The Khuzhir Village is not just the only large settlement on Olkhon Island. It is the administrative center and main tourist base of the entire island. It is here that all the infrastructure is concentrated: from cafes and souvenir shops to most hotels and guest houses, making Khuzhir the starting point for any journey across Olkhon.
Where to Stay in the Khuzhir village
As the tourist capital of the island, Khuzhir offers the widest choice of accommodation on Olkhon. Most guest houses and hotels maintain an atmosphere of simple and sincere Baikal hospitality, but more options with increased comfort appear every year.
Port Olkhon: This hotel complex is the largest and most famous in Khuzhir. It is a whole mini town with various types of buildings. Its main advantages are its developed infrastructure and stable quality of service, making it a popular choice for organized groups and tourists.
"Baikalov Ostrog" is the largest hotel complex in Khuzhir, located south of "Port Olkhon". The uniqueness of this place lies in its architectural concept: the complex is stylized as a genuine Siberian Ostrog - a wooden fortress from the 17th-18th centuries. The territory is surrounded by a wooden stockade with watchtowers, creating a complete immersion into the atmosphere of the era of Baikal`s first explorers.
Guest Houses and Homesteads: Besides large complexes, there are dozens of private guest houses and homesteads in Khuzhir (e.g., "Nadiya", "U Olkhontsa"). They offer a more intimate, homely atmosphere, often with home cooking.
Sights of the Settlement: Culture and History
Despite its modest size, Khuzhir itself is rich in cultural sites:
The Local History Museum is named after N.M. Revyakin: This is a must-visit to understand the soul of Olkhon. Founded by a local enthusiast, the museum houses a unique collection: from archaeological finds (including ancient human burials) and household items of the Buryat people to exhibits dedicated to the island`s flora, fauna, and even political history.
Galleries and Souvenir Shops: Several art galleries operate in the settlement, the most famous of which is the Lyubov Amagaeva Gallery. Here you can see and purchase paintings, drawings, and crafts by local artists inspired by the magic of Baikal. Numerous souvenir stalls offer items made of wood, stone, and birch bark.
Natural Attractions: A Step from the Khuzhir Village
Khuzhir`s main wonders begin just outside its outskirts. The most famous attractions are within walking distance.
Cape Burkhan and Shamanka Rock: This is the landmark not only of Olkhon but of the entire Baikal. Cape Burkhan, crowned with marble Shamanka Rock, is the sacred center of the lake. The two-peaked rock is revered by both Buddhists and Shamanists. The through-cave in Shamanka was a place for rituals for a long time. Today, it is a major attraction for all tourists. Approaching the rock and making a wish by tying a colored ribbon to the ritual post "serge" is an essential ritual.
Saraysky Beach (north of Shamanka): A long sandy spit starting right behind Cape Burkhan. It is an ideal place for relaxation and walks. The gentle entrance, fine sand, and turquoise water in summer create a resort-like atmosphere.
Cape Bogatyr and Cape Tataysky (south of Shamanka): These small capes are within walking distance from Shamanka. Cape Bogatyr ends with a sharp rock, while the more extensive Cape Tataysky is one of the most famous spots to watch the sunset over the waters of Baikal.
Khuzhir serves as the key logistical and infrastructural center of Olkhon Island. The cultural sites of the settlement provide an opportunity to learn about the history and nature of Olkhon. At the same time, the main natural attractions - Cape Burkhan with Shamanka Rock, Saraysky Beach, Capes Bogatyr and Tataysky - are near the settlement.
