Things To Do
in Shelekhov

Shelekhov is a city in Irkutsk Oblast, Russia, located near the scenic Angara River. It is known for its rich industrial history and proximity to Lake Baikal, the world's deepest freshwater lake. The city combines a blend of modern Soviet architecture with natural beauty, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

With a population of around 30,000, Shelekhov serves as a gateway to exploring the surrounding Siberian wilderness.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Shelekhov
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Shelekhov Museum of Local Lore to learn about the region's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, followed by a leisurely walk along the Angara River, where you can take in the scenic views.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Russian restaurant and experience local cuisine, then enjoy a relaxed evening in one of the city parks.

day 2
Day 2: Excursion to Lake Baikal
morning
:

Take an early bus to Lake Baikal and explore the shoreline, visiting the famous Olkhon Island.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch by the lake and participate in water activities like kayaking or fishing.

evening
:

Return to Shelekhov for dinner, followed by a visit to a local bar for drinks and socializing.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🥖Bakery Item$1
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Proximity to beautiful natural landscapes, including Lake Baikal.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Russian speakers.
  • Harsh winter conditions may deter some travelers.
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please
  • "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Где туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Shelekhov

Visit one of these nice places.

Angara River

Capture stunning sunset views over the river, with picturesque landscapes and reflections.

Lake Baikal

The world’s deepest freshwater lake provides breathtaking panoramas of nature, especially during sunrise.

Shelekhov City Park

A lush green space perfect for photographing local flora, fauna, and leisurely activities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shelekhov

Shelekhov offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its Siberian heritage. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals featuring local ingredients, particularly fish from Lake Baikal and game meats.

Shelekhov Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Balyk

Smoked fish, usually from Lake Baikal, served with fresh bread and herbs.

Must-Try!

Pelmeni

Traditional Siberian dumplings stuffed with various meats, served with sour cream.

Olivier Salad

A popular Russian salad made with boiled potatoes, carrots, pickles, and mayonnaise.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shelekhov Market

A vibrant local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and homemade delicacies.

Street Vendors

Local vendors selling quick bites like pirozhki (stuffed pastries) and savory crepes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shelekhov experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Winter temperatures can drop to -30°C (-22°F), while summer averages around 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is common in late spring and early summer, while winters are typically dry with occasional heavy snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or rural areas.

Politeness

Use 'please' and 'thank you' (пожалуйста, спасибо) to show respect in interactions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shelekhov is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Shelekhov

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping around 10-15% is customary in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring sees melting snow and blooming flowers, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather, perfect for hiking and water sports at Lake Baikal.

Autumn

Autumn brings vibrant foliage and is ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Winter

Winter can be harsh with heavy snowfall, but it's great for winter sports like skiing and ice fishing.

Nightlife Guide

Shelekhov at Night

Shelekhov's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and clubs offering local music and drinks. Most venues cater to a younger crowd, especially on weekends. Popular activities include karaoke and socializing over vodka and traditional snacks.

Hiking in Shelekhov

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sukhaya River Trail

A scenic hiking trail along the Sukhaya River, offering lush forests and wildlife watching opportunities.

Baikal Nature Reserve Trails

Various trails in the Baikal Nature Reserve provide access to stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Airports

How to reach Shelekhov by plane.

Irkutsk International Airport

Located about 30 km from Shelekhov, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shelekhov is a moderately walkable city, especially in the central areas where shops, restaurants, and parks are located close together. Sidewalks are available, but some streets may lack proper pedestrian crossings. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Siberian Ethnic Groups

The region is home to various indigenous Siberian ethnic groups, each with unique cultural traditions.

Russian Settlers

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Russians, who have settled in the region over the last few centuries.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey is a popular sport in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and followed, with local matches attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shelekhov is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or public transport. Buses and minibuses are the primary modes of public transport, with frequent services connecting various parts of the city. However, during peak hours, minor congestion can occur.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shelekhov.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited; informing the staff about dietary needs is recommended.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Shelekhov is accessible, with several clinics and one main hospital providing basic medical services. For serious health issues, patients may need to be referred to Irkutsk, the regional capital, where more advanced care is available.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide