Gorno-Altaisk (Russian: Го́рно-Алта́йск GOHR-nuh uhl-TIGHSK) is the capital of the Altai Republic.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
Situated in the foothills of the Altai Mountains, Gorno-Altaisk has a population of around 55,000. Most of organized tourist groups pass by the city since it is not on the routes to major destinations. However, there is a lot to see. The city is located on the northern border of the Altai Republic in a valley of two rivers. Millions of years ago it was a lake here, but the feeding river Maima changed position and the lake disappeared. Ancient people started to settle here around a hundred thousand years ago. Sprawled 10 kilometers from east to west and 7,5km from north to south, the city has 200 streets and pereouloks.
The main transport in town are buses and marshrutkas (30 routes). Taxis are from 60 руб. On a sunny day a walk takes 2 hours.
Museum of regional studies. 46, Choros-Gurkina st. Archeological findings, paintings of Choros-Gurkin, who is the first Altai painter, old photographs. The Drama theater (a big white building with animal ornament) offers plays in Altai and Russian languages. Art-salon Enchi of ethnic art. Address: 38, Choros-Gurkina st.
There are trails to the mountains and as the mountains are quite high, the views are fascinating. Mountain ski base (two hills 641m and 421m high) is very close to the city. Operates from December to March.
All cafes and restaurants are located along the main streets.
The natural water springs are coming to the earth surface at the Central Park alley opposite the City Hall and at the Dinamo stadium. Night club Galaktika
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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