Most of those traveling in Russia spend their time in the western part of the country. Big cities such as Moscow, St. Petersburg have many tempting offers, but the East of Russia should not be overlooked. This is a place for those who are interested in the harsh climate, because the Far East is the cradle of numerous national parks, volcanoes and mountain peaks covered with snow. The islands located along the coast will allow you to see a completely different side of Russia. For international routes to China or Mongolia, the Far East is a convenient starting point. The coldest city on Earth is Yakutsk, Wrangel Island, known as the "Island of Polar Bears". The Far East is definitely a place worthy of attention.
10. Oymyakon
If Yakutsk is considered one of the coldest cities in the world, Oymyakon is even colder. This settlement is the "Pole of Cold". The coldest temperature on Earth outside Antarctica has been recorded here. Due to the extreme winter temperatures, aircraft do not fly in winter. Tourist groups come from neighboring towns, but it is best not to travel on your own during the winter. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the natural landmark - "Pole of Cold".
9. Valley of Geysers
The Valley of Geysers is a field of geysers located on the Kamchatka Peninsula, part of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve. This is an astonishing concentration of geysers in one place, located in a pool with hot springs and a meandering river. Unfortunately, the original appearance of the Valley of Geysers has changed due to a landslide in 2007. More than 60 percent of the geysers were hidden under mud. However, since 2013, thanks to heavy rains, the Valley is gradually regaining its former appearance.
8. Sikhote-Alin nature reserve
The Sikhote-Alin Nature Reserve is famous for many things. First, the Sikhote-Alin mountain range runs through its territory. The majestic peaks with beautiful valleys create the breathtaking landscape that many photographers love. The reserve is distinguished by its biodiversity. When visiting the reserve, you can see brown bears, a goat named Amur, and, of course, the footprints of the Amur tiger. In 1947, a natural phenomenon occurred here, which was later called by astronomers the Sikhote-Alin iron meteor shower. The Sikhote-Alin meteorite is one of the 10 largest meteorites that fell on the territory of the USSR.
7. Yakutsk
Yakutsk is the coldest city in the whole world! At the same time, summers can be quite warm, however winters tend to be extremely cold. Fortunately, this city has a lot to offer, both indoor and outdoor, at any time of the year. Must-sees are the Old Town, an architectural monument in the style of the 19th century, as well as the Underground Laboratory of the Permafrost Institute named after P.I. Melnikov - here you can see various samples of frozen strata, and the remains of a mammoth.
6. Esso
The village of Esso is located in Kamchatka, famous for its hot springs. Hot springs, found in abundance, are also used for heating residential buildings. You can not only bask in these springs, but also go on an excursion to the Bystrinsky Nature Park, visit reindeer breeding farms, or ride a dog sled. From here begins the world famous annual dog sled race, which attracts tourists from all countries.
5. Natural Park "Lena Pillars"
Lena Pillars are 50 km long and are a symbol of the natural park. In summer, the park can be reached by motor ship or by boats stopping in Yakutsk. The Lena Pillars are a natural rock formation, scientists attribute it to the Paleozoic era, the height of some of the pillars reaches 300 m.From the water, this sight is breathtaking, but you should not give up walking along the pillars and climbing observation platforms. layers of dolomite limestone and shale, arouse even greater interest of travelers to explore.
4. Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky
The city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is a destination for tourists who are fond of nature, adventure and outdoor recreation. It is the second largest city in the world, inaccessible by road, you can only get here by plane or boat, about 200,000 people live in the city. The center of the city is Lenin Square; the city has a sufficient number of entertainments and attractions suitable for visiting. However, the city is famous for outdoor recreation: day trips to see bears in their habitat, paragliding and fishing in Avacha Bay.
3. Kuril Islands
The Kuril Islands are located off the coast of Russia, north of Japan. The islands are sparsely populated and many residents speak both Russian and Japanese. Travelers come to the Kuril Islands to see the virgin beauty of the archipelago alive. The Kuril Islands are part of the Pacific Volcanic Ring of Fire, which includes all active volcanoes in the Pacific Ocean. If you have the opportunity to visit the Kuril Islands, you will get a chance to see the amazing "volcano in the volcano" Tyatya, magnificent blue lagoons, soaring geothermal rivers and an impressive view of the sheer cliffs of Cape Stolbchaty.
2. Wrangel Island
Wrangel Island is located 500 km from the Arctic Circle and offers visitors cold weather and tundra landscapes. Despite the climate and inaccessibility, Wrangel Island is an internationally renowned destination for nature lovers. If you've ever dreamed of seeing Arctic wildlife at its best, a trip to Wrangel Island is the best opportunity. Land mammals on Wrangel Island include polar bears, arctic foxes, reindeer and walruses. With a trained guide, polar bears can be seen in their natural habitat. During the sea cruise, you can see gray whales.
1. Vladivostok
Vladivostok is the largest port city in the Pacific Ocean, located just 130 km (80 miles) from the border with North Korea. Many travelers are familiar with Vladivostok because it is the terminal station of the Trans-Siberian Railway. To see the fleet of the Russian Navy, it is enough just to look at the Golden Horn Bay. If it's warm, take a swim on Sportivnaya Naberezhnaya; in winter, take a walk along the frozen coast. At the huge Market, located on Sportivnaya Street, you can shop and buy souvenirs. The Vladivostok Fortress Museum and the Botanical Garden are recommended for visiting.
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