In winter, Baikal freezes into a vast expanse of ice so thick and clear that it resembles glass. Cracks form with loud, echoing sounds, and bubbles frozen beneath the surface create patterns that look almost otherworldly. For centuries, people have crossed the frozen lake on foot, by sled, and later by vehicle, using… Read More

It is the deepest freshwater lake on Earth and among the oldest, formed through tectonic processes that began more than twenty-five million years ago. Unlike most lakes, which fill depressions created by glaciers or rivers, Baikal sits within an active rift zone where the Earth’s crust is slowly pulling apart. This o… Read More

of landscapes like the Lena Pillars. Climate warming affects permafrost stability, river flow patterns, and surrounding ecosystems. While the stone formations themselves are resilient, changes in the broader environment could alter how the area is accessed and managed. These concerns highlight the interconnectedness … Read More

Dense taiga forests stretch away from the river, home to wildlife adapted to harsh climates. In summer, the forest hums with insects and birdlife, while in winter it falls into deep silence. Human presence is sparse, limited mainly to small settlements and seasonal visitors. This relative absence of development allow… Read More