Natural objects of Russia have long attracted the close attention of both the residents of our country and foreign visitors from around the world. What so interests all these people? Is it possible somewhere in the hinterland of the state you can find places that will surprise anyone, even a very sophisticated traveler? It turns out that yes! And all that is required of us is just to take a closer look at the reality surrounding us.
This article will not only tell you about the unique natural sites of Russia, the reader will become more familiar with the native land, again revealing its corners and really marveling at what he saw.
Section 1. Virgin Komi forests
The pristine forests of the Komi Republic are not only the property of our country, but also a World Heritage Site according to the UNESCO organization (since 1995). This array is located on an area of more than 32 thousand square meters. We note with pride that not one of the European forests occupies such an impressive territory, and the virgin state that has been preserved to this day can be attributed to the uniqueness of the global scale.
The location of the forests is unique, and therefore they look incredibly beautiful. What is the secret? The thing is that they are located in the northern part of the Ural Mountains, with the eastern part settled in the mountains, and the western part in the foothills. The diverse flora and fauna is an exceptional find and a valuable gift both for specialists and for lovers of active pastime in the fresh air.
Despite the fact that the virgin forests of Komi are unique in their kind, they are still in danger. In the territory of the reserve "Yugyd va", which owns the area, active industrial gold mining is carried out.
Unfortunately, the development continues, despite the decision of the special plenipotentiary Committee for Environmental Protection. In accordance with this document, all exploration operations must be minimized immediately.
The question of how long wilderness supporters have the strength, money and time to fight to preserve the virgin forests remains open as well.
Section 2. Unique Russia: Lake Baikal
This geographical object is rightfully considered one of the most magnificent and stunningly beautiful places in our country.
It is located in eastern Siberia. Its length from south to north is 636 km, its width varies from 25 to 80 km, and its shape resembles a regular crescent.
Locals often call Baikal the sea, which is no wonder! The average depth of the lake is 730 meters. By the way, it should be noted that Baikal is not only the deepest lake on the planet, but also the largest storage of fresh and unique in its properties water.
At first glance, it’s hard to imagine that more than 300 rivers flow into Lake Baikal, and there is only one river, the Angara.
It is impossible not to say about the state of flora and fauna. A great many rare animals, fish and birds are concentrated in this area.
A walk along the Great Baikal Trail will become one of the most unique opportunities for tourists to get acquainted with the unique nature and enjoy the magnificent views of Lake Baikal.
Indeed, without this place on the map of our state it would be impossible to fully imagine the natural objects of Russia, the list of which is actually quite extensive. The breath away from such beauty. Many experienced travelers believe that no one has the right to call himself a tourist without visiting and falling in love with Lake Baikal for life.
Section 3. Valley of Geysers
Continuing to talk about the natural sites of Russia, we are transported far east. It is in this place that the notorious Valley of Geysers is located, discovered at random and over the years has become such an attractive place for thousands of adventure seekers from around the world.
By the way, we note that this is not only the only geyser field in Eurasia, it is also considered one of the largest in the world.
There is a valley in Kamchatka, occupying an area of about two square kilometers. There are about 20 large and many small geysers that throw fountains of water (almost steam) with a temperature of over 90 degrees!
Probably many people know about what is in Russia, as, incidentally, in any other country in the world, and specially protected natural sites. Today, the Valley of Geysers had to be reckoned among them, so it would definitely not be possible to visit there as an ordinary traveler. Since 1977, tourist trips to this unique and truly beautiful place have been strictly prohibited.
Section 4. Columns of weathering (Plateau Man-naupu-ner, rep. Komi)
The pillars of weathering, or, as they are also called, the Mansi Boobies, which for a long time served as objects of worship for the local people, are on the territory of the Komi Republic on the Man-pupu-ner plateau, which means “mountain of stone idols”.
Even the most enlightened person will bow before seven pillars more than 30 meters high. Why? The fact is that the greatness of these giants is truly indescribable.
If you carefully listen to local residents, it turns out that without exception, all natural sites in Russia have their secrets and legends. For example, according to popular beliefs, these pillars were once a family of giants, descended from the mountains and belligerent against the Vogul people. But when their leader saw Mount Jalping-ner, from horror and fear, all seven were petrified.
Scientists, of course, hold a slightly different point of view. But be that as it may, the pillars of weathering are a colossal geological monument of our country.
Section 5. Lake Seliger (Tver and Novgorod regions)
Talking about natural heritage sites in Russia, it is impossible not to mention another miracle. Seliger Lake, formed as a result of melting glacier, represents the embodied grandeur and beauty of our nature. It is located between Moscow and St. Petersburg, on the forest hills of the Valdai Upland. The area of the lake system is about 260 square meters. km
A trip around the lake traditionally begins with the old fishing town of Ostashkov. Its picturesque location on the peninsula attracts tourists from all over the world. Part of the streets go directly to the coastline, so here you can see many moored boats.
In the very center of the lake you can see Stolobny Island. It is home to the Nilova Desert Monastery, which houses a host of magnificent churches, towers and other architectural structures.
Section 6. Whale Alley (Chukotka Peninsula)
Despite the fact that the Whale Alley is one of the most iconic sights of Chukotka, for a long time no one knew about it. The unique archaeological complex is a monument consisting of a group of pillars of whale jaws, and if you look closely, you can see many whale skulls, the narrow side of which is dug in the ground.
Between the whale remains clearly visible storage for food. The scale of the monument is amazing, because the gaze opens to a site measuring more than 500 meters. The whale alley has long served the ancient Eskimos as the central sanctuary, and now it is included in the natural sites of Russia, the list of which is constantly updated to date.
Section 7. Mount Belukha (Altai Mountains)
Many of us have at least once in our lives heard about such a unique place as Mount Belukha, which is the highest point in the Altai Mountains (4506 m). The peak owes its name to the abundant snow that covers it from the top to the very bottom. By the way, the river Katun flows purely geographically from this place.
From a geological point of view, Belukha Mountain has a very interesting structure. Why is it unusual? The thing is that it has not one, but two peaks at once: East and West, very reminiscent of their appearance majestic and mysterious Egyptian pyramids.
For many centuries, this place has attracted travelers and tourists, artists and writers who love to visit the natural sites of Russia.
The beauty of Belukha is unique and inimitable.
Section 8. Tsei Gorge (North Ossetia)
Tsei Gorge is a world-famous ski resort of North Ossetia. What attracts travelers here? First of all, this is the magnificence and originality of the natural world. Secondly, even at the peak of the season there is not very crowded, which means that peace and quiet are guaranteed to every vacationer.
The most important monument of North Ossetia - the Sanctuary Recom. As well as a number of religious buildings. The recently restored sanctuary today appears in its original form. Here you can see a whole complex of such places located at some distance from each other.
Section 9. Waterfall Kivach (Republic of Karelia)
Kivach waterfall is the second largest flat waterfall in its scale. It is located on the Karelian river Suna. Its height is almost 11 meters. Those who want to enjoy this miracle of nature will get to the top without much effort. This will not be difficult, but the address is still worth remembering - the Petersburg-Murmansk highway, the fifth kilometer.
By the way, the Museum of Nature and the Arboretum, well-known in our country and beyond, are located near the waterfall.
It is worth paying attention to the fact that in this case it does not matter at what time of the year you arrive at the waterfall. Why? The thing is that it is uniquely beautiful in any weather.
The legend of the formation of the waterfall is both beautiful and sad. The sister rivers Suna and Shuya flowed next to each other. However, when Suna got tired and gave way to Shue, she did not wait for her and flowed forward. When the rested Suna realized that she needed to catch up with her sister, she swiftly flowed without disassembling the channel. She came across the rocks, pierced them and formed waterfalls. And when, exhausted, she reached Kivach, the forces left her, she surrendered herself to the will of fate and flowed to Lake Onega.
Section 10. Ubsunur Basin
This reserve has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003. It is located on the territory of the Republic of Tuva and closely borders with Mongolia. The total area of the unique collection of flora and fauna is more than 323 thousand hectares.
It is amazing, but true: the Ubsunur Basin includes most of the landscapes of the temperate zone of the planet, which is why here you can see glaciers and taiga, alpine meadows, steppes and sand dunes.
In addition, there are about 40 thousand pristine mounds and a number of other significant places of the Scythians, Turks, Huns.
The unique location of the basin is a habitat for hundreds of species of flora and fauna. More than 80 species of mammals and 359 birds.