All of Siberia lies in Asia, yet people are surprised to meet Asiatic Siberians?

The Buryat have lived around Baikal for centuries. They’re related to the Mongolians (linguistically) but their culture is more adapted to the forests and mountains of their homeland. They prefer wooden houses to gers, for example, and have intermarried with their Russian neighbours considerably. Nonetheless, they are Buddhists, and happily prepare Steppe food like poozy (dumplings) alongside Russian food too.

Visitors are always dazzled by the colourful national dress of the women, and the spectacular monasteries native to the area. Buryatia has magnificent mountain and river-valley scenery, and is a great location for activities like Kayaking.

Finally, there’s East Baikal – yes, you can get to the great lake from this side too, and there are charming sleepy villages where they smoke the Omul, and you probably won’t see another foreigner.