Olkhon Island is located in the very center of Baikal, separating the Small Sea from the “big water”. Many legends and myths are associated with the island, here interesting events took place at different times.

Shaman cave, parking of ancient people, protective fortress Kurykan are only a few of those attractions that can be seen on Olkhon.

According to the Buryat legends, it is on Olkhon that the most formidable spirits of Baikal inhabit

The Baikal area is distinguished by a large total duration of sunshine - on the island of Olkhon only 48 cloudy days a year. The amount of precipitation per year on average does not exceed 140 mm. According to this indicator, Olkhon can be compared only with some very arid regions of Central Asia.

Locals use artificial irrigation for garden crops and hayfields. Another feature of Olkhon is almost universally observed soil erosion. A weak, easily collapsing soil and vegetation layer and frequent winds contribute to the rapid removal of humus and the transfer of sand, which makes farming difficult and can lead to the emergence of desert landscapes. Today you can watch the procession of sands in some places.

According to the Buryat legends, it is on Olkhon that the most formidable spirits of Baikal dwell. According to legend, Khan-Khoto Babay descended from heaven and chose an earthly castle on Olkhon.

What to do on the island

Another feature of Olkhon is almost universally observed soil erosion. A weak, easily collapsing soil and vegetation layer and frequent winds contribute to the rapid removal of humus and the transfer of sand, which makes farming difficult and can lead to the emergence of desert landscapes. Today you can watch the procession of sands in some places.

• Horseback riding
• Quadro rental
• Hiking trails
• Fishing
• Boat excursions