Lake Baikal FAQs
All the Allure and Curious Facts, Figures, and Information
Most Common FAQs About Lake Baikal
Introduction
Snug down in the heart of Siberia, Russia, Lake Baikal is like a time capsule of nature’s beauty. It’s not just any lake—it’s the oldest and deepest freshwater lake on our planet! Imagine a lake so deep that it reaches over 5,000 feet down into the earth, and it’s been around for a whopping 25 million years!
Baikal isn’t just a pretty face; it’s famous for its stunning, crystal-clear waters that let you see to the bottom. And talk about a diverse crowd—this lake is home to some of the most unique and rare species on the planet, making it a hotspot for nature lovers and curious explorers.
Now, let’s talk FAQs. Wondering where this gem came from? It’s like a gift from Mother Nature herself, formed way back in ancient times. And that amazing collection of underwater life? Baikal’s got everything from cute little seals to mysterious creatures you won’t find anywhere else.
- How to get to Lake Baikal
Lake Baikal can be accessed through Irkutsk, which can be reached via Moscow by plane or the Trans-Siberian Railway. Many buses and trains run from Irkutsk to picturesque places on Lake Baikal, such as Listvyanka or Olkhon Island.
1.1) Map of Lake Baikal
If you are traveling to Lake Baikal and want to have a real paper map of the region in your hands, I recommend the following map of Lake Baikal: It is essential to have such a card if you are traveling around the region in your car. The map of Lake Baikal is made of durable plastic paper that can be written on with a pencil. It offers you everything you need on-site.
2. Great places on Baikal
2.1) Listvyanka
Listvyanka is a small village located right on the shore of Lake Baikal. It is located 70 kilometers southeast of Irkutsk, right at the point where the Angara River flows out of Lake Baikal. Listvyanka is the first place to go when visiting Lake Baikal, as it is the easiest and fastest way to get to the village. From Irkutsk to Listvyanka [6 transfer options]Listvyanka on Lake Baikal [all the important sights]
2.2) Olkhon Island
The most beautiful place on Baikal, of course, is Olkhon Island. From here, you have a panoramic view of Lake Baikal, as well as magnificent rocks and exciting shamanic culture. Unfortunately, the journey from Irkutsk is a bit longer and takes about 5 hours. From Irkutsk to Olkhon Island [6 transfer options]Olkhon Island in Lake Baikal [Nature like a dream and shamans]
2.3) Slyudyanka
Slyudyanka is a small town on the southern shore of Lake Baikal with picturesque surroundings. There are only a few attractions in the city, but various places in the mountains of Khamar-Daban will inspire you! Here, you can go hiking, rafting, fishing, or swimming in mountain lakes. Preparing for a trip to RussiaTravel preparation has never been so easy! I will take your hand and make sure that your trip to Russia is unique. Slyudyanka on Baikal sights and magnificent nature
2.4) Baikalsk
Baikalsk is a small town on the southern shore of Lake Baikal. It lies on the route of the Trans-Siberian Railway and is surrounded by mountains and Lake Baikal. Here, you can go hiking in the mountains or skiing on Mount Sable in the winter. Baikalsk on Lake Baikal Mountains and a beautiful view of the lake
2.5) Arshan
Arshan is a health resort in the Republic of Buryatia. It is not located on Lake Baikal, but it can offer magnificent waterfalls, hot springs, and beautiful nature. Arshan is a popular destination for residents of the region. There is also a Buddhist Dazan here that you can visit. Arshan on Lake Baikal [dreamy nature and relaxation]
2.6) Places with untouched nature on Lake Baikal
There are plenty of exciting small spots in and around Baikal where you can still discover the true spirit of Baikal. There is no mass tourism here, and you can dive deep into the wilderness and experience a real adventure. Breathtaking places on Baikal [Off the beaten track]Ust-Barguzin on Lake Baikal [Untouched nature and Baikal seals]
An Alluring Scene of Lake Baikal, Russia
3. 20 questions and answers about Lake Baikal
Many stories and myths about the lake should not be believed. But one thing is for sure: Lake Baikal is something special. It was immediately clear on the first visit. I immediately felt the strength and peace that this majestic place radiates, and I am sure you will feel the same! A great view of Lake Baikal from Olkhon Island
3.1) How old is Lake Baikal?
Lake Baikal is the oldest freshwater lake in the world, at over 25 million years old (some even say 35 million).
3.2) What is the depth of Lake Baikal?
Lake Baikal, with a depth of 1,642 meters, is the deepest freshwater lake in the world.
3.3) How big is Lake Baikal?
Lake Baikal has a water volume of 23,615 km3 and a water surface of 31,722 km2, making it the largest freshwater lake in the world and the second-largest lake in the world after the Caspian Sea. Lake Baikal in all its glory
3.4) What are the reserves of fresh water in Lake Baikal?
Lake Baikal, which contains 1/5 of the world’s freshwater reserves, is also the largest freshwater reservoir in the world.
3.5) What is the length and width of Lake Baikal?
Lake Baikal is 673 kilometers long and 82 kilometers wide at its widest point. Its average width is 48 kilometers. The total length of the coast is 2,125 kilometers.
3.6) How big is Lake Baikal compared to Lake Constance?
Lake Baikal is 59 times larger than Lake Constance, Germany’s largest lake. The volume of Baikal is also 500 times the volume of Lake Constance. The impressive shores of Olkhon Island
3.7) What are the inflows and outflows of Lake Baikal?
Lake Baikal is fed by more than 500 tributaries. So, there is only one outflow—AAngara. It flows further towards Irkutsk and Angarsk.
3.8) When does Lake Baikal freeze completely in winter?
In February, Lake Baikal freezes completely, so it can be crossed on foot or by car. Every year in March, the Baikal Marathon is held on the lake. But, towards the end of April, the ice weakens again and is no longer navigable or passable.
3.9) What does the icy surface of Lake Baikal look like?
When freezing on the surface of Lake Baikal, many cracks and crevices form, the length of which can reach 30 kilometers and a width of 3 meters. The combination of very transparent ice and many cracks creates a fabulous picture. Since it is often quite windy on Lake Baikal, the snow is transported by ice, so transparent ice forms. In some places, you can look very deep. Frozen Lake Baikal with beautiful cracks