Chersky Stone viewpoint - Image 1
1 / 10

Chersky Stone Viewpoint

4.8
·119 reviews·, Russia

Witness the majestic Lake Baikal and the Angara River from this iconic viewpoint, featuring the mystical Shaman Stone.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour light for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Chersky Stone viewpoint - Image 1

Chersky Stone Viewpoint

Best Time

Sunset

Golden hour light for stunning photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Witness the majestic Lake Baikal and the Angara River from this iconic viewpoint, featuring the mystical Shaman Stone.

4.8
(119 reviews)

"Best natural place in the city Irkutsk! I recommended."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check the Weather Forecast

Only visit on clear days for the best views and photos. Cloudy weather can ruin the experience. :cloud:

Sunset is Magical

The light during sunset is incredible for photography and appreciating the scenery. :sunriseovermountains:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Lake Baikal Views

Panoramic Lake Baikal Views

Observation Deck

Breathtaking vistas of the vast Lake Baikal and the Angara River. A must-see natural wonder.

Shaman Stone (Shaman-Kamen)

Shaman Stone (Shaman-Kamen)

View from Observation Deck

An iconic natural monument steeped in local legends and history, visible from the viewpoint.

Angara River Estuary

Angara River Estuary

View from Observation Deck

Witness the powerful Angara River as it flows from Lake Baikal, a significant geographical feature.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Weather is Key for Views

Chersky Stone Viewpoint offers stunning panoramas, but only in good weather. Cloudy days can obscure the views and make photos disappointing. Plan your visit for clear skies to truly appreciate the natural beauty of Lake Baikal and the Angara River.

Timing Your Visit for the Best Light

For the most breathtaking scenery and photographic opportunities, aim for sunset. The golden hour light illuminates the landscape beautifully. Consider a quick visit if you're on a Lake Baikal tour, as it can be seen in about 30 minutes.

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour light for stunning photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Clear Mornings
Why
Best visibility for landscapes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Check the Weather Forecast

Only visit on clear days for the best views and photos. Cloudy weather can ruin the experience. :cloud:

Sunset is Magical

The light during sunset is incredible for photography and appreciating the scenery. :sunriseovermountains:

Quick Stop on Baikal Tours

If on a Lake Baikal tour, this is often a short 30-minute stop. Enjoy the quick views! :bus:

Free to Visit

There's no cost to access the viewpoint and admire the natural beauty. :moneywithwings:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check the Weather Forecast

Only visit on clear days for the best views and photos. Cloudy weather can ruin the experience. :cloud:

Sunset is Magical

The light during sunset is incredible for photography and appreciating the scenery. :sunriseovermountains:

Quick Stop on Baikal Tours

If on a Lake Baikal tour, this is often a short 30-minute stop. Enjoy the quick views! :bus:

Free to Visit

There's no cost to access the viewpoint and admire the natural beauty. :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(119 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Chersky Stone Viewpoint for its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking panoramas of Lake Baikal and the Angara River. The iconic Shaman Stone adds a mystical element, and the free access is a significant plus. However, the experience is highly weather-dependent, with cloudy days diminishing the visual impact and photographic potential.

"best natural place in the city Irkutsk! i recomended."

Irkutsk Baikal

"Nice very nice view."

Ни Б

"It’s worth going up to the site only in good weather. It’s better to watch the sunset in the evening. In cloudy weather, the photos are bad."

Браун Brown

What People Like

Incredible natural views
Iconic Shaman Stone
Free admission

What People Dislike

Weather dependent views

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chersky Stone Viewpoint is located near Listvyanka village. Many tours to Lake Baikal include a stop here. If traveling independently, you can reach Listvyanka by bus or taxi from Irkutsk. The viewpoint itself is an equipped observation deck accessible from the village. Reddit

Listvyanka village, where Chersky Stone is located, is about an hour's drive from Irkutsk. It's a popular day trip destination. Reddit

Yes, from Listvyanka village, it's a relatively short walk to the equipped observation deck. The path is generally well-maintained. Reddit

It's often visited as part of a broader Lake Baikal tour that might include Listvyanka village attractions and boat trips. Reddit

Buses run regularly from Irkutsk to Listvyanka. From Listvyanka, you can walk to the viewpoint. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, access to the Chersky Stone Viewpoint is free. You can enjoy the natural beauty and views without any admission fee. Reddit

The viewpoint is an outdoor natural attraction and is generally accessible at any time. However, for the best experience, visit during daylight hours. Reddit

To avoid crowds, try visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays. Weekends and midday can be busier, especially during peak tourist season. Reddit

No booking is required as it's a natural viewpoint and free to access. Reddit

Sunset is highly recommended for photography due to the beautiful light. Clear mornings also offer excellent visibility. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main observation deck offers the most iconic views of Lake Baikal and the Shaman Stone. Experiment with different angles to capture the vastness of the lake. Reddit

For landscapes, use a wider aperture (smaller f-number) for a deep depth of field. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky. Reddit

Reviews suggest that cloudy weather significantly impacts photo quality, making them less impressive. It's best to visit when it's clear. Reddit

Yes, modern smartphone cameras can capture great shots, especially during good lighting conditions like sunset. Reddit

Sunset is frequently recommended for its dramatic lighting. Clear mornings also provide excellent, crisp views. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You'll see a panoramic view of Lake Baikal, the Angara River, and the famous Shaman Stone. It's a significant natural monument with historical and mystical significance. Reddit

If you're on a tour, expect about 30 minutes. If visiting independently, an hour allows for leisurely viewing and photos. Reddit

The viewpoint is equipped with an observation deck. Basic amenities might be available in Listvyanka village nearby. Reddit

Numerous legends surround the Shaman Stone, adding a mystical element to the visit. Ask locals or guides for stories. Reddit

The walk from Listvyanka village to the observation deck is generally considered easy and not strenuous. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chersky Stone Viewpoint is a great, quick stop for families. The walk from Listvyanka is easy, and the panoramic views are captivating for all ages. It's a chance to introduce children to the grandeur of Lake Baikal without a strenuous hike. Reddit

Pack snacks and drinks as facilities might be limited. Ensure children are supervised near the observation deck. The free entry makes it an accessible activity for families on a budget. Consider combining it with other short, family-friendly activities in Listvyanka village.

💰 Budget Travelers

This viewpoint is a fantastic option for budget travelers as entry is completely free. Reddit The main cost would be transportation to Listvyanka village from Irkutsk, which can be done affordably via public bus. Reddit

Focus on visiting during clear weather to maximize the value of your trip. Pack your own food and water to save on expenses in Listvyanka. The stunning natural scenery provides an unforgettable experience without a hefty price tag.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Chersky Stone Viewpoint is a must-visit, especially during golden hour. The dramatic landscapes of Lake Baikal and the Angara River offer endless composition possibilities. Reddit

Be prepared for varying weather conditions; clear skies are essential for the best shots. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive panoramas and a tripod if you plan to shoot during sunset or low-light conditions. The Shaman Stone provides a unique foreground element.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mystical Shaman Stone

The Shaman Stone (Shaman-Kamen) is a prominent rock formation jutting into the Angara River, near its source from Lake Baikal. It's not just a geological feature; it's deeply embedded in the local culture and folklore of the Baikal region. For centuries, it has been considered a sacred site by indigenous peoples, believed to hold spiritual power and be a witness to the history of Baikal. Reddit

Numerous legends are associated with the Shaman Stone, often involving spirits, ancient rituals, and the very creation of the Angara River. Visitors often feel a sense of awe and mystery when gazing upon it from the Chersky Stone Viewpoint. It serves as a tangible link to the past and the enduring spiritual connection between the people and the natural world of Lake Baikal. Reddit

While you can't directly access the Shaman Stone itself from the viewpoint, its presence is a central element of the stunning panorama. Its unique shape and location make it a focal point, drawing the eye and sparking curiosity about its storied past. Reddit

Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips

Chersky Stone Viewpoint offers a prime location for capturing the majestic beauty of Lake Baikal and the Angara River. The panoramic views are the main draw, so consider a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the landscape. The Shaman Stone itself is a compelling subject, and its position in the foreground can add depth to your shots. Reddit

Timing is crucial for photography here. As mentioned in reviews, visiting during sunset bathes the landscape in warm, golden light, creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors. Clear mornings also offer excellent visibility and crisp light, ideal for capturing the details of the surrounding mountains and the clear blue waters of Baikal. Avoid midday sun, which can lead to harsh shadows and washed-out colors. Reddit

Don't forget to experiment with different perspectives. While the main observation deck provides the classic view, exploring slightly different angles might reveal unique compositions. A polarizing filter can be a valuable tool to enhance the saturation of the sky and water, reducing glare and bringing out the rich blues of Lake Baikal. Reddit

Understanding the Angara River's Significance

The Angara River is the only river that flows out of Lake Baikal, making it a unique hydrological feature. It's one of the longest tributaries of the Yenisei River and plays a vital role in the region's ecosystem and history. From Chersky Stone Viewpoint, you can witness the powerful current as it begins its journey from the world's largest freshwater lake. Reddit

The confluence of Lake Baikal and the Angara River is a visually striking sight. The clear, deep blue waters of Baikal meet the flowing river, creating a dynamic landscape. This area has been historically significant for transportation and settlement, with Listvyanka village being a key point along the river's early course. Reddit

Observing the Angara River from the viewpoint offers a sense of the immense scale and power of nature in this region. It's a reminder of the continuous flow of water and life that originates from the pristine depths of Lake Baikal. Reddit

You may also like