The first inhabitants of the Nizhny Novgorod region appeared in the Mesolithic era; evidence of this is kept in museums.
It’s worth visiting this region to see the figure-eight staircase in Nizhny Novgorod, visit the places where Seraphim of Sarov lived and try to see the Russian Atlantis - Kitezh-grad.
Here you can learn how to make nesting dolls and weave lace, carve a figure out of stone and go fishing on Lake Vadsko.
In Nizhny Novgorod there is a piece of Switzerland - this is the name of the park with well-groomed paths, a zoo and fountains.
For ease of route planning, we have marked all mentioned cities and attractions on the map of the region:
The most famous rivers in the Nizhny Novgorod region
The Nizhny Novgorod region is one of the most water-rich regions in the country. More than 9 thousand different rivers and streams flow through its territory. Of course, the main water arteries of the region are the Mother Volga and its tributary, the beautiful Oka. But here you can find many other rivers worthy of the attention of tourists.
Tesha River
- Coordinates on the map: 399106, 43.317006.
The right tributary of the Oka originates on the Volga upland. The length of the river is 311 km, it flows in a westerly direction, flowing into the Oka near the city of Murom. The water flow is replenished mainly due to snow melting. Tesha is a river flowing in open areas.
Its banks are meadows and fields, where you can occasionally find small birch and oak groves. There are many sandy beaches on the banks of Tesh. Its waters pleasantly cool bathers on a hot summer day. The slow flow and clean surface of the river have contributed to the development of water tourism in these places.
Alatyr River
- GPS coordinates: 816953, 44.611688.
The left tributary of the Sura flows through the territory of three regions of Russia - the Nizhny Novgorod region, Mordovia and Chuvashia. The merger with Sura takes place near a city that bears the same name as the river. The length of the water flow is 307 km, and the basin area is about 11 thousand km2.
The river is mainly fed by snow, but there are also several tributaries. The largest of them are Rudnya and Insar. Alatyr is a floatable river. It freezes in November-December, and by the end of April its waters are almost completely free of ice cover.
Kerzhenets River
- Coordinates: 724899, 44.625384.
Probably the most famous of all the small rivers in the Nizhny Novgorod region. It became famous for the fact that schismatics hid from their pursuers in its vicinity. The Old Believers who lived in dense forests on the banks of this small river (its length is only about 300 km) began to be called Kerzhaks.
Now Kerzhenets attracts tourists not so much with its history as with its pristine nature. Its channel is winding, with numerous pools and quiet backwaters. Due to the shallowness and topography of the surrounding area, the river is not navigable. Its depth is generally up to 1 m, but in whirlpools it can reach 7-8 m.
Kerzhenets swells greatly during floods. Flood rises of water are also common here. Previously, the river was raftable. A lot of driftwood constantly appeared here, creating frequent traffic jams. The rafting has now been stopped and the riverbed is being cleared.
The Kerzhensky Nature Reserve was created in the middle reaches of the river. The real taiga forest is home to many wild animals, including brown bear, lynx and ermine, and there is fish in the river. Between the trees approaching the water, golden stripes of sandy beaches can be seen.
Vetluga River
- Coordinates: 880317, 45.912230.
It is thanks to water streams such as Vetluga that water tourism is developing in the Nizhny Novgorod region. This river is suitable for everyone, even those without special training. The upper reaches of the Vetluga, especially at the confluence with the Matyug River, are chosen by real extreme sports enthusiasts.
In the area of the village of Kruglyzhi, in the Kirov region, there are places where many kayak routes begin. Residents of the Nizhny Novgorod region and guests of the region enjoy rafting down the river, admiring the beautiful nature. Here you can swim, fish, sunbathe on the coastal sandy beaches.
When going on a trip along the river, you should not be afraid of getting wet - in the forests located on the banks of the reservoir, you can easily find firewood for a fire. In the fight against the “little bloodsuckers,” the sandy banks of the river and shallows, well blown by the wind, where you can camp, will help.
Linda River
- Coordinates: 598557, 44.119596.
This tributary of the Volga originates 3.5 km from the village of Trefelikha. Here is the source of the small (only 122 km) Linda River, which flows into the country’s largest water artery.
Although the river is not striking in its size - its average depth is about 1.5 m, and its width rarely exceeds 12 meters, previously timber rafting was carried out along the Linda. The bottom is sandy and muddy in places. The banks of the river are steep and steep. Linda is suitable for kayaking and other outdoor activities.
These places celebrate the opening of the tourist season (in May), as well as its official closing (in September).
Serezha River
- Coordinates: 669219, 43.452265.
The small river (its length is 185 km) is a tributary of the Tesha. Its bed is mostly sandy. It has a fairly fast flow. The high banks of the reservoir are covered with forests, although there are also meadow areas. The middle part of the river is a system of Pustyn lakes of karst origin. In these places, Seryozha forms real water labyrinths.
The river passes through places where there are no large settlements or industries. The ecology in this region is in complete order. Serezha is a calm forest water stream. Pine forests growing on the shores of the reservoir alternate with sandy beaches. There is good fishing here (the river waters are clean), an abundance of berries and mushrooms.
Piana River
- Coordinates: 248991, 45.115406.
One of the longest small rivers in the Nizhny Novgorod region. Its length is 436 km, it practically does not extend beyond the region. Only a small part of its channel is located on the territory of Mordovia.
Piana is very tortuous (the distance from the source to the mouth of the water artery in a straight line is only 65 km). The width varies - from 10 m in the upper reaches of the river to 90 m or more in the lower reaches. The average depth is from 2 to 4 meters, in some places from the surface to the bottom 6-7 m.
The speed of the river flow is small; it increases only at some riffles. The banks rise 5-7 m above the water surface. In some places they are steep and steep. The river is navigable in its lower reaches. It is suitable for water tourism.
Luch River
- Coordinates: 449581, 42.679763.
The Lukh River carries its waters through the territory of three regions at once - Nizhny Novgorod, Vladimir and Ivanovo. Its banks, flowing into the Klyazma, are numerous sandy beaches surrounded by coniferous and deciduous forests.
Kayaking on the Lukh River is an excellent option for family tourism. Good fishing, an abundance of wild berries, mushroom picking - all this only enhances the impression of a walk along the river.
On the river banks is located one of the oldest monasteries - Frolishcheva Monasteries. An excursion to these places allows you not only to have a good rest in nature, but also to touch the shrines of the Orthodox branch of Christianity.
You may be interested in: Where to go in Nizhny Novgorod with a child
Sights of the Nizhny Novgorod region
Sights of the Nizhny Novgorod region. The most important and interesting sights of the Nizhny Novgorod region - photos and videos, descriptions and reviews, location, websites.
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- Nizhny Novgorod, per. Melnichny, 8
the very bestAnnunciation Monastery in Nizhny Novgorod
Nizhny Novgorod, per. Melnichny, 8
Those who decide to take a tourist trip to Nizhny Novgorod will have a hard time: after all, the city is simply replete with attractions. Ancient streets, embankments, churches, landscaped parks - and every place is worth a visit.
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Nizhny Novgorod, st. Bolshaya Pokrovskaya
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Bolshaya Pokrovskaya street
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Nizhny Novgorod, st. Bolshaya Pokrovskaya
Bolshaya Pokrovskaya is the main street of Nizhny Novgorod; it connects Minin and Pozharsky Square with Lyadov Square. Bolshaya Pokrovskaya became the main street in the city at the end of the 18th century; before the revolution, the street was considered a noble street; mere mortals had nothing to do here.
- Nizhny Novgorod region, Semenov, st. Chkalova, 20
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Museum and tourist center in Semenov
Nizhny Novgorod region, Semenov, st. Chkalova, 20
Khokhloma is a well-known old Russian folk craft that originated in the Trans-Volga forests of the Nizhny Novgorod region, around the village of Khokhloma, and dates back to the 18th century. The golden ornaments of the painting contained all the beauty of the Russian land.
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Nizhny Novgorod, Kazanskaya embankment, 8a
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Nizhny Novgorod cable car
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Nizhny Novgorod, Kazanskaya embankment, 8a
What an inquisitive tourist won’t find in Nizhny Novgorod: ancient streets, the Oka and Volga spit, churches, parks, gardens, attractions and cozy cafes. But there is one thing in this city that you will not find even in Greece, where, as you know, “everything is there.”
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Nizhny Novgorod, pl. Minin and Pozharsky
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Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin
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Nizhny Novgorod, pl. Minin and Pozharsky
The Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin is the main attraction of the city. It began to be built at the beginning of the 16th century, and as a result it turned out to be an entire city, which was supposed to protect from Tatar raids. The two-kilometer Kremlin wall was fortified with 13 towers - only twelve remained.
- Nizhny Novgorod, pl. Svobody, 2a
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Nizhny Novgorod prison
Nizhny Novgorod, pl. Svobody, 2a
The Nizhny Novgorod prison, that is, the city prison, was built from 1820 to 1824. The main building was given the appearance of a medieval fortress with round corner towers, where (as in many historical fortresses) mainly political prisoners were kept towards the end of the period of use.
- Nizhny Novgorod, st. Privolzhskaya, 108
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Pechersky Monastery
Nizhny Novgorod, st. Privolzhskaya, 108
They say that in order to feel the spirit of Nizhny Novgorod, you need to visit the Pechersky Monastery. It was founded back in 1328, however, then the building was completely destroyed due to a landslide. The main shrine - the icon of the Mother of God of Pechersk - was saved.
- Nizhny Novgorod, st. Rozhdestvenskaya
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Rozhdestvenskaya street in Nizhny Novgorod
Nizhny Novgorod, st. Rozhdestvenskaya
The main decoration of the street is the Church of the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is usually called Rozhdestvenskaya or Stroganovskaya. This is an absolutely amazing monument to a special, purely Russian, variety of Baroque - the Stroganov style.
- Diveyevo district, village. Diveevo
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Holy Groove
Diveyevo district, village. Diveevo
One of the main shrines of the Seraphim-Diveevo Monastery in Diveevo and an important attribute of veneration of the monastery as “the fourth and last (after Iberia, Athos and Kyiv) inheritance of the Mother of God on Earth” is the Holy Canal of the Most Holy Theotokos.
- Diveyevo district, village. Diveevo
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Holy Trinity Cathedral Diveevo
Diveyevo district, village. Diveevo
Many miracles are associated with the Seraphim-Diveevo Monastery, but still its main attraction is the majestic Holy Trinity Cathedral, the main cathedral of the community, which houses the ark with the relics of the Sarov elders, including Seraphim of Sarov.
- Arzamas, Archive town, 2
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Spaso-Preobrazhensky Cathedral of Arzamas
Arzamas, Archive town, 2
The Transfiguration Cathedral is the main temple of the monastery of the same name in Arzamas. Built in the first half of the 17th century, it is considered the oldest stone structure in the city. In the 20th century, the building was used by the state archive of the Nizhny Novgorod region.
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Nizhny Novgorod, Verkhnevolzhskaya embankment, 7
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Rukavishnikov Estate
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Nizhny Novgorod, Verkhnevolzhskaya embankment, 7
In the mid-19th century, the Rukavishnikov estate fell to a large moneylender and steel mill owner, Mikhail Rukavishnikov, for debt. His son Sergei decided to turn it into the richest and most beautiful house in Nizhny Novgorod and remodeled the estate in the style of an Italian palazzo.
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Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhnevolzhskaya embankment, 1
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Chkalov staircase
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Nizhny Novgorod, Nizhnevolzhskaya embankment, 1
The Chkalov Stairs, a monumental structure, is a huge staircase in the ancient Russian city of Nizhny Novgorod. The giant staircase was laid in 1943, after the victory of Soviet troops at Stalingrad.
- Nizhny Novgorod, Georgievsky Congress, 3
Alexander Garden in Nizhny Novgorod
Nizhny Novgorod, Georgievsky Congress, 3
On the banks of the great Volga, between the Upper and Lower embankments, lies the beautiful Alexander Garden. Once upon a time, here, on the Dyatlovy Mountains, there were unsightly huts and sheds that spoiled the view of the city from the river. - Arzamas, st. Stationnaya, 3
Arzamas I
Arzamas, st.
Stationnaya, 3 Arzamas I station is located on the northwestern outskirts of the city, where on one side of the railway there is an industrial zone and the Tesha River flows, and on the other there are houses of residents. It connects St. Petersburg, Moscow, the northwestern and central regions of Russia with the southern Volga region and the Urals. - Arzamas, st. Red Path, 44
Arzamas II
Arzamas, st.
Krasny Put, 44 Arzamas is located at the intersection of railway lines, so the small provincial town has two stations - Arzamas I and Arzamas II. The latter is considered the main one and serves the direction “west - east”, this is Moscow - Nizhny Novgorod - Kazan and beyond. - Nizhny Novgorod, pl. Markina
Attraction "Electric Vitamins"
Nizhny Novgorod, pl.
Markina In the middle of the square opposite the River Station in Nizhny Novgorod there is a bridge with a strange design. A roof with triangular pediments with the inscription “Electric Vitamins” is erected on 4 columns. Above it is a red arrow and a scale in milliamps, and there are metal belts on two columns. - Arzamas, pl. Sergius Starogorodsky, 1
Annunciation Church in Arzamas
Arzamas, pl.
Sergius of Starogorodsky, 1 The Annunciation Church stands in the historical center of Arzamas in the picturesque surroundings of a dozen other churches, whose domes rise colorfully above small houses. It is the tallest, its bell tower soars up 30 m. - Nizhny Novgorod region, p. Bornukovo
Bornukovskaya Cave
Nizhny Novgorod region, p.
Bornukovo The village of Bornukovo on the banks of the Piana River, so named for its whimsically curving riverbed, has long been famous for its stone-cutters. The surrounding rich deposits of soft limestone provided them with an abundance of beautiful materials, for example, pink and blue alabaster or crystalline gypsum. - Bor, st. International, 1
Bor Local History Museum
Bor, st.
Internationalnaya, 1 Bor is known to most tourists only because the famous cable car across the Volga leads there. Having left the trailer, most passengers immediately go back. But those who come here by ferry are sure to pay attention to the large and beautiful mansion at the entrance to the city. - 1
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The Nizhny Novgorod region is a marvelous region of Russia among dense taiga forests and majestic river latitudes, formed in January 1929. In 1932, the Nizhny Novgorod region was renamed Gorky.
After many years and all sorts of transformations, the Gorky region was again renamed Nizhny Novgorod in 1990. The region, generously endowed by nature, also has numerous cultural and historical attractions. The Nizhny Novgorod region is ready to provide its guests with wonderful remarkable places that nourish energy and give wonderful, unique emotions and impressions, such as the Ichalkovsky reserve with its mysterious failures, funnels, grottoes, rocks and gutters, the Kerzhensky reserve with the singing of birds and the murmur of streams, the fabulous beauty of the lake — Vadskoe and Svetloyar. According to legend, in the 14th century the city of Kitezh sank into the waters of Svetloyar.
In the Nizhny Novgorod village of Bolshoye Boldino there is a family estate of the Pushkin family - a place that inspired Alexander Sergeevich to create about fifty of his masterpieces.
In the Nizhny Novgorod region, with its ancient past, there is a lot of evidence of important milestones in Russian history, starting with fortifications (Iron Age) in the area of the city of Balakhna and ending with ancient villages and cities with architectural masterpieces. The main decoration of the region, of course, was the Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin, located in the administrative center of the region.
The harsh medieval walls harmoniously combine with elegant classical buildings of the 19th century to create a charming Kremlin ensemble.
In addition to the Kremlin, Nizhny Novgorod also houses such attractions as the Old Fair Cathedral, the Stroganov Church and others.
Spiritual shrines and memorial places, of which there are a considerable number, are generally a distinctive feature of the Nizhny Novgorod region.
This is also the Diveyevo women’s monastery, recognized as the fourth “earthly Destiny of the Most Holy Mother of God,” whose patron is the holy wonderworker Seraphim of Sarov. His relics are kept in the monastery Trinity Cathedral. This includes the Makariev Monastery (Zheltovodsk), founded by the Venerable Wonderworker Macarius in the 15th century, and many others.
Every literate person in Russia, especially admirers of the talent of the great Russian poet A.S. Pushkin, knows that in the Nizhny Novgorod village of Bolshoye Boldino there is a family estate of the Pushkin family - a place that inspired Alexander Sergeevich to create about fifty of his masterpieces. The village of Podvyazye is famous for the location of the Priklonsky-Rukavishnikov estate with a romantic old linden alley.
In Balakhna you can get acquainted with the homeland of the organizer of the 1612 militia Kuzma Minin, the ancient Balakhna churches, in Chkalovsk - with the homeland of Valery Chkalov, the famous Russian aviator. In the village of Yurino there is a magnificent example of wooden architecture - an 18th century church in honor of the Kazan Icon of the Mother of God.
In the craft house of the city of tanners and potters Bogorodsk, you can see how ceramic products are created on a potter's wheel, and in Pavlovo you can see metal forging in a demonstration forge.
In the city of Lyskovo you can look into the former possession of the Gruzinsky princes.
The region is famous for its folk arts and crafts. This is the birthplace of Khokhloma painting and Chkalov guipure, the fame of which extends far beyond the borders of Russia. The city of Gorodets is an ancient Russian settlement in the Middle Volga, founded in the second half of the 12th century. Gorodets museums are dedicated specifically to craftsmanship and handicrafts, history and life of the peoples of the Volga region.
Travelers to Nizhny Novgorod, Pavlovo, Gorodets, Svetloyar, Balakhna, Bogorodsk, Chkalovsk, Boldino, Arzamas, Diveevo, Kazakovo, Pavlovo, Makaryev and other pearls of the Nizhny Novgorod region completely forget about the modern rhythm of life, everyday bustle and enjoy plunging into the measured leisurely local reality.
Beautiful Nizhny Novgorod lakes: TOP-8
Another type of water resource in the Nizhny Novgorod region is lakes. Of course, there are not as many such natural objects as rivers, but among them there are examples of interest to tourists and travelers.
Lake Bolshoy Kultey
- Coordinates: 411565, 45.738944.
This reservoir is a natural monument under state protection. Several species of very rare sphagnum mosses grow in its vicinity.
The water pool is located in a funnel-shaped basin and has high, sometimes steep, banks. The lake is surrounded by mixed forest, although the water surface is mostly open. The bottom is covered with a large layer of silt. The average depth is about 3 m. The view of the island is especially beautiful. Bolshoi Kultey from its eastern shore - there is also an excellent place for a tourist stop.
Nearby is the “Kulteysky Spring”, consecrated for the two thousandth anniversary of Christianity. The most convenient sandy access to the waters of the lake is located near the spring.
Lake Svetloyar
- Coordinates: 818784, 45.093056.
A huge number of legends and traditions are associated with this reservoir. The waters of Svetloyar are considered holy, giving healing to all who suffer. They say that it was in these places that the Virgin Mary herself left her mark.
Indeed, many events are associated with the lake that cannot be scientifically explained. Legend claims that it was its waters that swallowed up the ancient city of Kitezh, famous for its wealth.
The flow of pilgrims and people who believe in miracles to the lake does not decrease. It is interesting that every year some events take place here that further strengthen faith in the Mother of God, who took these places under her protection.
Lake Bolshoye Plotovo
- Coordinates: 459144, 45.603308.
It is located almost in the center of the Raft Swamp. You can go through the latter when you reach the shoreline of the reservoir. The area got its name due to the fact that local residents here moved not on traditional boats, but on rafts.
The Big Plotskoye Lake itself has quite impressive dimensions - length is 2.2 km, and width is about 1.6 km. Three kilometers from it there is about. Maloe Plotovo. The closest and most convenient approaches to Bolshaya Plotovo are from the south.
Lake Maloye Plotovo
- Coordinates: 422077, 45.568884.
As befits a “younger” brother, this reservoir is smaller in size. It covers an area of about 50 hectares. Researchers believe that in some places the depth of the water basin reaches 18 m. The lake is also surrounded by swamps and there is no free access to it.
The reservoir has had a bad reputation since ancient times. There is a legend about a certain island that appears and disappears in the center of the lake. It draws in people who find themselves on this piece of land. It is believed that this is the abode of swamp evil spirits.
Since 1976, Maloe Plotovo has become a natural monument, and its few guests are fishermen who come here to catch tench and pike.
Lake Bolshoye Polyushkino
- Coordinates: 249827, 45.446237.
This reservoir is also located among swamps. Not far from it there are two more lakes - Malye Yazy and Maloe Polyushkino.
The largest of the water basins is not very impressive in size - only 700 by 400 m. Bolshoye Polyushkino has the shape of an irregular oval, surrounded by marshy banks.
Those who like to fish in this reservoir have their own forum. According to the information provided by the portal, you can find out that the average depth of Bolshoy Polyushkino is 3-4 m. Perch bites especially well here, and black grouse are found in the surrounding forests.
Lake Svetloe
- Coordinates: 535646, 45.477041.
A fairly large body of water, about 1 km in diameter. The water in it is clean, but the bottom is muddy. There are practically no deep-water areas here - only from 1 to 3 m. The shores are surrounded by moss rafts. In these places you can harvest a good crop of cranberries.
The southern side of the lake is most convenient for excursions. There is a place where you can camp, there are approaches to the water and places for swimming.
In the northern part there are several islands formed by rafting. In these small areas of land, mainly pine and birch grow. Near the southern border is the Udel swamp, where one of the tributaries of the Linda, the Visets River, originates.
Black Lake
- Coordinates: 592144, 45.576772.
A large and beautiful reservoir surrounded by swamps. Perhaps because of this, the impression of some kind of gloom is created, which is reflected in the name of this landmark of the Nizhny Novgorod region.
The shape of the lake is a clearly visible figure eight, where the northern part is larger than the southern mirror. The eastern shore has convenient access to the water and parking space. The opposite bank is adjacent to the Kerzhensky Nature Reserve.
On the swampy shores of the Black Lake you can find rafts where cranberries grow. Once upon a time, logging work was carried out in these places. To organize the removal of the tree, a narrow-gauge railway was built from the south.
Lake Ryzhan
- Coordinates: 342231, 45.819685.
An interesting and quite large body of water. The shape of the lake is unusual - it is an irregular rhombus, reminiscent of the tip of a spear. The water basin stretches from north to south, and there are many good approaches to it.
The lake at its widest part reaches almost 900 m, and the distance from the southern point to the northern is about 2.8 km.
The beauty of the local landscapes is added by the pine and birch forests surrounding the lake. The southern shores of the water basin are high - there is a road going around the reservoir. In the northern part the coast is a little swampy.
The northeastern coast of the reservoir has convenient tourist parking and access to the water. On the west coast, in the central part, there is the only sandy beach suitable for swimming.
Nizhny Novgorod region: famous springs and springs
The Nizhny Novgorod region has various water bodies on its territory. One of these are underground springs and springs. Many springs have water that is considered holy and healing. There are many places in the region associated with the spread of Orthodoxy in Rus'. And almost every place significant for believers has a holy spring, which has its own healing power and history.
Maryevsky spring
- Coordinates on the map: 461008, 43.638936.
Since ancient times, this source was called Shumleysky. Most likely, the spring got its name because of the noise it makes. Now the name “Marevsky” is used - after the village of Maryevka, located nearby.
Tradition says that Seraphim of Sarov once visited here and predicted miraculous healings with the waters of the spring. Nowadays, both local residents and numerous travelers coming from afar come for healing water from the spring.
The spring is rich in silver ions, its water has antibacterial properties. There is a chapel, a bathhouse, and a place where you can collect water from the holy spring. It is especially crowded here on the feast of the Epiphany.
Spring of Our Lady of Vladimir
- Address: Bortsovo village, Dalnekonstantinovsky district.
Getting to the source is easy. The bus route heading towards Arzamas will take travelers to the village of Bortsovo, where the holy spring of Our Lady of Vladimir is located.
Finding the underground key itself is quite easy. A dirt road passing through the settlement will lead to the spring. Coming out to the ravine, which is located to the left of the path, you should go around it. At the cross the descent to the bottom of the depression begins. There is a holy spring flowing there.
There is also a chapel near the spring, and it also has its own bathhouse. The path leading down is quite steep. You need to go down it carefully to avoid unnecessary injuries.
Spring Kibelek
- Address: Vladimirskoye village, Voskresensky district.
The spring gushing out of the ground near Lake Svetloyar is considered holy. The bridges laid from it will lead to a path that ends at the grave of three saints. According to legend, a battle between the squad of the city of Kitezh and the Tatar army took place here. Here, in an unequal duel, three Russian heroes died defending their native land.
In memory of the brave warriors, three crosses were erected, next to which there is a well. The water in it is also considered holy and healing, as evidenced by reviews online. Nearby, in a clearing in the forest, are the graves of heroes. Believers take holy soil from the burial site. It is also believed to help heal illnesses.
Spring Prince Vladimirsky
- Address: Sartakovo village, Bogorodsky district.
Bogorodsky district, Sartakovo village - this is where the holy spring is located. The spring itself is located in a chapel built above it. There are men's and women's baths here. The territory of the attraction is well-groomed and is a miniature ethnographic museum.
Next to the holy spring there is the Berezopole Museum. It is located in a beautiful wooden mansion. On the hill, above the source, stands the Church of Prince Vladimir, where services are held. The water of the Vladimir Holy Spring contains a lot of lime. It is not advisable to boil it.
Nikola key
- Address: Beloglazovo village, Gorodetsky district.
Legends popular in these places tell that a miracle once happened here - the appearance of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker. The waters of the springs, flowing together, form a kind of cross. It is believed that this speaks of the special holiness of these places and springs.
On the territory of the chapel where the spring is located, there are two indoor baths. The spring waters contain silver ions and are considered healing.
Nikola Klyuch is located near the village of Beloglazovo. From the parking lot located next to the settlement, it is about 200 meters to the source. There is no car access to the spring. It can only be reached on foot.
Baranov key
- Address: Kozlovka village, Kstovsky district.
This source has been known since ancient times - the route to the Makaryevskaya Fair passed next to it. However, its holy waters became known in Rus' only at the beginning of the 19th century.
It is in the chronicles of that time that one merchant named Baranov suddenly became blind. In a dream, the Mother of God appeared to him and ordered him, after praying, to wash himself with water from a local spring. Having done everything as the Mother of God said, the merchant received his sight.
Since that time, there have always been many pilgrims at the source. At his own expense, the merchant built a chapel here. The place was named after the merchant who had regained his sight. Now there is a stone chapel and a washroom.
Holy springs of the 12 apostles
- Address: Vad village, Vad district.
They come out of the ground in the village of Vad, located in a small and shallow ravine. Nearby there is a well-equipped and well-maintained bathhouse. Tradition says that these underground springs were discovered by Saint Seraphim of Sarov. This happened when he was going to the Zelenogorsk convent.
It's not difficult to get here. From Nizhny Novgorod you should get to the village of Vad. Then a local bus will take travelers to the “Holy Springs” stop. All that remains is to reach the red brick gate and go down into the ravine to the springs.
Cities and villages
Nizhny Novgorod
The city was founded in 1211 and was intended for defense. After some time, the largest fair in Rus' was formed here. The city maintained independence from the capital and invaders and developed rapidly.
Now, thanks to a large number of monuments, Nizhny Novgorod is included in the list of the best cities in the world according to UNESCO.
Actor Evgeny Evstigneev, inventor Ivan Kulibin, author of the “dead loop” pilot Pyotr Nesterov, militia leader Kuzma Minin, writer Maxim Gorky, test pilot Valery Chkalov, children’s writer Arkady Gaidar and many others were born here.
- Nizhny Novgorod Kremlin. Construction of the fortress began in the 16th century to defend against Mongol-Tatar raids. Previously, there were 13 towers on the wall, now only 12 remain. According to legend, the library of Ivan the Terrible is hidden under the building. Nowadays there are excursions in the Kremlin; in the warm season you can walk along the wall.
- Michael the Archangel Cathedral. Although the temple is considered the oldest in the city, this rather refers to the place where it is located. The original building was destroyed several times, and in 1662 a stone cathedral was built. Previously, princes were buried here; their graves are still located on the territory. At the beginning of the 20th century, the ashes of Kuzma Minin were transferred. During the week after Easter, everyone is allowed to visit the bell tower and ring the bell.
- Nizhny Novgorod State Art Museum. It was founded in 1896. Among the exhibits are paintings and sculptures by Anton Bogolyubov, Mikhail Botkin, Konstantin, Nicholas Roerich, Ivan Repin.
- Pechersky Monastery. The temple was founded in 1328. In this monastery, Archimandrite Theodosius persuaded Dmitry Pozharsky to begin gathering troops to confront the Tatars. The main shrine of this place is the icon of the Mother of God of Pechersk.
More interesting things about Nizhny Novgorod and its attractions.
Gorodets
The city was founded in 1172 and was destroyed several times by the Mongol yoke. A special type of painting called Gorodets was invented here. Gorodets became the place of death of Alexander Nevsky. Today it is the most ancient settlement in the Novgorod region. He became famous for his crafts (carving, gold thread embroidery and baking).
- Museum of Local Lore. The collection contains historical documents, some dating back to the 14th - 16th centuries, folk crafts, and handicrafts.
- Samovar Museum. Located in a 19th century house that previously belonged to the merchant Grishaev. More than 500 items for tea drinking are collected here.
- Feodorovsky Monastery. According to legend, Prince Yuri Dolgoruky ordered it to be founded back in 1223, but the Tatars burned it down. After the restoration, Alexander Nevsky took monastic vows here.
- City of masters. The complex demonstrates changes in local architecture from the 16th to the 19th centuries. There is a museum here with samples of gold embroidery, pottery and Gorodets painting. Handicraft workshops are also held on site.
A detailed guide to the most interesting places in Gorodets.
Diveevo
The village was founded in 1559; the route to the Sarov monastery passed through it. It was founded by Seraphim of Sarov, a holy healer. In 1767, construction of the Church of the Kazan Mother of God began in the village. It is believed to be one of the four appanages visited by Our Lady.
In 1927, Diveevo was closed as a monastery complex, and the nuns were forced to leave. The place opened to the public only in 1981. In 2003, all churches began to be actively restored in honor of the centenary of the glorification of St. Seraphim of Sarov.
- Holy Trinity Cathedral Diveevo. It is the main cathedral of the monastery community. The relics of Seraphim of Sarov and other elders from the desert are kept here. According to legend, the Mother of God showed this place to Elder Seraphim in a vision. Initially, the temple was built as a summer temple to welcome everyone during the warm season. The inside of the cathedral is decorated with painted canvases; there is nothing like this in any Russian church. One of the shrines of this place is the icon of the Mother of God “Tenderness”, in front of which Seraphim prayed all his life.
- Holy Canal. Religious documents say that in 1825, Elder Seraphim saw the Mother of God indicating the construction of the Mill Community and surrounding it with a special ditch. The sisters of the future community dug along the path along which the Mother of God walked. The saint said that the groove would protect from the Antichrist in difficult times. It is believed that if you walk along it and pray to the Mother of God 150 times, she will definitely hear you.
- Source of St. Seraphim of Sarov. The holy place is located near the Satis River. Several dozen cases of miraculous healing at this source have been recorded. According to legend, in 1960, soldiers saw an old man in white. When the servants tried to speak to him, he struck the ground three times with his staff and disappeared. After some time, three keys appeared here. They tried to fall asleep several times, but the equipment kept breaking down, and this idea was abandoned.
- Iversky spring. It was dug by the Monk Alexandra in 1774 so that the workers could drink clean water. Workers quarried stones near this place for the construction of the Kazan Church. The stream got its name from the Iveron Icon, which was transported to the built church.
Interesting and useful facts about Diveevo temples.
Arzamas
The history of the city begins in 1552, when Ivan the Terrible ordered the construction of a fortress during his third attempt to conquer Kazan.
The writer Arkady Gaidar, the exiled Maxim Gorky, and academician Alexey Stupinin, who organized a painting school, lived here. While passing through the city, the writer Leo Tolstoy and Empress Catherine the Great visited.
- Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. It was founded in honor of the victory over Napoleon in 1812. In all its time it has never been subjected to destruction or reconstruction. The miraculous icon of Nicholas of Mozhaisk and the Life-giving Cross of the Lord are kept here, as well as the icon of the Resurrection of Christ, painted in the 16th century.
- City History and Art Museum. In 1956, a local history museum was placed in the building of the Elias Church (now an architectural monument). Later, the exhibition dedicated to nature was removed, and the donated collection of paintings helped the museum gain the status of an art museum. Here are the decorations, weapons and tools of the Mordovian tribes who lived in these areas in the 1st millennium AD. Some of the exhibitions tell about the history of the city's development; there are collections of porcelain and religious objects.
- Literary and Memorial Museum of Arkady Gaidar. Located in the house where the writer’s family used to live. In addition to household items and personal belongings of the writer, the original manuscripts of Pavel Bazhov and Maxim Gorky are kept here.
- Church in honor of the icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Life-Giving Spring”. The temple was built in 1794. The main shrines are the icons “Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin Mary” and “Life-Giving Spring”. In warm weather, you are allowed to climb the bell tower, from where you can see the entire city.
Everything a tourist needs to know about Arzamas.
Dzerzhinsk
The city was founded in 1606 and was originally the village of Rastyapino. It began to grow after the construction of the railway in 1862. In the 30s of the 20th century, when a plant for processing mineral acids was founded, Dzerzhinsk acquired the status of a city. Now it is the largest industrial center in the Novosibirsk region.
- Museum of Local Lore. 9 exhibition halls tell about the history of the city, the events of the Great Patriotic War, there are departments dedicated to the nature of the region and the life of local residents in the 17-19 centuries.
- Church ensemble on Svyato-Tikhonovsky Proezd. The complex is still being completed, but the wooden Resurrection Parish and the Church of John the Baptist have already been consecrated.
- House with a spire. It was built in 1955 according to the design of Alexander Kusakin. Currently under reconstruction.
Bogorodsk
The city was founded by 300 residents of the Nizhny Novgorod freemen, who, by order of Ivan the Terrible, were evicted from their places of residence. The name of the settlement is derived from the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
- Historical Museum. The collection contains examples of pottery and leather production from the founding of Bogorodsk, old photographs and documents about the history of the city.
- Chapel of St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Prince Vladimir. There is a spring nearby that is considered healing.
- Red Square. The first one built in the city, next to it are the houses of the merchants Golovastikovs, Obzhorins and Losevs.
Sarov
Nuclear physicists have settled in the Russian science city since 1946. The best Soviet scientists worked in the city: Igor Kurchatov, Andrei Sakharov, Alexey Bessarabenko. Sarov's secrecy was lifted after the collapse of the USSR, but the city still remains closed. You can get here only by invitation of relatives living in the city or local employers.
Sarov has a rather unusual atmosphere: here, without contradicting each other, science and faith are combined. And city scientists even consider Seraphim of Sarov their patron.
Religion appeared in the village much earlier than science. In the 17th century, a monastery was erected near the Sarov Desert, around which residential buildings were gradually built. Almost until the middle of the 20th century, the city remained the religious center of the country - pilgrims came from all over Russia to venerate the relics of Seraphim of Sarov.
The first design bureau was built after the war right on the site of the destroyed monastery. Sarov was so classified that it was not even on the maps of the country. Since the 1990s, churches in the city began to be restored, and in 2006 the Church of Seraphim of Sarov opened.
Sights of Sarov:
- Museum of Nuclear Weapons with a model of a nuclear bomb;
- Monastery Square, where most of the city’s churches are located;
- Museum of History and Local Lore with 40 permanent exhibitions;
- Natural monuments: monastery ponds; silver keys; The distant desert where Seraphim of Sarov lived;
- Administrative building of the nuclear center 1911
What else is interesting in Sarov, why would it be worth trying to get here?
Forest resources of the Nizhny Novgorod region
Thanks to the availability of water resources, more than half of the Nizhny Novgorod region is occupied by various forests. There are mighty pine forests, oak forests, and numerous groves here. Most forest areas are located in the northern part of the region, where forest cover reaches 80% of the total area.
Ichalkovsky pine forest
- Coordinates: 435892, 44.542074.
This forest area is part of the state reserve of the same name. There are several hypotheses about the origin of relict boron. First, this forest was formed in the pre-glacial period. The second hypothesis says that boron arose somewhat later - during the Valdai glaciation.
Northern and mountain tree species have been preserved in this area due to its geological structure. There are many active sinkholes of karst origin, with high humidity and a high content of calcareous rocks enriched with dolomite. All this is the result of the centuries-old “work” of the Piana River
Ichalkovsky Forest is a unique place where centuries-old trees coexist with representatives of the “underworld” - caves, sinkholes, and numerous underground passages. There are more than 1000 different geological “surprises” here. And some of the failures are quite impressive in size.
Koposovskaya oak grove
- Coordinates: 376620, 43.844658.
The forest area is located in the Volga floodplain. It is interesting because it consists almost entirely of oak trees reaching a height of 25 m. The age of the trees is also approximately the same - they are from 250 to 300 years old. Dubrava is a natural monument, located near a village bearing the same name.
A unique corner of nature – the kingdom of birds. There are nightingales, chaffinches, and field thrushes here; Birds that need protection from extinction also live in these places.
Koposovskaya oak grove is also a famous historical place, as the past tells us. Before the October Revolution, rallies and May Day meetings were held in the forest, and during the Patriotic War, tanks produced at Krasnoye Sormovo and waiting to be sent to the front were hidden here.
Sergach Arboretum "Yavleika"
- Coordinates: 541374, 45.471114.
Another natural monument of the Nizhny Novgorod region. The uniqueness of the local landscapes is that representatives of flora from all over Russia grow here. The complex is located on picturesque hills. In the depths of the ravines interspersed with hills, a small stream, Yavleika, runs. He gave the name to the arboretum.
The history of the array began in 1979, when it was decided to test the survival of a wide variety of tree species in local conditions. For the fortieth anniversary of the Victory, a park was built here. A year later, the arboretum was combined with the park, creating a unique natural site. Now, on 90 hectares of the arboretum, more than 200 species of plants from all over the world grow.
Reserved grove Luchinnik
- Coordinates: 978886, 45.321210.
The forest area is located near the village of Bolshoye Boldino. There is a legend about the origin of the name of the local grove.
Once upon a time, a peasant who was caught stealing his owner’s wood said that he did this because he did not have enough money to buy a torch to illuminate his hut. A.S. Pushkin, the owner of the estate, who was present at the same time, canceled the due punishment, saying: “Wait to chop, the forest will grow - everyone will be a good archer.” Since then this place has been called that.
The picturesque grove is surrounded by numerous glades and meadows. From the edge, a path running down leads to a spring. Old-timers say that the source was here back in the time of the great poet.
In the grove, where mainly oaks, maples and ash trees grow, there is a clearing surrounded by birch trees. It is here, on Pushkin’s birthday (June 6), that a poetry festival is held.
The beauty of the underground kingdom of the region
Probably, in any area where there are hills, there are also many dungeons. Their origin may be different. Here are former mines or underground workings, and karst caves or dungeons that appeared in soft sedimentary rocks. There are similar facilities in the Nizhny Novgorod region.
Balakhonikha Cave
- Coordinates on the map: 438539, 43.341028.
The dungeon is located in the Arzamas region. This is a gypsum cave with hemispherical vaults. In its central part, underground corridors diverge in different directions. They are connected to each other by several galleries.
The interior decoration of the attraction is quite picturesque. Here you can admire the bluish-gray columns. These are all kinds of frozen stalactites and their antipodes - stalagmites.
Stone tract
- Coordinates: 450320, 44.469484.
This natural site is located near the village of Ichalki, near the village of Balakhna. The stone tract is a quarry with many entrances (50 of them). These are small grottoes and caves, almost half filled.
Of the dungeons, the Balakhninskaya Cave is of greatest interest to tourists. It belongs to karst formations. The entire Stone tract is replete with cramped corridors and passages, access to which is very difficult. However, this does not bother the bats. Several species of these animals live here.
Peshelan mines
- Coordinates: 319446, 43.947437.
In these places there is a museum of mining, geology and speleology. In the former mines there is a statue of the owner of the gypsum mountain, there is a collection of minerals, and there is an exhibition of dinosaurs.
Guests will be able to visit a speleologists' camp set up near an underground stream with a waterfall. There is also a room of fear here. And the shungite room, a landmark of the Peshelan mines, has a positive effect on the body of tourists who visit the cave.
Bornukovskaya Cave
- Coordinates: 389849, 44.780784.
It is considered the deepest cave in the Nizhny Novgorod region. It has two vertical entrances, so to get into the dungeon, tourists should have special equipment. The rocks that formed the cave cavity are clay and gypsum. As a result, even in the summer heat there are low temperatures here.
The underground lake and waterfall located here remain frozen all year round. Bornukovskaya Cave is well suited for extreme tourism. It is made of rocks of a reddish hue, which is why it looks bright and attractive.
Natural attractions
Bornukovskaya Cave
Coordinates: 55.389825, 44.780878 Address: s. Bornukovo How to get there: from Nizhny Novgorod along the M-7 highway to the village. Malinovka, further along the highway 22K-M64 to the village. Bornukovo, 2 hours 40 minutes, 150 km, by bus 3 hours 12 minutes.
The caves were formed after the development of quarries for the extraction of alabaster. The total length of all grottoes is 200 meters.
They gained their popularity due to the layer of ice that covers all the caves from the inside all year round.
Visiting caves without an accompanying person and special equipment is dangerous.
Vad lake
Coordinates: 55.539784, 44.191932 How to get there: from Nizhny Novgorod along the P-158 highway to the village. Vad 1 hour 43 minutes, 110 km, by bus 2 hours 17 minutes.
The peculiarity of the reservoir is a stream of cold water gushing from underground. It emerges from an underwater karst cave. The lake does not freeze in winter due to the current.
Previously, there was a diving club here, whose employees helped everyone explore the cave at the bottom, but in 2007 the entrance collapsed. You can dive to the bottom now, but you won’t be able to get into the cave.
You can go fishing on the lake; silver carp, pike and roach are well caught.
Ichalkovsky pine forest
Coordinates: 55.437297, 44.537652 How to get there: from Nizhny Novgorod along the P-158 highway to the village. Kriusha, then turn left and reach the village. Ichalki, 2 hours 8 minutes, 130 km, by bus 2 hours 47 minutes.
The territory of the forest is part of the reserve. There are more than 1000 karst caves of various shapes and depths in the forest. The deepest are the Kuleva and Startsev pits, 25 and 19 meters.
There are legends that local robbers hid treasures in the Kuleva Pit. According to another version, suicides chose this place to die. Researchers found no evidence to support both beliefs.
The forest also contains plants from the Red Book - steppe cherry and relict ferns; rare animals include imperial eagles and ground hares.
Lake Svetloyar, Nizhny Novgorod region
Coordinates: 56°49′07″ 45°05′35″ Address: s. Vladimirskoe How to get there: from Nizhny Novgorod along highway 22R-054 to the village. Vladimirskoye 1 hour 50 minutes, 130 km
The reservoir received its name from the name of the sun god Yarila, who was worshiped by pagans on its banks. Every year on July 6, a religious procession is held here in honor of the Vladimir Icon of the Mother of God, and in the evening Ivan Kupala is celebrated. They say that if you walk around the lake three times that night and make a wish, it will come true.
Old Believers believe that at the bottom of Svetloyar lies the city of Kitezh, saved by God from Batu Khan. According to legend, on moonlit nights you can hear the ringing of bells and the crying of people from the underwater city.
Lake Charskoye
Coordinates:
Address: pos. Mukhtolovo
How to get there: from Nizhny Novgorod along the highway 32K-0125 to the village. Mukhtolovo, 2 hours 17 minutes, 140 km
A feature of the reservoir is periodic shallowing, the reasons for which have not been clarified. During the period of deep water, pike, carp, perch and lenok are caught here.
Kerzhensky Reserve
Address: pos. Rustai Phone: +7 831 431‑30-56, +7 831 431‑31-91 Website: kerzhenskiy.ru Cost: 50 rubles How to get there: from Nizhny Novgorod along the highway 22K-0125 to Rustai village, 1 hour 52 min ., 78 km
The protected area contains forests and swamps.
Lynxes, bears, hares, bats, eagles and hawks live here. The flora is represented by coniferous and deciduous trees, shrubs and berries - cranberries, blueberries and wild raspberries.
Visits to eco-trails are organized for tourists at any time of the year.
