The Republic of Khakassia in 3 Russian words

1. САЯНО-ШУШЕНСКАЯ ГЭС (Sayano-Shushenskaya Hydroelectric Power Station)

Russia's most powerful hydroelectric power station is located on the Yenisei River on the border with Krasnoyarsk Krai. It supplies electricity not only to Khakassia, but also to parts of neighboring regions. Its 242-meter dam is one of the tallest in the world. The hydroelectric power station is especially beautiful at night, when it’s illuminated.

2. ДОЛИНА ЦАРЕЙ (Valley of the Kings)

Sixty miles from the republic's capital, Abakan, in the Khakassian steppe lies the Valley of the Kings. Fifty-six unique burial mounds dating back to the Tagar culture from the 8th-3rd centuries BC have been discovered there. They are believed to contain the remains of members of the nobility of that time. The most famous is the Great Salbyk Kurgan. At one time, its height reached 30 meters!

3. ТУИМСКИЙ ПРОВАЛ (Tuimsky Sinkhole)

This gigantic sinkhole formed in 1974 after the closure of an underground mine. A lake with bright blue water appeared at the bottom of the depression. This place attracts tourists and extreme sports enthusiasts. However, one must be very careful – the walls of the sinkhole often crumble!