'LENSKIE STOLBY' / LENA PILLARS
The National Nature Park

One of the most attractive sites for tourists.

This unique natural phenomenon huge rocks in the shape of pillars is situated right on the bank of the great Lena River. One can see colonnades, towers, arches, cathedrals and walls in odd shapes here. In the taiga there are desert dunes, called tukulan. In the territory of the park different rare species of flora and fauna can be found. Remains of the mammoth, bison and other animals remind us about the megafauna of prehistoric times.

Numerous petroglyphs, left by ancient inhabitants, can be found here as well as Old Turkish runic writings.

The local landscapes have a mystique for those who enjoy hiking, water trips and fishing.

Lena Pillars Nature Park is up to get into the list of UNESCO world heritage.

Not far from the park there is another unique place Diring Yurekh. Evidence of the oldest human inhabitation was found there which throws down a challenge to the theory about the birthplace of mankind in Africa . A number of implements were found along with human remains.

You can visit Lena Pillars and other wonderful places in unforgettable cruises on the River Lena by comfortable ships. The Lena is one of the 10 greatest rivers of the planet. It carries its water over 4400 from its source in Baikal range to the Arctic Ocean . In the middle Lena the width of the river reaches 15km, the width in the lower course is 20- 25 km and the size of the Lena delta is registered in the Guinness Record Book. The Lena s tributaries, such as the Vitim, Olekma, Aldan and Viluy, exceed the sizes of large European rivers.

For seven months the Lena is covered with one meter thick ice. Spring flood starts in the second half of May.

There are no dams, hydroelectric power stations, reservoirs and so the beautiful river flows along its natural course, like millions of years ago. The river water is still drinkable. Amazing scenery, rich flora and fauna, peculiar cultures of ancient nations can strike the imagination of even very experienced travelers.

Written by Andrey Nogovizyn
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