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When In Russia, Drink Like A Local By Sipping Straight From Frozen Lake Baikal

Experience drinking like a local at the world’s deepest lake with this unique Russian hack.

by Siddhi Tendulkar
When In Russia, Drink Like A Local By Sipping Straight From Frozen Lake Baikal

A spontaneous trip to Russia led a travel enthusiast to one of the most unforgettable experiences at Lake Baikal. Not only did she get to play in snow and ice for the first time, but she also discovered a unique way to enjoy drinks—drilling a hole into the frozen lake, pouring in alcohol, and drinking it straight from the ice!

A Spontaneous Russian Adventure

Lake Baikal drinking experience
Picture Credits: Canva Pro

Lake Baikal, the world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake, became the backdrop for an unexpected winter escapade. A traveller and content creator sharing her experience on Instagram, revealed that her unplanned trip to Russia in March turned out to be one of her most cherished memories. What made the adventure even more special was the local tradition of making an ice glass by drilling a hole in the lake, filling it with alcohol, and sipping it right from the ice.

Also Read: Skip Russian Vodka And Try These 8 Amazing Russian Drinks 

Drinking Like A Siberian

While Lake Baikal is renowned for its crystal-clear ice and stunning frozen landscapes, one lesser-known tradition is drinking alcohol straight from the lake. To do this, locals drill a small hole into the thick ice, shaping it into a makeshift glass. Once the hole is made, they pour in a shot of their favourite spirit and drink it directly from the icy surface. For many visitors, this unique drinking ritual becomes a highlight of their trip, blending adventure and local customs in one chilled experience.

The travel enthusiast behind this unique adventure is a content creator, Garima Bakshi. She shared her experience on Instagram via @wanderingwithpaint, showcasing the fun and spontaneity of her trip to Lake Baikal.

Also Read: Russia’s Lake Baikal: Discover One Of The World’s Deepest Lakes, A 25-Million-Year-Old Icy Land

Exploring Lake Baikal Like Locals

Lake Baikal drinking experience
Picture Credits: Canva Pro

During her trip, the traveller enjoyed a guided tour with @baikal.tyr, a local company known for offering fun and immersive experiences. She highly recommends this tour to anyone planning to visit Lake Baikal or nearby areas. The blend of natural beauty, local traditions, and spontaneous fun made the trip an unforgettable one.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro & @wanderingwithpaint / Instagram

First Published: April 03, 2025 12:38 PM