IRKUTSK & LAKE BAIKAL
By far the most popular stop for journeys on the Trans-Siberian is Irkutsk, and nearby Lake Baikal, holding 20% of the earth's fresh water, more than all five of the Great Lakes of North America combined.
Irkutsk became the most cultured city of Siberia in the 19th century, becoming populated by many Decembrists, exiled aristocrats and intelligensia who participated in an uprising against Czar Nicolas I. Several Decembrists' houses have been restored as museums of the time.
Lake Baikal is about 70 km from Irkutsk. In summer, hydrofoils connect Irkutsk with Listvjanka and Bolshie Koty, villages on the shores of Lake Baikal where either homestays or hotels can be arranged as accommodation.
Perhaps the most mysteriously beautiful place on Lake Baikal is its biggest island, Olkhon Island, accessible by bus from Irkutsk (homestay available).
During summer, hydrofoils crisscross Lake Baikal, connecting Irkutsk with Severobaikalsk on the lake's northern shore. Also connecting Severobaikalsk with Irkutsk is the BAM railroad.
Ulan-Ude is the capital of the Buryatia Republic of Russia, where the Buryats preserve their culture, ethnically related to the Mongolians. Ulan-Ude more resembles nearby Mongolia than Russia, where the only Buddhist monastery in Russia is maintained outside of the city.
SERVICES
Irkutsk:
Transfer from train station (shared), 8-22, $27, night $40
Homestay: $36 single $48 double
Walking city tour: $52 1 person, $14/add. person
Excursion to Lake Baikal, 8-9 hrs, $195 (1 per.)
Car transfer (shared), Irkutsk-Listvyanka: $60
Homestay, Listvyanka: $40 single $53 double
Hydrofoil, Irkutsk- Bolshie Koty: $20
Bus ticket, Irkutsk-Olkhon Island: $36
Olkhon Island, Homestay: full board, single $60 double $93
Bolshie Koty Homestay: full board, single $70 double $111
Hydrofoil, Irkutsk-Severobaikalsk: $150
Transfer, Severobaikalsk: $27
Homestay, Severobaikalsk: $62 single, $105 double
Transfer, Ulan-Ude: $40
Homestay, Ulan-Ude: $50 single, $85 double
