Buryatia
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Buryatia
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| Information | |
Country:  |
Russia |
| State: | Republic of Buryatia |
| Major roads: | R258, A333, R438, A340, R440, R436 |
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Republic of Buryatia (Russian: Республика Бурятия) is one of the federal subjects of Russia, located in the Siberian Federal District. It is situated between Irkutsk Oblast and Zabaykalsky Krai. In the west, it shares a small border with Tuva. To the south is the national border with Mongolia. The administrative center is the city of Ulan-Ude.
Contents
Hitchhiking out
- The people of Buryatia (Buryats) are Buddhists (Lamaism), but their religion has little influence on hospitality; personal interests and education of the individual are more important.
- 100% of locals speak Russian, although Buryat may be spoken at home. Russian children also study Buryat as a separate subject in school. Nationalism is not a notable issue.
- It is possible to hitchhike Mongolian vehicles within the territory. Their drivers usually know some Russian, but it may be hard to get a ride as the vehicles are often fully loaded.
- Due to the metabolism of the nomadic peoples, local nationalities may become drunk quickly on a relatively small amount of alcohol and may become unruly. It is advised not to interact or drink with drunk Buryats, and to avoid invitations where heavy drinking is possible.
- Border zone in Buryatia: A strip up to 25 km wide along the state border, including the towns of Zakamensk and Kyakhta, as well as part of the Eastern Sayan tourist area (Munku-Sardyk mountain). Entry to places like Kyakhta, Naushki, etc., by main roads and with a valid passport is allowed, but for other cases, permits should be arranged in advance (for example, via the "Gosuslugi" website).
West towards Irkutsk
Option 1 - R258 Highway ("Baikal")
The federal highway R258 "Baikal" runs from Irkutsk along the southern shore of Lake Baikal through the Selenga River valley to the capital Ulan-Ude.
East towards Chita
Option 1 - R258 Highway
From Ulan-Ude, the R258 highway continues east towards Chita.
North towards Severobaikalsk, Barguzin, Ust-Barguzin
Option 1 - R438 Highway
The R438 departs from Ulan-Ude northward to the Barguzinsky District.
South towards Gusinoozyorsk, Mongolia
Option 1 - A340 Highway
A340 goes south from Ulan-Ude towards Gusinoozyorsk, with a spur (R440) to Zakamensky District, and the main road continues to the Russian-Mongolian border.
Hitchhiking in
Places to avoid
Accommodation and Sleep
Other useful info
- Areas within 25 km of the Mongolian border are considered border zones and usually require prior permits except when passing via main roads and holding a valid passport.
- There are several protected areas and nature reserves:
- Border crossings to Mongolia:
- Railroad crossing at Naushki — pedestrians not allowed, border check at the station; permit required for visiting the town.
- Monda-Khankh Border Crossing — open during the day for citizens of Russia and Mongolia, walking allowed.
- Kyakhta – Altan-Bulag Border Crossing — international, open to anyone with a valid passport; walking across is not allowed, but cars are permitted 24/7.
