Set deep inside the Russian Lake Baikal subcontinent in Siberia, myths and legends have been shrouded in it.
All over social media, the Lake Baikal in Siberia has generated quite a stir. The deepest and most large lake in the world owes its fame to a very unusual occurrence. Rocks that have filled the ice of Lake Baikal are heated by sunlight and dissolve the ice below, named ‘Baikal Zen.’ The ice becomes stable again after the sun sets, providing a slight foundation for the rock also. Here is a view of some of Lake Baikalal’s rare ice formations.
In southern Russia, the world’s largest and deepest lake curves through Siberia for miles. It’s a sanctuary for endangered animals and a top tourist attraction. Still, the lake is now under pressure because of poaching and pollution.
In summer, tourists flock to the crystal blue waters of Lake Baikal, safe enough to drink. It’s a hard frozen rock in winter, marked with ice paths.
It’s not just visitors who find this ancient lake interesting. Because of its ‘exceptional importance to evolutionary science,’ it has been made a Unesco World Heritage Site. Lake Baikal was created around 25 million years ago-geologists believe its formation helps to understand how continents have split over time, making way for oceans.
The lake is rich in biodiversity, offering a habitat for a wide range of flora and wildlife. Lake Baikal is native to more than 80% of the species there, such as the nerpa seal, one of the world’s only three entirely freshwater seal populations.
Nevertheless, in recent years, the lake has come under pressure from deforestation, poaching, and an algae growth outbreak.
A ban on all commercial fishing for omul fish, a salmon species found only in Baikal and a significant food source in the area, was imposed last autumn by the Russian government. The three-year ban seeks to allow the omul population to regenerate after overfishing, leading to a number decrease.
Thick covers of quickly growing algae are also a cause for concern about the unique environment of Baikal. The creation is a product of contamination, some scientists claim. Many towns along the lake lack adequate facilities for waste-water and sewage treatment. Environmentalists also worry that if seismic activities triggered a break, the significant oil pipeline nearby could pose a risk to the lake.
To have a livelihood for many locals, tourism has replaced fishing. As part of a Trans-Siberian Railway journey, international tourists frequently stop at the lake. At the same time, Russians appreciate the area for its scenery and hiking trails. Lake Baikal is surrounded by mountains. The region is home to Buryat tribes that herd sheep and goats in the lake’s vicinity and its plentiful wildlife.
Lake Baikal is a monumental natural marvel and vital to local mythology as it is to science, up to 1637 meters wide and extending 63 kilometres from north to south. Now for centuries to come, conservationists are eager to conserve its ancient wonders.
If you have a picture that you want to share with our readers of a stunning landscape or something spectacular in nature? If so, you can give it to us by using our website’s upload feature or emailing us at ecoafrica@dw.com. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
The month to visit Lake Baikal
Though summer is a beautiful time to hike along Lake Baikal’s calm shores, March is the best month to explore. March temperatures hover near 16 degrees Fahrenheit, a welcome change from previous winter months’ below-zero temperatures. While in March, you will always need a parka, gloves, and a thick scarf, in relative warmth, you will be able to check out the impressive ice formations.
Until May, when the surface temperature increases to 48 degrees Fahrenheit, much of the ice is still evident. Warmer conditions in the lake and air ensure the hummocks are less noticeable and impressive. The hummocks dissolve entirely during the summer months as the lake ice disappears.
Visiting Lovely Baikal Lake
Irkutsk, Siberia, is the nearest city to Lake Baikal. You will fly to the city’s international airport and be on the shores of Lake Baikal in a matter of hours. You have the luxury of planning your own journeys from Irkutsk, which will include taking the bus or signing up for a tour. Suppose you want to spend more extra time marvelling at Lake Baikal’s fantastic structures or engaging in any of the lake’s winter sports. In that case, you will find lodging right on its shores.
Even though Lake Baikal is not yet on the international tourist list, booking ahead is still advisable. This is unusually valid if you intend to fly there between March and May to spend New Year’s or Christmas on the lake.
Also Read, 8 Of The World’s Longest Rivers
Things To Keep In Mind
The ice on Lake Baikal is incredibly dense. Still, if you visit during the winter months, you can theoretically step out on it. If you plan to stroll across the turquoise glacier, make sure that you check a local guide in advance and comply with all safety measures. Stay on the beach if you have any questions.
Frostbite is a health issue for those who, during the winter months, visit Lake Baikal. Try not to have your skin exposed for too long, and if you feel some numbness or tingling in your extremities, get to a safe spot right away. If you need them, there are hospitals in Irkutsk, so why ruin your vacation? Wear these socks of extra-toasty wool and pack a nice pair of mittens with them.
All ice has exceptional reflecting properties, and no exception is the vast expanse that surrounds Lake Baikal. Even if it appears counterintuitive in a cold environment, wear heavy-duty sunscreen.
From its incredible array of animal life to its spectacular ice hummocks, Lake Baikal is undoubtedly one of the most iconic discoveries on the planet. Don’t skip this natural marvel that is unmatched.
