Ob

The Ob flows 5,410 kilometers from the Altai Mountains through Western Siberia, forming the seventh-longest river system in the world. Its basin covers steppes, taiga forests, and tundra zones with numerous tributaries including the Irtysh, Tom, and Chulym rivers.

In the 11th century, Novgorodian merchants established trade routes along the river, founding settlements like Beryozov and Surgut. These posts grew into centers for fur trade between Russia and Siberia.

Indigenous peoples like the Khanty and Nenets still live along the banks, maintaining traditions of fishing and reindeer herding. Visitors today can see wooden boats and nets used by local communities who continue to rely on the river for their livelihood.

The river freezes between November and April in southern areas and from October to June in the north, affecting navigation and fishing. During warmer months, passenger boats operate between several cities along the banks.

The Gulf of Ob forms the longest estuary worldwide, separating the Yamal Peninsula from the Gyda Peninsula as it enters the Kara Sea. During spring melt, the river's width can expand beyond 60 kilometers in some sections.