and other threats.