How to get to Talakan

Talakan is a settlement of hydropower engineers in the Amur Region of the Russian Federation, situated amidst scenic hills and taiga on the shores of the Bureya Reservoir. People travel here not for a classic resort holiday, but to witness the power of hydroelectric engineering and enjoy the austere yet captivating beauty of Far Eastern nature.

Reaching this secluded corner is usually done by transit through the region's major cities. Travellers will need to combine different modes of transport, including a flight to the regional centre followed by a journey by car or bus.

Since there is no civil airport in the settlement itself that accepts regular passenger flights, the air route lies through the regional centre. The nearest major aviation hub is the airport in the city of Blagoveshchensk (Ignatyevo), which receives aircraft from Moscow and other cities in the country.

Upon arrival, travellers will need to cover the remaining part of the journey (about 200 km) to the destination by ground transport. The airport has good connections to the bus station, from where services depart towards the settlement of Talakan.

There is no direct rail connection to the settlement of Talakan, as railway tracks do not extend there. The optimal option for tourists is to take a train to Bureya station (Novobureyskiy settlement), which is significantly closer to the final goal than the regional centre.

One can also consider a route via Blagoveshchensk, however, this will significantly extend the travel time by car or bus after disembarking from the train. From both stations, you will need to reach the settlement by taxi or suburban transport.

Bus services connect Talakan with nearby populated areas and the regional centre. Regular services depart from the bus station in the city of Blagoveshchensk, passing through the settlement of Novobureyskiy, which is the most budget-friendly way to get to the location.

Travel time and ticket availability should be checked in advance, as the schedule may change depending on the season and road conditions. A bus trip will allow you to enjoy the taiga landscapes of the Amur Region from the window.

Travelling by car is one of the most convenient ways to get to Talakan, allowing you to plan stops independently. The main route runs from the city of Blagoveshchensk along the "Amur" federal highway: the distance is about 258 kilometres, which usually takes approximately 3.3 hours of driving.

The road passes through picturesque terrain but requires attentiveness, especially during the winter period. You can also use intercity taxi services, the cost of which will depend on the class of the vehicle and the time of day.

A trip to Talakan requires preparation, as it is not a tourist centre but a working settlement with a challenging climate. The following recommendations will help make your trip comfortable and safe.

1. Seasonal Clothing. The climate here is sharply continental. In winter, a warm down jacket and thermal underwear are mandatory, as frosts can be extreme. In summer, do not forget repellents—midges and mosquitoes in the taiga are very active.
2. Transport. You can move around the settlement itself on foot; it is compact. For trips to the reservoir or observation decks, it is better to arrange a local taxi.
3. Cash. Bank cards are accepted in supermarkets, but in small shops or when paying for fares, cash rubles may be required. There are few ATMs here.
4. First Aid Kit. Bring a necessary supply of medicines with you, especially if you take specific prescription drugs. Local pharmacies have a basic assortment.
5. Communication. Major Russian operators work stably, but mobile internet may be slow. The Russian language is the primary and only language for communication.
6. Etiquette and Behaviour. This is a settlement of energy workers; peace and order are valued here. Avoid loud behaviour in residential areas during the evening hours.
7. Restricted Areas. Be attentive: approaches to the HPP dam and certain technical facilities may be closed to outsiders and guarded.
8. Fishing. If you enjoy fishing, be sure to bring your gear—the Bureya Reservoir is famous for its catches of pike and taimen.

By observing these simple rules, you can avoid everyday inconveniences and focus on the unique atmosphere of the Far Eastern hydro-construction site.