World's oldest (25 million years) and deepest (1,642m) lake containing 20% of Earth's unfrozen freshwater. UNESCO World Heritage Site. Listvyanka village is the most accessible point from Irkutsk, 70 km away. Crystal-clear water, unique wildlife including nerpa seals.
From Irkutsk: minibus/bus from bus station (1-1.5 hours, every 30-60 min). Taxi — about 1500-2000 rubles. Summer: Voskhod hydrofoil from Raketa pier (1 hour). By car: via Baikal Highway, 70 km. Ice crossing operates in winter.
Lake Baikal is accessible 24/7. Listvyanka village is the main gateway to Baikal. Baikal Museum operates 9:00-19:00 (summer) and 10:00-17:00 (winter). Best time to visit: July-August (swimming) or February-March (clear ice).
Useful tips for visiting Lake Baikal (Listvyanka)
Winter ice spectacular in February-March — clear with cracks. Must try omul — local fish. Boat trips available in summer. Visit Baikal Museum with aquarium.
Listvyanka is 70 km from Irkutsk. Regular minibuses from bus station. By car on good road about one hour. Summer boat trips on Angara River available.
Main gateway to Lake Baikal — world's deepest lake. Listvyanka is small village overlooking Angara source. Fish market with smoked omul and other delicacies.
Winter Baikal ice with bubbles and cracks. Lake view from Chersky Stone. Sunset over Baikal from Listvyanka embankment.
Average temperature by month
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