Republic of Tyva: A Natural Wonder of Russia
This Chapter Reveals How Within One of Russia's Most Enigmatic and Distinctive Regions, Lies a Land of Incredibly Diverse Nature, Astounding in Its Beauty and Abundance...
Our series on Siberia's boundless domain continues, and now we turn to the natural wonders of the Republic of Tyva.
Poised at the crossroads of Siberia and Central Asia, Tyva is a land that holds the essence of both regions and is famous for its spectacular scenery, ranging from high snow-topped mountains and mysterious forests to vast lakes and rich grasslands. It boasts an abundance of medicinal springs and natural landmarks. Yet, the nature of Tyva is not merely a set of landscapes and sites; it is a vibrant ecosystem with each element playing a crucial role.
What Majestic Mountains!
Mountainous terrain is the hallmark of Tyva. Highlands and chains of mountain ridges cover almost half of the republic, forming a magnificent landscape. To the north and east lie the ridges and spurs of the Sayan Mountains, with peaks ranging between 2,000–3,000 meters, while the west is framed by the ranges and offshoots of the Altai Mountains.
Möngün-Taiga, Tyva’s tallest peak at 3,976 meters, is capped with snow and considered sacred by locals. On clear days, it shines like silver in the sun, which is why its Tuvan name means "Silver Mountain". Another sacred mountain is Kyzyl-Taiga, the highest peak of the Western Sayan (3,121 m). The locals call it the “red forest”, possibly named for the red larch trees and blooming bright red poppies on its slopes.
Mount Dogee, situated on the northern outskirts of the capital city Kyzyl, on the right bank of the Yenisei River, is considered one of the republic's principal landmarks. The summit reveals wondrous vistas: The confluence of the Great and Little Yenisei Rivers, the peaks of the Western Sayan mountains, and a bird's-eye view of Kyzyl. For generations, locals have regarded this mountain as sacred, believing that climbing it lifts the spirit and banishes negative thoughts.
Botanical Symphony
The forest is undoubtedly the republic's greatest natural wealth, covering a vast expanse of over 8 million hectares. Tyva's climate, blending continental and mountainous features, creates the perfect conditions for diverse ecosystems.
The western region hosts taiga forests, featuring conifers such as larch and pine. These forests do more than supply locals with precious building timber; they also provide a sanctuary for countless animals. From the east, these forests are adjoined by light coniferous forest and steppe ecosystems where region-specific herbs such as wormwood and rhodiola, packed with vitamins and micronutrients, thrive. These have long been utilized by the Tuvinians, and many possess medicinal properties.
Tyva is unique for its high-mountain tundras. These wildlife sanctuaries feature low-growing shrubs such as the dwarf birch, and various mosses and lichens. Despite the severe climate, these plants form remarkable clusters and adapt well to their environment. Tyva is home to about 15,000 species, with around 40 species endemic and listed in the Red List (including lady's slipper, iris tigridia, lilium pumilum, etc.).
Water Wealth
Tyva is abundant in water resources such as rivers, lakes, subterranean waters, alpine glaciers and healing springs. The republic has over 2,000 rivers and around 6,729 lakes. It is here that one of Russia's mightiest and most stunning rivers, the Yenisei, originates. Majestic and alluring, its banks are protected by endless forests, teeming with life, home not just to magnificent scenery but also to rare wildlife.
Tyva's lakes add to this natural magnificence: They are like mirrors, reflecting the infinite sky and mountains, offering tranquility and harmony. The largest and deepest freshwater lake in the Tyva basin is Chagytai, located 70 km south of Kyzyl at 1,005 meters above sea level. The very picture of absolute purity and beauty: Its crystal-clear waters reveal the pebbled bottom even at the depth of 3-4 meters on calm, sunny days. This spot is favored by tourists and fishermen alike. It's home to ide, pike, peled, bream, carp, grayling, dace and others.
Lake Dus-Khol (Svatikovo) stands out as a crucial natural landmark and one of the most popular salt lakes. Its water properties closely resemble the renowned Dead Sea. The water is rich in salts and is said to provide healing benefits for muscle-skeleton disorders and skin diseases. The lake's former name, Svatikovo, honors an industrialist involved in salt extraction in this area.
One of Tyva's unique gems is the Durgen Waterfall that lies on the northern slope of the Tannu-Ola mountain range at an altitude of 1,700 meters, formed by the mighty currents of the mountain river Durgen. This place possesses a beauty worthy of a painter's canvas. Here, you can forget the hustle and bustle as you watch towering cliffs cloaked in forest while the rushing river carves its way through the Durgen Canyon.
What's your impression of Tyva's nature? To us, it's truly unique!
Traveling across Tyva's vast lands is a must for everyone to behold its unique splendor firsthand!