Khoujir (Russia)

Khuzhir only began to discover the modern world when electricity was installed there in 2006. Its water arrives directly from Lake Baikal so make sure you filter it properly before you drink it.

It's in a stunning place. In the middle of the desert steppes where horses roam free, the view from the promontory near the vilage of a frozen Lake Baikal was astounding. Although the summer period is pleasant (although also more touristy because the Russians prefer it), I recommend the winter. The local inhabitants are Shamanists and there are several symbolic objects here, including Shaman's Rock.

You are in Buryat territory (a people who are close to the Mongols), where people make a living from omul fishing and forestry - so why not try to get to know some of the locals? It's a pity they don't have any formal way of getting rid of rubbish which is simply piled into a landfill site in the forest. But, despite everything, I think Khuzhir is an essential place to go during any trip to Russia.