Cape Khoboy is the northernmost point of Olkhon Island, the main destination for all northern island excursions and one of Baikal`s most iconic landmarks. Its name translates from Buryat as "fang," perfectly describing the shape of this majestic marble cliff soaring skyward above the waters of the Maloye More (Small Sea). This is a place where you can feel the full power of Baikal — where endless watery expanses, ancient cliffs, and centuries-old legends merge into one.
Geography and Geology
The cape is located 40 km from the village of Khuzhir and is the extreme northern point of Olkhon, dividing the Maloye More and the open Baikal.
Geological Features:
• The cape`s cliffs are composed of crystalline limestone and marble over 500 million years old
• The height of the rock cliffs reaches 50-100 meters above Lake Baikal`s level
• The western slope of the cape is subject to severe wind erosion, which has created unique through grottos and natural arches
Sacred Sites and Rituals
Main Ritual Site: Wooden serge (hitching posts) are located on the approaches to the cape, where pilgrims tie colorful ribbons (zalaa) — this is an appeal to the spirits of the cape with requests for protection and the fulfillment of wishes.
Stone Altar: At the very tip of the cape, a ritual obo (cairn) is built — a pyramid of stones where offerings are left for the spirits of Baikal (coins, grain, milk).
Place of Power: On the plateau before the cape, there is a special energy zone where meditations and shamanic rituals are traditionally held.
Legends of Cape Khoboy
Legend of the Woman-Rock: According to the most famous legend, the Khoboy rock is a petrified Buryat woman turned to stone by the gods for envying her husband`s wealth. By one version, she asked the tengris (sky spirits) for a palace like her husband`s; by another — she was stingy with milk. In profile, the rock indeed resembles a female figure.
Legend of the Dragon: Another legend states that the rock is a frozen dragon that tried to cross from the mainland to Olkhon but turned to stone with the first rays of the sun.
Place of Shamanic Power: It is believed that "gates" to other worlds are located here, and the powerful winds at the cape are the voices of spirits communicating with the living.
Natural Arches of the Western Slope
Unique landforms created by winds on the western side of the cape:
• Through arch "Khoboy Gate" — you can make there nice pictures
• Grotto "Shaman`s Cave" with an acoustic effect
• Wind-eroded niches with perfectly polished walls
Winter Excursions and Unique Formations
• Giant ice splashes (sokui) form, reaching heights of 10-15 meters
• Grottos and caves adorned with ice stalactites and crystals
• Transparent Baikal ice with intricate cracks
How to Get There
• Summer: By off-road vehicle on a dirt road from Khuzhir (2-3 hours)
• Winter: By car on the ice of Lake Baikal (1-1.5 hours)
Important:
• Strong winds constantly blow on the cape — windproof clothing is essential
• Approaches to the cliffs are dangerous — caution is necessary
• Ritual sites require respectful attitude
Cape Khoboy is not just a geographical object, but a place where everyone can feel the breath of ancient Baikal, touch centuries-old legends, and experience the power of one of the most potent power places of the sacred lake.
