The capital of Kabardino-Balkaria is one of the untrodden, young, fresh cities that have not yet been visited by crowds of tourists. But at the same time, holidays in Nalchik are very attractive for both Russians and foreign travelers. An important role in this is played by many sanatoriums and mud baths, which compete worthy with similar sanatorium-therapeutic establishments in other regions. In addition, the high level of service in hotels, clean beaches and well-designed infrastructure only add advantages to Nalchik’s rating.
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Hotels
One of the representative hotels in Nalchik is the “Crown”, located in picturesque Dolinsk. From here it is close to both the airport and the train station. Also nearby is one of the largest parks in Europe, where you can swim in the lakes, ride a boat and drink a cup of coffee in a cafe or restaurant. As for the hotel rooms, guests are offered from standard to luxury with all the amenities that will make your stay in Nalchik more comfortable.
Among the most recognizable is the Rossiya Hotel. It is considered the largest not only in Nalchik, but throughout Kabardino-Balkaria. Its location is in the very center of the city, where shopping centers, markets, cafes and nightclubs, as well as a musical theater and concert hall are literally within walking distance. The hotel has a tour desk and guarded parking lot. Check-in is possible at any time of the day.
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Economy and industry
The city is known not only for its resorts, but also for its industrial enterprises, which a map of Nalchik with streets will help you find.
There is a large machine-building plant in the city. Its workshops produce equipment for oil refining, as well as equipment for gas and oil production.
A map of Nalchik with houses will help you find food industry enterprises. These include a dairy plant and a halva production workshop. The majority of the population in the city is employed in the trade sector or in budgetary organizations.
Using a map of Nalchik with house numbers, you can easily find all the city's retail outlets: various markets, shopping complexes and shops.
Sanatoriums and holiday homes
If you are planning a vacation in Nalchik, sanatoriums and dispensaries should be considered first. The reason for this is receiving medical procedures and the opportunity to drink mineral water from natural sources. For example, vacationers at the Nalchik sanatorium can receive drinking treatment completely free of charge, which promotes health. This sanatorium has existed since 1973, and was created as a departmental medical institution of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs. Its staff includes distinguished doctors and employees with the highest qualification categories. The activities of this multidisciplinary health resort are based on the use of both traditional methods and the latest developments in the field of medicine.
No less popular in Nalchik is the Narzanov Valley sanatorium. Many people come here not only for good treatment, dietary nutrition and beautiful views. The health resort boasts its own repository of Tambukan mud, and nearby there are 12 mineral springs, including iodine-bromine, nitrogen-thermal, and hydrogen sulfide mineral waters. The territory also houses the famous swimming pool with healing nitrogen-thermal water, which is open all year round.
Convenient location near the Blue Spruce sanatorium (near the airport and train station). He specializes in the treatment of ailments of the musculoskeletal system, the genitourinary system, as well as diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and bronchopulmonary system. The highlight of the sanatorium is the aerosolarium for air and sunbathing, specially equipped on the roof of the dormitory building.
If travelers cannot afford sanatoriums, then they can choose good holiday homes in Nalchik. They differ in that there will not be such complete recovery as in the health resorts described above, but excellent food and all basic services are provided. Holiday homes include mini-hotels, private small hotels and recreation centers.
Beach holiday
With the arrival of hot days, more and more people come to Nalchik, for whom a vacation at sea is not necessary. Nalchik has more than a dozen beaches and several outdoor swimming pools with clean water, which are located in large parks and above the water on pontoons.
Thus, one of the famous spa resorts in the Russian Federation is the Aushiger hot spring, where people bathe and at the same time receive health benefits.
No less popular among tourists are the Blue Lakes - a group of karst lakes that are fed by mineral waters. The most famous of these lakes is Nizhneye Goluboe, which is recognized as the second deepest in the world. It is loved by diving enthusiasts.
Active pastime
In Kabardino-Balkaria you can both soak up the beaches and have an interesting and exciting time. So, active recreation in Nalchik is quite possible. Here you will be offered to get acquainted with the Elbrus region and see the Baksan, Adylsu and Irik gorges. Climbing the mountains is both extreme and pleasure, and there are beautiful views from above, where you can take unique photographs.
Lovers of the mysterious can safely go and see the bottomless lake, located not far from the City of the Dead.
There are also horse trail options for horse lovers. So, it is interesting to repeat the route of the ancient Silk Road, visit the Khaznidon valley and see the mysterious lake Giy-Bash-Kel.
Attractions
The pride of Nalchik is the area where all medical institutions are located, including sanatoriums and rest homes - this is Dolinsk. Next to it, city guests are sure to visit the Atuzhkin Park, where various trees and shrubs that were brought from all over the world gathered in one place. For example, Canadian beech, Amur lilac, Japanese quince, Manchurian walnut, etc. have taken root here. The park is also rich in rare plant species, including two-lobed ginkgo. In addition to the plantings, this place has a lot of entertainment for children and adults.
While in Nalchik, it would be a shame not to go to the new miracle of the Russian Federation - the village of El-Tyuby. The local microclimate and amazing color will not only give you a lot of positive impressions, but will also have a healing effect on the body.
Another one of the most striking attractions of Kabardino-Balkaria is the Chegem Gorge. Thanks to a trip here, your vacation in Nalchik will be etched in your memory forever. Because there is a lot of interest to the traveler’s eye: ancient watchtowers, mausoleums, beautiful waterfalls, amazing caves, and a stone aqueduct that has survived to this day. And, of course, the famous Narzan springs.
Brief history of Nalchik
The Nalchik fortress was founded in 1818. In 1838, a military settlement arose at the fortress, and in 1863 a settlement appeared. In 1921, Nalchik received city status. In October 1942-January 1943. the city is under German occupation. As a result of military operations, the city was severely destroyed.
In 1966, a new urban plan was adopted, according to which Nalchik turned into a resort city. In 1991, the city became the capital of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic. In the early 90s, the capital fell into decay: many industries closed, refugees appeared. In 1997, the city began to revive.
In October 2005, Nalchik was attacked by Islamist militants. They repeated their attack in February 2011.
Panoramic restaurant “Sosruko” is one of the main attractions of Nalchik
Unusual places
Among the unusual attractions of the city is a restaurant called “Sosruko”. A summer vacation would be incomplete without visiting this establishment, which has often won awards for its presentable appearance. The building is made in the form of the head of a hero with his hand extended to the side. This restaurant can be seen from absolutely anywhere in Nalchik, since it was built on the slope of Mount Kizilovka. In addition to the external brightness, the restaurant has excellent colorful cuisine, hospitable staff and reasonable prices that will enhance your holiday in Nalchik. Reviews left by visitors on city websites confirm the high level of the establishment.
For lovers of excitement and fast horse riding, there is a hippodrome where horse races are held periodically. The stands here are always packed with spectators carefully watching the lightning-fast competitions.
35 main attractions of Nalchik (1 photo)
Kabardino-Balkaria Government Building
A historical building that is an architectural monument. The bright and beautiful building is made in a classical style with Baroque elements. The Government House looks solemn in any weather thanks to its white facades and round columns at its entrance. The Place de la Concorde in front of the building is decorated with flower beds and lawns. But its main highlight is the light and music fountain, dancing to classical music.
Atazhukinsky garden
One of the largest parks in the North Caucasus with an area of 250 hectares. Its main alley, one and a half kilometers long, is planted with linden, maple, and spruce trees. The park also has plantings of Japanese quince and paulownia. The park is almost 200 years old, after reconstruction it has become more comfortable and comfortable. On the territory of the garden there is a cable car station leading to Mount Bolshaya Kizilovka. There are children's playgrounds and attractions.
Resort lake
An artificial lake in the southern part of the city in the resort area of Dolinsk. The lake is surrounded on both sides by spurs of the Lesisty Ridge. The lake reaches a maximum depth of 7 meters in summer. On average, the depth of the lake is 3-4 meters. Kurortnoye is the only one of the four lakes in the city park in which swimming is allowed. Part of the coast is equipped only for children's beaches. There are catamaran and boat rentals.
Green Theater
Concert hall for the summer period in the Atazhukinsky Garden. It is designed in the form of an elegant three-story amphitheater and looks great in the overall landscape of the park. The Green Theater building is built on a mountain slope, and its benches seem to descend from the top to the stage. It seats 2,500 spectators. The theater has excellent acoustics, which is why it is used for concerts and large-scale festive events.
Palace of Celebrations "Elbrus"
It is located in the Atazhukinsky Garden and, together with the Green Theater, is one of the main decorations not only of the park, but of the whole of Nalchik. The unified architectural complex was built in 1957; in 2002, the palace underwent a large-scale reconstruction. Elbrus looks especially impressive in the spring, surrounded by flowering fruit trees. Elbrus hosts wedding ceremonies, city holidays and cultural events.
"Tower of Lovers"
The tower was built by order of Prince Atazhukin in 1867 on the territory of the city park. Construction was carried out in the style of medieval architecture. In 2011, the tower was bought by a private entrepreneur and after restoration it became a popular tourist attraction. The tower is used for wedding photo shoots. From its observation deck there are wonderful views of the park area with an artificial lake and an amphitheater.
Cable car across Lake Trek
Passes from the Atazhukinsky Garden to the top of Mount Bolshaya Kizilovka. The ascent is to a small height - only 100 meters, but this is quite enough to appreciate the beauty of Lake Trek. The length of the cable car is 658 meters, the journey in one direction takes no more than 10 minutes. The design of the cable car is chair-type, the seat is designed for one person. The cable car was built in 1958.
Mount Malaya Kizilovka
You can climb the mountain by cable car from the Atazhukinsky Garden. From the observation deck at its top there is a beautiful view of the park and its attractions - the Green Theater and the Palace of Celebrations. The surrounding area of the city is clearly visible, including the TV tower and the Caucasus mountain ranges. The Sosruko restaurant was also built here, and there are small kiosks selling souvenirs. At the top of the mountain you can take pictures in national costumes.
Restaurant "Sosruko"
It is located on the top of the Malaya Kizilovka mountain and is one of the main attractions of Nalchik because of its appearance. The restaurant building was built in the shape of the head of a hero - a hero of national epics. Nearby is his hand with a burning torch. There is a fountain in the form of a waterfall on the territory of the restaurant. The decor in the restaurant has a typical Caucasian style. Sosruko serves national gourmet dishes.
Sculpture "Star Stone"
The stone was brought from the Bezengi Gorge and installed in the city park. It has a height of 4 meters and a diameter of 3 meters. The weight of the stone is 40 tons. The stone is decorated with a bronze ornament, symbolizing the beauty of the nature of Kabardino-Balkaria and the unity of the peoples of the republic. Bronze inserts are a reflection of the starry sky. They were cast in Germany, at a factory specializing in the manufacture of bronze bells.
National Museum of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic
The National Republican Museum was founded in 1921. During this time, it collected several thousand exhibits of various subjects - archaeological, numismatic, ethnographic. The art department of the museum contains works by Bryullov, Aivazovsky and Roubaud, transferred from museums in Moscow and St. Petersburg. The museum has guides who have developed different programs taking into account the age of visitors.
Museum of Fine Arts A. L. Tkachenko
The museum exhibits more than 2,500 works of art by local authors, as well as about 200 works of foreign art. In addition to permanent exhibitions, temporary ones are exhibited - in exchange with other museums, from the personal funds of collectors. The exhibitions are varied in subject matter and time periods in which the works were created. Particularly interesting to visitors are works from the Soviet period and exhibitions of arts and crafts of the peoples of the republic.
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Nalchik Central Mosque
The main cathedral mosque of the city. It was built in one of the city squares. Construction according to the sketch of architect Asanov lasted 4 years and ended in 2004. Local decorative stones and minerals were used in interior and exterior decoration. The building has the appearance characteristic of a national religious building; two 30-meter-high minarets were erected at the entrance to the mosque. The dome of the mosque has a bright blue color.
Cathedral of Mary Magdalene
The largest Christian cathedral in the republic. The cathedral is made in classical Byzantine style. The two-story building with an area of 800 m² can accommodate up to 1,000 people at a time. The decoration of the temple is five domes and a four-tiered bell tower. The inside of the temple was painted by Moscow icon painters, who used the technique of Andrei Rublev in their work. The shrines of the temple are the icon of Mary Magdalene and the Matrona of Moscow.
Monument “Forever with Russia”
The monument is located opposite the building of the Musical Theater, on the square of the 400th anniversary of the annexation of Kabarda to Russia. The image of the Motherland is symbolized by the statue of Queen Maria Temryukovna, made of bronze. It is traditionally believed that she protects the tranquility and peace of her people. On the lower tier, bas-reliefs tell about important events in the history of the peoples of the republic. The monument was erected in 1957.
Memorial Arch of Friendship
Installed in 2007 on Baksan Highway. Its appearance resembles the famous Parisian Arc de Triomphe. The arch symbolizes the friendship of the peoples of Russia and Kabardino-Balkaria. The architectural design of the arch in a classic and simple style was carried out by Muzarib Bzhakhov. The memorial arch is combined with the natural landscape and the general architectural ensemble around. It was built at the personal expense of the President of the Republic.
Nalchik hippodrome
An important place for the entire republic, where horse breeding has long become part of folk culture. Construction of the hippodrome was completed in 1939. Large-scale reconstruction updated the existing infrastructure and currently the hippodrome is a modern complex that can organize international level competitions. The original stables of the hippodrome are designed in the shape of a horseshoe.
A popular place among city residents and tourists. Here you can buy almost any product, including national goods that you can bring home as souvenirs. The market is located in the historical center of the capital near the square named after. Gorky. The entrance to the market is decorated with an arch with columns and sculptures installed in niches. Their style is reminiscent of some of the sculptures at VDNKh in Moscow.
Drinking gallery "Nalchik Source"
Located in the resort park. The gallery began its work in 1970 and was reconstructed in 2003. A pavilion with healing water is available to any visitor to the park. The gallery can serve more than 4,000 people per day. Mineral water enters the gallery taps from a depth of about a kilometer. 36 taps are installed to supply water. Drinking water is recommended to improve the functioning of the liver, as well as the gastrointestinal tract.
Nalchik Arbat
Partially pedestrian street in the historical center of the city. 300 meters of the street, which was previously called Vorontsovskaya, and has now become Kabardinskaya, have been allocated for a completely pedestrian section. Both local residents and city guests love walks along Nalchik Arbat. On the street are exhibits of the Museum of Stone Artifacts, there is a cafe, benches and flower beds, and a beautiful fountain. A children's park with swings and slides has been built.
Nalchik Zoo
The zoo with a total area of 6.57 hectares is located in the resort area of Dolinsk. The zoo is home to about 350 animals and birds of 150 different species. Monkeys, lions and bears are of greatest interest to visitors. Comfortable, spacious enclosures have been built to keep the animals; there is a pond with an island for waterfowl. A children's city with slides and free admission has been built for young visitors.
Memorial "Tree of Life"
Installed in Freedom Square in 2004 in memory of the victims of the Russian-Caucasian War. The “Tree of Life” symbolizes a turning point in the life of the people and is an ancient symbol of the Circassians. Its seven branches mean seven generations of the family. The monument is made of bronze and has a height of 7 meters. The author of the memorial is the sculptor Arsen Guchapshev. According to the master, the memorial personifies the wisdom of the Adyghe people.
State Musical Theater
Opened in 1968. The ballet troupe was created from students of the cultural and educational school and was finally formed in 1969. Vocal performers of the theater can perform complex musical works, so the performances of the theater troupe are popular not only in the Caucasus. The theater successfully tours Russia and Ukraine. The theater's repertoire includes world classic productions.
State Concert Hall
It began work in 2001 and is a unique structure in its architecture in the North Caucasus. During its construction, translucent structures were used, and enamel was used in the glazing of the facade. The technical equipment of the concert hall meets all modern requirements. An octagon-shaped fountain was erected in front of the concert hall. The architects of the project are Asanov, Kiryazev and Logovatovsky.
Memorial to the victims of repression of the Balkar people
Dedicated to the history of the forced eviction of the Balkar people from the territory of Kabardino-Balkaria from 1944 to 1957. The memorial was opened on Kanukoev Street in 2002, and since then mourning rallies have been held near it every year. The style of the memorial combines Balkar architectural techniques and features of Central Asian architecture. The memorial exposition consists of personal belongings, documents and household items of the displaced.
Terraincourt "1000 steps"
A route designed for therapeutic walking. It is popular among local residents and athletes, as well as tourists. The route leads from the lower to the upper station of the abandoned cable car on Mount Bolshaya Kizilovka. This is a beautiful mountainous area with clean air and pristine nature. The total length of the route is 2640 meters. The highest point is at an altitude of 843 meters above sea level.
Cathedral of St. Simeon the Stylite
Located in the central part of the city. Built in 1851, destroyed almost to the ground in 1928. It was restored in 1943 and is currently one of the city's landmarks. The temple is small and made according to strict canonical rules. The cathedral consists of three parts - the altar, the temple and the vestibule. The dome is topped with an Orthodox eight-pointed cross. The walls inside are covered with frescoes.
Art gallery "Panorama"
Located in the center of Nalchik. The permanent exhibition of the gallery occupies three levels. The gallery's exhibitions feature photographs with views of the Caucasus. Mountains, gorges, lakes and rivers - in the photo you can see the most hidden, hard-to-reach places in Kabardino-Balkaria. Wide-format panoramic photographs are especially interesting - they create a real presence effect. Some of the photographs were taken from a helicopter; they allow you to appreciate the beauty of the Caucasian nature.
Stele "Nalchik - City of Military Glory"
In 2010, Nalchik was awarded the honorary title of City of Military Glory. In honor of this, a stele was erected, which was installed in 2015 in the Walnut Grove. At the base of the stele's pedestal there are several steps. The stele itself is a column topped with a double-headed eagle. On the sides of the stele there are slabs containing the text of the decree and the heraldry of the city of Nalchik, the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria and the Russian Federation.
“Monument to the soldiers of the 115th Kabardino-Balkarian Cavalry Division who died during the Second World War”
The memorial complex was erected at the intersection of Idarova and Malbakhova streets. Installed in honor of the 115th Cavalry Division, which participated in the battles during the Great Patriotic War in the North Caucasus. The author of the monument is Honored Artist of Russia and sculptor Mikhail Tkhakumashev. The sculpture depicts a warrior on horseback, which, according to the author, symbolizes the heroic fight against the enemy.
Memorial "Eternal Flame of Glory"
Located on the territory of a city park. It is a rectangular square with an obelisk in front of which burns an eternal flame. Evergreen spruce trees are planted around the memorial complex. The obelisk was erected in 1949, the eternal flame appeared in 1965 - on the 20th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. During memorable dates, ceremonies are held at the memorial; newlyweds lay flowers here.
Restaurant "Bochka"
One of the most unusual and extravagant restaurants in Nalchik. It is built in the form of a natural wooden barrel. The restaurant's interior is done in brown colors. The first and second floors are connected by a curved staircase with massive railings. Most of the dishes at Bochka are prepared using a barbecue. They are served with original national sauces and dressings. Baking made from original recipes has an unusual taste.
Memorial House-Museum of Marko Vovchok
The museum's exhibitions are dedicated to the work and life of the Ukrainian writer Marko Vovchok. She lived in the house built in 1906, where the museum is located, for the last two years of her life. Among the exhibits are her personal belongings, photographs and documents confirming close ties with famous writers - Turgenev, Dumas, Shevchenko, Chernyshevsky. Her grave is also located on the estate.
Monument to Komsomol heroes
The author of the monument is the sculptor Guide Bzheumykhov. It was opened in 1968, during the period of triumphant screening of films about Fantômas. The image of the Komsomol hero became popularly associated with the image of the main villain of the film. Hundreds of angry letters were sent to party bodies. By decision of the commission, the monument was left almost unchanged, and among the residents of the city, the unofficial name “Fantômas” was assigned to the monument.
Nalchik River
A small river, 54 km long, flows through the capital of Kabardino-Balkaria. The river is known for large floods; to prevent their consequences, the coastal zone within the city is regularly strengthened. The river is not navigable. Currently, active work is underway to improve the river bed for recreational and resort purposes. Currently, it is a shallow and narrow river along which you can take a walk.
Tips for tourists
Experienced travelers recommend choosing an economical resort option and going to Nalchik. Vacations, for which the private sector is just as suitable as hotels, will leave only pleasant impressions. Why Nalchik? Let's consider several reasons:
- it is a balneological and mountain climatic resort;
- the city is considered one of the most comfortable cities of the Russian Federation of the first category;
- clean air due to the absence of industrial facilities;
- mild and pleasant climate (not very hot summers and not severe winters)
- an abundance of sanatoriums with their own sources of mineral waters and healing mud;
- the presence of cafes, nightclubs, restaurants for adult entertainment;
- There are many children's parks, playgrounds, towns.
Vacationers are advised to book a room in their favorite hotel or holiday home in advance, so as not to have to run around the city looking for free places.
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Map of Nalchik with streets
Geographically, the city is divided into eight districts. The city also includes several villages. A map of Nalchik by district will help you find the following areas of the city:
- In the Center district there is the main street of the city - Lenin Avenue.
- In the east of the village you can find the Dubki district.
- In the northeastern region of the territory is the Aleksandrovka district. This area is one of the most remote.
- In the southwest is the Gornaya district. It is considered the most prestigious in the city. On its territory there are streets such as Shortanova and Kulieva.
- In the southeastern part you can find Volny Aul. A detailed map of Nalchik will allow you to do this.
- In the very south is the Dolinsk district.
- In the western part of the city limits there is the Zatishye district.
- The north-west of the city is marked by the Strelka district. It is divided into two small microdistricts.
- The Iskozh district can be found in the north of the city. It is located on the outskirts of the city area.
There are trolleybus and bus modes of transport throughout the city, and you can also take minibuses.
You can get to the city by plane or train. There are also highways passing through the city. There is a federal bypass road.
