Things To Do
in Krasnokamensk

Krasnokamensk is a mining town in Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia, built around the Priargunsky uranium mining complex. It sits in a harsh Siberian landscape where taiga forests meet the Shilka River and wide skies. The city features Soviet-era architecture blended with practical, workaday amenities that serve its residents and workers.

Visitors should expect a quiet, no-frills experience with striking winter scenery and a firsthand look at life in a remote Russian mining community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of the Mining Town
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local history museum to learn about Krasnokamensk's rich mining heritage. Enjoy a traditional Russian breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local delicacies. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring the unique Soviet-era architecture.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the nearby open-pit mine for a guided tour, getting a firsthand look at the mining operations that define the town. Enjoy a packed lunch while soaking in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. To finish the afternoon, visit local artisans' workshops and discover handmade crafts representative of the area's culture.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a cozy restaurant, relishing regional dishes while mingling with friendly locals. Afterwards, take a walk through the beautifully lit town square, soaking in the tranquil evening atmosphere. Consider enjoying a traditional Russian tea ceremony to end your day on a high note.

day 2
A Day with Nature
morning
:

Start the day early with a refreshing hike in the nearby hills, absorbing the stunning natural scenery and possibly encountering local wildlife. Grab a hearty breakfast at your accommodation to fuel up for your outdoor adventures. The fresh mountain air will certainly invigorate you.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and find a serene spot by a river or lake where you can relax and unwind in nature’s embrace. Spend the afternoon swimming or trying out fishing if conditions allow, immersing yourself in the tranquil surroundings. Capture the beauty of the landscapes with photos, creating memories to last a lifetime.

evening
:

Return to town for dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can enjoy a fusion of Russian and Italian cuisines. After dining, find a spot to watch the sunset painting the sky in vibrant colors—a perfect end to your nature day. If you're in the mood, look for live music spots featuring local talents.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Cup of coffee$1-3
🚕Taxi within town$2-6
🧺Groceries (weekly staples)$40-60
🎬Movie or entertainment ticket$4-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, authentic Siberian experience with genuine local life
  • Affordability and accessibility of basic services
  • Remote location with limited nightlife and English-speaking staff
  • Less developed tourism infrastructure compared to larger cities
  • "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
  • "Пожалуйста" - Please
  • "Спасибо" - Thank you
  • "Где находится туалет?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Krasnokamensk

Visit one of these nice places.

Soviet-era city center

A grid of wide streets and monumental buildings with stark lines and occasional mosaics typical of mid-20th-century design.

Shilka River embankment at sunset

Calm water, golden light, and silhouettes of local life along the riverbank.

Taiga forest road vista

Open views of pine and larch forests with the backdrop of winter snows or summer greenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Krasnokamensk

Heritage Siberian cuisine in Krasnokamensk focuses on hearty, warming dishes designed for long winters, with simple ingredients, and easy access to meat, grains, and dairy.

Krasnokamensk Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pelmeni

Meat-filled dumplings common across Russia; typically served with butter or sour cream and often enjoyed with tea or broth.

Must-Try!

Manty

Steamed dumplings filled with seasoned meat; a popular street and home-cooked option in the region.

Borscht

Beet soup that is hearty and often topped with sour cream; a staple in many local eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Central Market

Traditional market offering fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, pickled items, and modest street snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a harsh continental climate with very cold winters, warm to hot summers, and notable temperature swings between seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A respectful greeting is standard; address people using formal language and surnames with appropriate titles in first interactions.

Photography

Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; avoid sensitive or restricted areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Basic safety considerations include watching for icy sidewalks in winter, road hazards from snow and ice, and keeping valuables secure in public spaces. In emergencies, dial 112 for assistance.

Tipping in Krasnokamensk

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not widely customary, but small tips are appreciated in tourist-oriented venues; rounding up a bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash (Russian rubles) is widely accepted; some places accept cards; smaller vendors may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Long daylight hours, mild to warm temperatures, and active outdoor markets; mosquitoes can be present near water and in grassy areas.

Winter

Very cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions; strong gear is essential but landscapes are striking for photography.

Spring/Fall

Transitional weather with variable temperatures and precipitation; layer up and be prepared for rapid changes.

Nightlife Guide

Krasnokamensk at Night

Krasnokamensk has a modest nightlife scene with a few bars and social venues where locals gather. Expect quiet evenings, occasional live music, and a focus on conversations over drinks rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Krasnokamensk

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Priargun Nature Reserve trails

Protected area with forest trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing; suitable for day hikes.

Taiga forests around the Shilka River

Forest-to-river hikes with scenic viewpoints and seasonal wildlife activity.

Airports

How to reach Krasnokamensk by plane.

Chita International Airport (HTA)

Regional hub offering domestic connections; closest international gateway in the Transbaikal region.

Ulan-Ude Airport (UUD)

Major regional airport serving the Transbaikal area; connections to Moscow and other cities.

Irkutsk International Airport (IKT)

Large international airport serving western Siberia; connects to major national and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable in the city center with compact streets; outskirts require bus or private transport. Winter conditions can reduce walkability due to ice and snow.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ethnic Russians

Majority of residents; Russian language predominates in daily life and services.

Minorities

Smaller communities of Buryats, Evenks, and people of East Asian descent; cultural influences appear in cuisine and markets.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice hockey

A staple winter sport with local teams and spectators; rinks are common in colder months.

Skiing

Cross-country and occasional alpine opportunities in nearby taiga hills; accessible to visitors with proper gear.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport includes buses and marshrutkas (shared minibuses). Road conditions can be challenging in winter due to snow and ice; rail connections exist but are limited, making car rental or private transfers useful for trips outside the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Krasnokamensk.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Options exist but can be limited; rely on grains, potatoes, mushrooms, vegetables, dairy, and soups; communicate needs in Russian (e.g., 'Я вегетарианец' or 'Без мяса, пожалуйста').

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities exist in Krasnokamensk, including clinics and a regional hospital. Emergency services are coordinated with broader regional networks; for complex care, travel to larger cities may be required.

Discover Russia

Read more in our Russia 2025 Travel Guide.

Russia Travel Guide