Cape Burkhan, Khuzhir, Irkutsk Oblast, Russia
One of the most mysterious and popular places on Lake Baikal is Shamanka Rock (also known as Cape Burkhan and Cape Shaman) on Olkhon Island near the village of Khuzhir. Shamanka ends with a bimodal rock, called «Shaman-Skala» (Shaman-Rock). The cape is located within the Baikal National Park, and it holds the status of a state natural and historical monument.
Shaman-Rock is the most famous symbol of the lake; all photo collections of this natural phenomenon include this rock. The cape consists of crystalline limestone with quartz veins, and the adjacent shore — granite rock. The rock is covered with bright red lichen. Near the coast the rock is 30 meters high, its furthest part — 42 meters high.
Closer to the shore stands the winding Shaman Cave within the rock. The cave is about 12 meters long, fr om 3 to 4.5 meters wide, and fr om 1 to 6.5 meters high. The cave can be accessed from two sides — the north-east and the west. There are side corridors and a narrow vent in the cave.
Epic Russia Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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