Listvyanka
On the banks of the glittering waters of Lake Baikal, with the snowy peaks of Khamar Daban mountains in the background, the pretty fishing village of Listvyanka is the main gateway to the delights of the depths. The town is home to one of the few hotels in the world dedicated to a lake. Bustling and buzzing, Listvyanka is full of fishermen and sailors offering a taste of island hopping adventure and, at the fishmarket, a taste of the local delicacy, smoked Omul fish, freshly caught.
But the town has attractions beyond the lake that laps at its jetties. The streets are decorated with striking architecture, from the distinctive Hotel Mayak to St Nikolai Church, and cozy family-run restaurants serve the authentic dishes of Buriat. Learn about Baikal in its dedicated museum, meet the friendly seals in the Nerpinarium and, after a day of exploring, relax in a traditional Russian sauna.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Baikal Museum
Explore the science of Lake Baikal with exhibits on its aquatic inhabitants and discover the watery depths in a mini-submarine. Examine the local flora in the adjoining dendropark.
Fish market
Perhaps the best place to head for the local locals’ favorite dish of Omul; these tasty fish are freshly caught from the lake and smoked to perfection. The inhabitant Buriat people enjoy Omul every day.
Fishing
Hop aboard an authentic fishing boat and head out on the water to lure the catch of the day - or night; after dark, there are also tours on which you can enjoy the glassy waters by starlight.
Nerpinarium
Next to the Priboy Hotel, the giant silver Nerpinarium is home to a number of frisky, frolicking Baikal seals. Catch these cheeky customers at half hourly displays of tricks and antics.
Russian Banya
A great way to soothe aching muscle after a day on the Lake, is to visit an authentic Russian sauna. The ‘banyas’ are wooden cabins, found on the hillside or in some hotels.
St Nikolai Church
Built at the end of the 19th century, the church of St Nikolai, made out of timber in its distinctive style, is dedicated to the saint who rescued unfortunate victims of a shipwreck.
Siberia & Russian Far East Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
Trans-Siberian Railway
Baikal Region
Altai Region
Tuva & Khakasia Republics
Northern Siberia
Russian Far East
Multi-Country Specialists
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Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
Breaking the Ice: Discovering Siberia’s Lake Baikal
- Author
- Jay Tindall
Baikal is the deepest and purest lake on the planet, a frozen sea in the heart of Siberia and an adventurer’s icy paradise of driving, helicopters, and dog sleds. From the Old Believers to the Buryat bone crushers, its shores and islands are sacred to those who call Baikal home.
Baikal Marathon: The Ultimate Challenge
- Author
- John McMahon
In the frozen wastes of Siberia is Lake Baikal. Only the most hardened runners take on this marathon on ice, the challenge of a lifetime.
What to do at Lake Baikal in Summer
- Author
- Travelogues
Besides enjoying the natural scenery, summertime travelers to Lake Baikal can hike, enjoy hot springs, and even swim during their journey.
What Others Say
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said about us recently.
Party of four from Missouri & Tokyo
We appreciated traveling in remote areas...the slice-of-life experiences made the trip worthwhile.
