Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal is one of the world's most spectacular sights and is often referred to as "Siberia's pearl." This UNESCO World heritage site is one of the biggest freshwater lakes in the world, surrounded by the picturesque taiga and mountains. Lake Baikal is also a famous spiritual destination.
The highlight of eastern Siberia and one of the oldest geographical features in the world dating back to 25 to 30 million years, Lake Baikal is a marvelous experience. Enjoy panoramic views of deep azure waters, high mountain ranges in the summer, or take a road trip across the white frozen ice-roads in winter.
Baikal holds the record of the deepest (5387 ft) and oldest (25 million years ago) lake in the world. Lake Baikal often freezes entirely to form a crystal clear ice sheet of about 3 ft. which allows you to glimpse into the underwater world for a moment. With over 3,500 species of plants and animals, 70 percent of which are found nowhere else on the planet, Lake Baikal has an unusual and extraordinary marine life.
While visiting this lake, you can enjoy hiking paths that circle the lake - the Great Baikal Trail. In the village of Listvyanka, on the river’s western shoreline, you can explore some wildlife-spotting tours; and in the winter you can go ice-skating and sledding. This lake offers beauty and a host of activities for everyone to enjoy.
Add this one to the bucket list if you want to enjoy the benefits of what Russians call the "Sacred Sea."
