Novosibirsk Hydroelectric Power Station Ob HPP
A monumental Soviet-era hydroelectric power station and the vast 'Ob Sea' reservoir, a vital energy source and landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Avoid peak traffic
Novosibirsk Hydroelectric Power Station Ob HPP
Best Time
Avoid peak traffic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Soviet-era hydroelectric power station and the vast 'Ob Sea' reservoir, a vital energy source and landmark.
"A beautiful place, a striking example of labor feat and incredible enthusiasm."
Book Tours in Advance
Excursions are popular and require advance booking. Don't miss out! :ticket:
Factor in Traffic
The dam crossing can get congested. Allow extra travel time. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dam Itself
Witness the immense scale and engineering prowess of this vital power source for Novosibirsk and the region.
Ob Sea Reservoir
Experience the vast 'Ob Sea' reservoir, a beautiful expanse offering recreational opportunities in warmer months.
Historical Significance
Learn about the Soviet-era labor feat and the station's enduring role in powering Siberia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Excursions
Traffic & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Excursions are popular and require advance booking. Don't miss out! :ticket:
Factor in Traffic
The dam crossing can get congested. Allow extra travel time. :car:
Summer Reservoir Fun
Enjoy the 'Ob Sea' for views and activities in warmer months. :sunny:
Winter Kiting
Experience kite surfing on the frozen reservoir in winter. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Excursions are popular and require advance booking. Don't miss out! :ticket:
Factor in Traffic
The dam crossing can get congested. Allow extra travel time. :car:
Summer Reservoir Fun
Enjoy the 'Ob Sea' for views and activities in warmer months. :sunny:
Winter Kiting
Experience kite surfing on the frozen reservoir in winter. :snowflake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Novosibirsk Hydroelectric Power Station as a beautiful and strategically important landmark, highlighting its impressive scale and historical significance. The 'Ob Sea' reservoir adds to its appeal, offering scenic views and winter sports opportunities. However, the dam is frequently cited as a major traffic congestion point.
"👌👌👌👍"
Ajit Singh Grewal
"A beautiful place. In summer there are great views, and in winter you can go kiting on the reservoir starting from the dam. On the downside - it is one of the places with the most traffic jams."
Stanislav Chulkov
"A strategically important object of the city of Novosibirsk, not every city has its own hydroelectric power station, I consider it a landmark.
And it’s also very beautiful here))"
Артем Вагин
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The HPP is accessible by car, but be prepared for potential traffic on the dam crossing, which connects the two sides of the Ob River. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi is advisable. Many visitors arrive by car to explore the surrounding areas and the reservoir.
Parking availability can vary, especially during busy periods. It's best to arrive early or be prepared to search for a spot. Some areas around the reservoir might offer more parking options.
While the dam serves as a crossing, it's primarily designed for vehicular traffic. Walking or cycling might be possible in designated areas, but it's advisable to check local regulations and safety guidelines beforehand. The focus is on the power station's industrial aspect.
The HPP is located on the Ob River, and access is typically via roads that lead to the dam. These roads are part of the city's infrastructure connecting different districts.
The Novosibirsk HPP is situated on the outskirts of the city, near the Ob River. Travel time from the city center can vary significantly depending on traffic conditions, especially on the dam itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, guided tours to the Novosibirsk Hydroelectric Power Station require tickets. Since 2016, the facility has been open for excursions, but booking in advance is essential.
Tours can typically be booked through official channels or authorized tour operators. It's recommended to check the official website of the power station or local Novosibirsk tourism resources for the most up-to-date booking information.
Tour availability and hours can vary. It's crucial to check the specific schedule when booking, as these are guided excursions and not a general public access area.
Information on age restrictions for tours is usually provided during the booking process. Given it's an industrial site, there might be specific safety guidelines for younger visitors.
Ticket prices for the guided tours are subject to change. You can find the most accurate pricing information when you go to book your excursion through the official channels.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary within industrial sites. While general views of the dam and reservoir might be permitted, access to certain operational areas during tours could have restrictions. Always follow the guide's instructions.
The dam itself offers impressive perspectives, especially from a distance or designated viewing points. The reservoir also provides scenic backdrops, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
Operating drones over critical infrastructure like hydroelectric power stations is often restricted or prohibited due to security reasons. It's essential to check local aviation regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
Locals often highlight the grandeur of the dam and the expansive views of the 'Ob Sea' reservoir. Capturing the scale of the engineering feat is a common theme in photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dam and reservoir. If tours allow access to interior machinery, a versatile zoom lens could be useful. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions.
🎫 💡 Onsite Experience
Tours offer insights into the station's history, engineering, and operation. You'll likely see the dam structure, learn about electricity generation, and understand its importance to the region.
The HPP can be interesting for families, especially older children who are fascinated by engineering and large-scale projects. The historical context and the sheer size of the structure are impressive.
The reservoir area is beautiful year-round. In summer, it's ideal for enjoying the views and potential water activities. In winter, it transforms into a frozen landscape, popular for winter sports like kite surfing.
Facilities available during tours will depend on the specific arrangements. It's advisable to check with your tour provider or the HPP administration about available amenities.
The 'Ob Sea' is the reservoir created by the Novosibirsk HPP. It's a significant body of water that plays a role in the region's power generation, water supply, and recreation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the site is industrial, the surrounding reservoir area, known as the 'Ob Sea,' can offer more relaxed environments for families during warmer months. Consider visiting during a weekday to potentially avoid larger crowds and allow for a more comfortable experience. Remember to check for any age-specific guidelines for the tours when booking.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Consider combining your visit with exploration of the reservoir's shores or nearby recreational areas. If you're looking for a unique experience, booking a guided tour in advance can provide deeper insights into the HPP's history and operation, making it a more enriching day trip.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Engineering Marvel of Siberia
Beyond its primary function, the HPP also created the Ob Sea reservoir, a vast artificial lake that has reshaped the local landscape and ecosystem. This reservoir is not only vital for the power station's operation but also serves multiple purposes, including water supply and recreation. The scale of the dam and the power it generates are truly awe-inspiring, making it a landmark of industrial significance.
Since 2016, the HPP has opened its doors to the public through guided excursions. This offers a unique opportunity to understand the inner workings of such a critical piece of infrastructure, learn about its history, and appreciate the engineering brilliance behind it. Visitors can expect to gain a deeper understanding of how hydroelectric power is generated and the enduring legacy of this Siberian giant.
Navigating Novosibirsk's Traffic Hub
During peak hours, the dam can experience significant congestion, leading to lengthy traffic jams. This is a common point of frustration for locals and a factor visitors should consider when planning their travel. The single lane in each direction, as noted by some residents, contributes to the slowdowns, making it an outdated part of the city's modern traffic flow.
When visiting the HPP or planning to cross the dam, it's highly recommended to check real-time traffic conditions. Opting for off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays, can significantly improve your travel experience. Alternatively, exploring public transport options or ride-sharing services might offer a less stressful way to navigate this busy area.


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