Start your journey in Novosibirsk, the gateway to Siberia. Visit the Novosibirsk Zoo in the morning, known for its diverse range of animals, including Siberian tigers and snow leopards. In the afternoon, explore the Central Siberian Botanical Garden, home to beautiful flora and tranquil walking paths. In the evening, take a stroll along the Ob River Embankment and enjoy the scenic views.
Novosibirsk Zoo: Estimated cost: ₹500 per person, Estimated time spent: 3 hours
Central Siberian Botanical Garden: Estimated cost: ₹300 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Ob River Embankment: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Pushkin, a cozy bakery known for its fresh pastries and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, try The Siberian Grill, a restaurant specializing in traditional Siberian cuisine, including hearty soups and grilled meats. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, dine at The Floating Restaurant, a unique establishment on the Ob River offering stunning views and a menu of fresh seafood and European dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Monday, June 3, 2024: Lake Baikal
Embark on a day trip to Lake Baikal, the deepest and oldest freshwater lake in the world. Take a boat tour in the morning to explore its crystal-clear waters and stunning surroundings. In the afternoon, visit Listvyanka, a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Baikal. Walk along the promenade, visit the Baikal Museum, and try local delicacies like omul fish. Enjoy the peacefulness of the lake before returning to Novosibirsk in the evening.
Lake Baikal Boat Tour: Estimated cost: ₹2,000 per person, Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Listvyanka Village: Estimated cost: ₹500 per person, Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Listvyanka is Cafe Baikal. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Russian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rubles per person.
For lunch, visit the Lake View Restaurant. It offers stunning views of Lake Baikal and serves delicious seafood dishes, including freshly caught fish. The average cost for a meal is about 800 rubles per person.
For dinner, head to the Baikal Dacha restaurant. Set in a cozy wooden cottage, this restaurant specializes in traditional Siberian cuisine. Try their hearty stews, smoked meats, and local berry desserts. The average cost for a meal is about 1000 rubles per person.
Tuesday, June 4, 2024: Tobolsk
Travel to Tobolsk, a historic city located on the banks of the Irtysh River. In the morning, explore the Tobolsk Kremlin, an architectural gem with stunning cathedrals and a museum. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the beautiful Stary Gorod Park. In the afternoon, visit the Tobolsk Historical and Architectural Museum-Reserve to learn about the city's history. Take a leisurely stroll along the Irtysh River promenade in the evening.
Tobolsk Kremlin: Estimated cost: ₹300 per person, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Stary Gorod Park: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Tobolsk Historical and Architectural Museum-Reserve: Estimated cost: ₹200 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Siberia which offers a variety of traditional Siberian dishes along with a selection of pastries. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, try out Restaurant Volga located near the Irtysh River. This restaurant serves delicious Russian cuisine with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a satisfying dinner, visit Taverna-Potyomkin, a cozy restaurant known for its hearty Siberian dishes. Enjoy traditional Russian hospitality and the average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Wednesday, June 5, 2024: Altai Mountains
Head to the breathtaking Altai Mountains for a day filled with natural beauty. Start your day with a hike in the stunning Belukha National Park, known for its snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Ukok Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its unique landscapes. Return to Novosibirsk in the evening.
Belukha National Park: Estimated cost: ₹300 per person, Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Ukok Plateau: Estimated cost: ₹500 per person, Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours
Thursday, June 6, 2024: Krasnoyarsk
Take a day trip to Krasnoyarsk, a vibrant city nestled along the Yenisei River. Start your day with a visit to Stolby Nature Reserve, famous for its unique rock formations and hiking trails. Enjoy a local lunch in the city center. In the afternoon, explore Krasnoyarsk Regional Museum, showcasing the history and culture of the region. Take a relaxing stroll along the Yenisei River promenade before returning to Novosibirsk in the evening.
Stolby Nature Reserve: Estimated cost: ₹300 per person, Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours
Krasnoyarsk Regional Museum: Estimated cost: ₹200 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Friday, June 7, 2024: Omsk
Visit the city of Omsk, known for its rich history and architectural wonders. Start your day with a tour of Omsk Fortress, a well-preserved 18th-century citadel. Enjoy a traditional Siberian lunch in the city center. In the afternoon, explore the Omsk State Museum of History and Culture and learn about the city's past. Take a leisurely walk along Lyubinsky Avenue in the evening before returning to Novosibirsk.
Omsk Fortress: Estimated cost: ₹200 per person, Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours
Omsk State Museum of History and Culture: Estimated cost: ₹300 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Saturday, June 8, 2024: Novosibirsk Exploration
Spend your last day in Novosibirsk exploring the city's highlights. In the morning, visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and admire its stunning architecture. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, explore the State Art Museum, showcasing a wide range of Russian artworks. Take a stroll in Lenin Square, the city's central square, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. In the evening, indulge in a traditional Russian dinner before bidding farewell to Siberia.
Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Free, Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours
State Art Museum: Estimated cost: ₹200 per person, Estimated time spent: 2 hours
Lenin Square: Free, Estimated time spent: 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
As a family-friendly destination, Siberia offers several hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Children's Railway in Novosibirsk, where kids can enjoy a ride on a miniature railway. Explore the Mammoth Museum in Yakutsk, which showcases fascinating exhibits about the Ice Age. Don't miss the Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture near Irkutsk, where you can learn about traditional Siberian village life.