Things To Do
in Chulym

Chulym is a small town in Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia, set along the Chulym River. Its wooden architecture and surrounding taiga give it classic Siberian charm. The town serves as a quiet base for exploring forests, rivers, and traditional crafts.

Visitors enjoy a welcoming pace and opportunities to connect with local life and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Chulym's Charm
morning
:

Start your adventure in Chulym with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Russian pancakes. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets to admire the wooden architecture that reflects the town's rich history. Don't forget your camera, as the morning light beautifully illuminates the colorful facades.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Chulym History Museum to learn about the local culture and heritage found in this hidden gem. Take a leisurely walk along the Chulym River, where you can observe the peaceful landscape and perhaps spot some local wildlife. As the sun begins to set, consider snagging some ice cream from a local vendor to cool down.

evening
:

In the evening, gather with friends or new acquaintances at a nearby restaurant to indulge in authentic Siberian cuisine. Share stories and laughter over a warm meal as the day's adventures unfold. Cap off your night by attending a local cultural performance or simply enjoying the peaceful rhythms of the town.

day 2
Nature Adventures
morning
:

Wake up early and embark on a guided hike through the beautiful landscapes surrounding Chulym. Breathe in the fresh air as you navigate the serene trails, with the sounds of nature accompanying you on your journey. Stop at scenic overlooks for breathtaking views of the expansive forests and river valleys.

afternoon
:

After a fulfilling hike, enjoy a packed lunch in the great outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of Siberian nature. Spend the afternoon fishing in the Chulym River or simply relaxing by the water, soaking up the tranquility of the environment. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of local fauna, adding to the adventure.

evening
:

As dusk falls, take part in a guided nocturnal wildlife tour to learn about the creatures that come alive after dark. Enjoy the enchanting sounds of the night as you spot owls and other nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. After the tour, retreat to your accommodation and share a delicious dinner with fellow adventurers, recounting the day's highlights.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$6-12
🥖Groceries for a few days$5-15
🚆Local transport (one-way)$0.50-2
🏨One-night hotel$40-70
🍺Beer in a bar$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic Siberian town with river and taiga
  • Affordable prices and friendly locals
  • Limited transportation and services
  • Cold winters and long travel times to major cities
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please/You're welcome
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the toilet?
  • "Можно с вами сфотографироваться?" - May I take a photo with you?

Places to Visit in Chulym

Visit one of these nice places.

Chulym River Embankment at Dawn

Soft morning light over the river with boats and rippling water.

Old Wooden Houses in the Town Center

Carved window frames and traditional wooden architecture against a pine backdrop.

Bridge Overlook

A simple bridge offering views of the river and forest horizon, ideal for wide landscape shots.

Birch Forest Clearing

A quiet clearing in birch and pine with dappled sunlight for nature portraits.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chulym

Chulym’s cuisine centers on hearty Siberian fare with river fish, mushrooms, berries and rye bread. Home cooking and small cafes emphasize comforting soups, dumplings and roasted meats.

Chulym Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pelmeni

Dumplings filled with meat, often served with sour cream or broth, commonly found in local eateries.

Must-Try!

Ukha

Clear fish soup made with river fish and herbs, a staple for fishermen and travelers.

Stroganina

Frozen sliced meat like reindeer or fish, served as a cold snack in winter markets.

Rye Bread with Mushrooms

Dense rye loaf with fresh mushrooms or pickled mushrooms, a common everyday treat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chulym Local Market

A small market with fresh fish, berries, mushrooms and smoked goods.

Riverfront Street Stalls

Seasonal stalls along the river offering simple snacks and pancakes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chulym experiences a continental climate with cold, dry winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures often drop well below freezing, while summers are generally comfortable with occasional rain.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Personal Space

Greet with a brief handshake and a friendly hello; address elders with respect.

Hospitality

Tea and snacks are commonly offered; accepting is polite even when briefly busy.

Dress and Public Behavior

Dress modestly when visiting churches or ceremonial spaces; avoid loud behavior in public.

Safety Guide

Safety

Safety is generally good in town areas, but exercise caution on rural roads in winter conditions, and keep valuables secure in shared accommodations. Always carry a basic safety kit and know local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Chulym

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is common in cafes and small restaurants; about 10-15% if service is not included.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

April to May brings melting snow, muddy trails and migrating birds; pack waterproof footwear.

Summer

June to August offers long days, mild nights and active wildlife; mosquitoes can be present.

Autumn

September to November features colorful foliage and cooler temps; stay warm for outdoor activities.

Winter

December to February brings deep snow and very cold days; winter sports and northern skies are rewarding.

Nightlife Guide

Chulym at Night

The nightlife in Chulym is quiet and community-centered, with small bars, casual gatherings and occasional cultural performances. Expect friendly conversations, local music, and a relaxed pace rather than large clubs or loud venues.

Hiking in Chulym

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chulym River Shoreline Trail

Scenic riverside hike with gentle elevation and wildlife viewing.

Taiga Conifer Loop

Loop through pine and spruce forests with occasional clearings and viewpoints.

Birch Grove Ridge

Short ridge hike with birch stands and valley views.

Airports

How to reach Chulym by plane.

Krasnoyarsk-Yemelyanovo Airport (KJA)

The main international and domestic hub nearby; long-distance connections and onward travel by road or rail.

Tomsk Bogashevo Airport (TOF)

A regional airport with domestic flights; reachable by road or rail from Chulym.

Abakan Airport (ABA)

Regional airport serving nearby areas; access by road and possible longer travel to Krasnoyarsk or Tomsk.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chulym is small and walkable in the town center; most sights are within a short stroll, though some outlying spots require transport. Winter sidewalks can be icy, so wear sturdy shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Russians

The majority population with strong local ties and traditions.

Other groups

Smaller communities including Tatars, Ukrainians and indigenous Siberian groups visiting for work or heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice hockey

Popular in winter with local teams and community rinks.

Football (soccer)

Played in schools and local clubs during warmer months.

Cross-country skiing

Common in winter using forest trails and open fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in town with limited public transport; private cars and small buses connect to larger cities. Winter driving can be hazardous due to snow and ice; plan extra time for trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chulym.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options exist as vegetables, mushrooms and dumplings; ask for mushroom fillings or side salads; most soups can be made meat-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There is a local clinic in Chulym for basic care; for more advanced treatment, residents rely on regional hospitals in Krasnoyarsk or Tomsk. Carry basic prescriptions and a copy of medical records. Emergency numbers follow national practice, 112.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide