Natsional'nyy Park Respubliki Tyva

Located at the geographical center of Asia, where the Kaa-Khem and Bii-Khem rivers merge into the mighty Yenisei, lies the National Park of the Republic of Tyva. This remarkable site in the city of Kyzyl is Siberia's only natural city park that has successfully preserved its pristine forest within a dry steppe zone.

For travelers visiting this region of Russia, the park serves as a living nature museum. It is home to rare plants and species listed in the Red Book. More than just a walking area, it is a site of immense aesthetic and recreational value, included in the republic's list of historical and cultural monuments.

The park's charm is enhanced by Tuvan cultural elements: a "figurine town" featuring people and animals in traditional styles, elegant bridges over channels, and modern art installations. The combination of water, lush forests, and fresh air makes it a primary attraction for all visitors to the capital.

For more information about events or the operation of the amusement rides, you can use the following contact details:

There is something for everyone in this park. Those seeking a peaceful retreat will enjoy strolling through shaded alleys and photo-hunting for rare birds and insects. Be sure to walk to the riverbank to admire the birthplace of the great Yenisei and see the famous arched bridges built back in the 1960s.

Families will find excellent facilities: there is a children's figurine town built in the national style, a fountain, and various amusement rides. During the warmer months, catamaran rides along the calm channels are especially popular.

The cultural program is equally rich, with frequent sports festivals, open-air concerts on the dance floor, and exhibitions. In winter, the park becomes a hub for active lifestyles, offering great cross-country skiing trails and ice rinks.

Finding this green oasis is easy, as it is located in the heart of the city at 1 Kochetova Street. If you are already in the city center, the park entrance is within easy walking distance — just head toward the confluence of the Kaa-Khem and Bii-Khem rivers.

For those who prefer public transport, city buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) serving the central districts stop just a short walk away. If you are arriving from the airport, a taxi ride will take about 30–40 minutes. Travelers arriving by car should follow the R257 "Yenisei" federal highway, which leads directly into the city; parking spaces are typically available near the central entrance.

The history of this remarkable natural corner began during the era of the Tuvan People's Republic — it opened on April 5, 1928, under the poetic name "Natural Island of Rest." At the time, it was the first and only large-scale green space in the young, growing city. Later, in 1960, the park was named after Hero of the Soviet Union Nikolay Gastello.

A significant milestone in the park's development occurred in 1984, when new bridges, amusement rides, and an exhibition building were added to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Tuva joining the USSR. In 1993, the site was officially granted the status of the National Park of Culture of the Republic of Tyva, highlighting its unique regional importance.

Today, the park is recognized as a historical and cultural monument. In 2023, it celebrated its 95th anniversary, remaining a living witness to the capital's transformation while carefully preserving the pristine nature of the Siberian forest in the heart of the modern city.

To leisurely enjoy the park's atmosphere, it is worth planning a visit of 2 to 4 hours. This is plenty of time to stroll along the forest paths to the river confluence, admire the national sculptures, and relax by the fountain.

If you plan on more active recreation — such as enjoying the amusement rides, renting pedal boats, or participating in a cultural event — you could easily spend the whole day here, perhaps enjoying a small picnic in the designated areas.

The National Park is open to visitors 24 hours a day, daily. You can come here for an early morning jog or a late evening stroll under the lanterns.

Please note: Individual facilities on the grounds, such as the amusement rides, the exhibition hall, or equipment rentals, have their own operating hours, which may change depending on the season and weather conditions. To check the current schedule for special events, it is recommended to visit official city resources.

A stroll through the park's shaded alleys can be perfectly combined with visits to other attractions in Tyva's capital. Nearby, you will find iconic monuments and cultural sites that offer deeper insight into the history and character of this region.