Park

In Alkhanay National Park, forested mountains of dense conifers rise above the steppe. There are many mineral springs—some are drinkable, others form natural baths where tourists bathe; the water is cold and invigorating even in summer. The park has four hiking routes from 2 to 92 kilometres: "Stone Fence" (2 km) passes several picturesque stone formations; "Small Goroo" (10 km) is a pilgrimage route around the massif with several mineral springs and viewpoints along the way; "Summit" (16 km) is a radial route to the park's highest point, Mount Alkhanay (1,662 metres); and the "Great Pilgrims' Trail" (92 km) is a difficult, self‑sufficient route that takes at least a week. Many natural sights and tracks are described at idilesom.com. You can hire a guide by emailing [email protected] or calling 8 (30256) 2 16 21. A permit is required to visit the park and can be bought at the checkpoint; a permit for one person costs 200 rubles for the entire stay. Best time to visit is May–September. The park is open in winter but trails are not cleared and the mineral baths freeze. Bring cash for park services—phone and internet coverage is poor. Accommodation: book a cottage (500–1,000 rubles per person) or a tent camp (about 200 rubles per place) on the park website or by phone at 8 (30256) 2 16 21. How to get there: take the Chita–Duldurga bus. Tickets cost 1,100–1,300 rubles, travel time 4–5 hours; tickets can be bought online at tutu.ru or at the bus station. Six buses run daily. From Duldurga you can take a taxi to the park (25 kilometres to the checkpoint) or hitch a ride with locals.