How to get to Abakan

Located in the very heart of Asia, Abakan is the welcoming and verdant capital of Khakassia, opening doors for travellers to a world of ancient burial mounds and majestic Siberian landscapes. This city serves as the ideal starting point for exploring the region, combining the comfort of modern infrastructure with proximity to wild nature. You can get here in various ways: by a direct flight, by train along legendary railways, or by car via scenic highways.

The fastest way to reach Khakassia is to take a flight to the international Abakan Airport. The air gateway is located practically within the city limits and receives regular flights from Moscow and other major centres, ensuring excellent transport accessibility.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to neighbouring Krasnoyarsk, which is approximately 272 kilometres away and serves a larger number of destinations. Additionally, the airports of Novokuznetsk and Kyzyl are located within a radius of 300 kilometres, providing extra options when planning your route.

A railway journey to Abakan is a comfortable and reliable travel option. The city operates a railway station that receives direct trains from Moscow and other regions, allowing you to reach the capital of Khakassia without unnecessary transfers.

Another popular route is travelling via Krasnoyarsk, a major transport hub of the Trans-Siberian Railway. From there, trains run daily connecting the regional centre with Khakassia, allowing tourists to enjoy views of Siberian nature from the carriage window.

Bus services remain a popular and economical way to reach the city from neighbouring regions. Regular trips connect Abakan with a major transport hub — the city of Krasnoyarsk, with a travel time of about 5–6 hours.

A scenic route also runs from the Republic of Tuva, from the city of Kyzyl. Modern intercity buses ensure an acceptable level of comfort, allowing you to cover distances between Siberian cities while observing the changing landscapes.

Travelling by car will give you independence and the opportunity to see the beauty of the R-257 "Yenisey" highway. The popular route from the city of Krasnoyarsk, spanning about 410 km, will take you approximately 5 hours on a road with high-quality surfacing.

No less picturesque is the road from the city of Kyzyl: the distance of 392 km is also covered on average in 5 hours. For those driving from the Kuzbass region, the journey from the city of Novokuznetsk will be longer — about 853 km and 11 hours behind the wheel, but it will allow you to see the diverse nature of Siberia.

To make your stay in the capital of Khakassia as pleasant and safe as possible, we have prepared several important recommendations. Considering the specifics of the region, these simple tips will help you better plan your trip.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate in Abakan is sharply continental. In summer it can be hot, so pack light clothes and a head covering, but bring a windbreaker for the evenings. In winter, warm footwear and a down jacket are mandatory, as frosts can be severe.
2. Transport. It is convenient to move around the city by trolleybuses and buses; the route network covers all main districts. Taxis operate via popular apps and are relatively inexpensive.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Russian Ruble. Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, including supermarkets and cafes, but for trips to remote districts of the republic, it is better to have a reserve of cash.
4. Health and Safety. The city is safe for tourists. However, if you plan outings into nature in spring or early summer, be aware of tick activity: use repellents and wear modest, covered clothing. Pharmacies are available throughout the city.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is Russian. Locals are hospitable and will always help with directions. English is not understood everywhere, so having an offline translator app is useful.
6. Local Etiquette. In Khakassia, national traditions are treated with respect. When visiting sacred sites and menhirs, behave with restraint and respect; do not make noise or leave litter.
7. What to Avoid. Do not tie ribbons (chalama) on trees at sacred sites for fun — this is a religious ritual requiring knowledge of the rules. Inappropriate actions may offend the sentiments of local residents.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to discover Khakassian cuisine, for example, the khan blood sausage or the dessert made from talgan. This will allow you to immerse yourself deeper into the region's culture.

Observing these simple rules will make your journey through Khakassia comfortable and leave only warm memories of Siberian hospitality.