Salekhard



Salekhard (Russian: Салеха́рд suh-lyeh-KHAHRT) is a city in Yamalia, and is the only city in the world located on the Arctic Circle. It is the administrative center of Yamalia, and was the first permanent Russian settlement in the region, founded following the conquest of the Khanate of Siberia.

Get in
Salekhard has a small domestic airport which serves flights from Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Yekaterinburg and other regional cities on a daily basis.

Direct train services are also available several times a week from both Saint Petersburg and Moscow, usually taking two nights. Trains arrive at the terminus, across the Ob river. Buses or ferries cover the last few kilometers into Salekhard.

During summer, ferries sail along the Ob River from the more southern railhead at Priobye, a convenient option if arriving from central Russia. See timetable.

Do
In spring, the big event is the Day of The Reindeer Herder, as reindeer outnumber people in these parts, and reindeer husbandry is a way of life for many. The event is noted by, as you might expect, the congregation of reindeer herders and their reindeer, with sleigh rides and herding events. Also, be on the lookout for Aurora Borealis above throughout the year.

Eat
For fairly formal dining, the Yuribey Hotel features the fittingly-named Yuribey Restaurant, with a northern Russian theme.

Drink
One dependable place would be the lobby bar or Winter Garden bar at the Yuribey Hotel.