Buryatia, Republic in Eastern Siberia, Russia
Buryatia is a republic in eastern Siberia, Russia, stretching across mountains, plateaus, and river valleys along the eastern shore of Lake Baikal. The landscape shifts between forested slopes, wide steppe zones, and rugged mountain ranges cut through by rivers.
The territory changed from the Buryat-Mongol Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic in 1923 to the Republic of Buryatia in 1992 within the Russian Federation. This shift reflects broader political changes that shaped the country during the 20th century.
The region shows a mix of Buddhist traditions and Russian Orthodox practices, with native Buryat people forming about one third of the population. Visitors encounter this blend in everyday scenes, where monasteries stand beside churches and festivals reflect both faiths.
The Trans-Siberian Railroad connects the capital Ulan-Ude to larger cities, while the Selenga River provides key transport routes through the territory. Travelers should prepare for long distances, changing weather conditions, and limited infrastructure outside main centers.
The territory holds two thirds of Lake Baikal's shoreline, where the water depth reaches 1642 meters (5387 feet), making it the deepest freshwater lake on Earth. This enormous lake contains about one fifth of all surface freshwater on our planet.
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