Udmurt Republic: Tchaikovsky, Traditions and Nature

The Peter Tchaikovsky Museum in Votkinsk opened in 1940. Its exhibition reconstructs the interior of a house from the mid-19th century and displays historical furniture from the 18th to the 20th century, porcelain, postcards, paintings and books. The exhibits also include the Wirth grand piano, on which the composer learned to play. The exhibition thus offers both a reconstructed domestic setting and a tangible connection to Tchaikovsky’s musical history.

Tchaikovsky and Votkinsk

The family’s biography also gives the place a historical context: Tchaikovsky’s family lived in Votkinsk from 1837 to 1848, for a total of eleven years, and then moved to Moscow. Centuries-old lime trees stand in the museum garden. The oldest was 242 years old in 2020.

Historical ways of life in Ludorvai and Sarapul

The Ludorvai Museum Reserve comprises more than 20 buildings from the late 19th to the early 20th century. It conveys the everyday life of Russians, Besermyans and Udmurts from the 19th to the early 20th century. One notable structure is the tent-shaped windmill, a valuable monument of wooden architecture. Fyodor Dragomirov built it in 1912; he came from the Udmurt village of Chem-Kuyuk.

In Sarapul, the “Dacha Bashenina” art and exhibition complex invites visitors to learn about the history of the house and its residents, enjoy the old park and tour the interiors of the merchant’s residence. If you plan a visit, it is advisable to check the current arrangements in advance.

Idnakar: History and Legend

The “Idnakar” Museum Reserve is located on the Cheptsa hillfort. From the 9th to the 13th century, Idnakar was a center of Udmurt cultural, commercial and craft life. A legend is also part of the site’s history: according to the tale, the Cheptsa hillfort was founded by Idna, a Udmurt hero and prince. Its historical significance and traditional story offer two different ways to explore the past.

Nature Park and Seasonal Walks

Sharkan Nature Park lies between the Ita and Sharkan rivers and covers about 16,000 hectares. It is home to 507 species of higher plants—about half of the republic’s total flora. Its five functional zones are designated as a protected zone, a nature reserve zone, an organized tourism and recreation zone, a traditional-use zone and a buffer zone.

At the Kokmansky Nature Reserve, the focus is on seasonal walks: free guided walks are offered on request from July to October, and ski walks take place in winter. As guided walks are available on request and activities vary by season, it is best to ask about current arrangements when planning your visit.

Udmurt Traditions in Sharkan

The village of Sharkan is home to Tol Babay’s residence. The complex includes a carved wooden house, a children’s play area, a horse yard and a café serving Udmurt dishes. Visitors can play traditional Udmurt games and watch theatrical performances there. Tours are available at Tol Babay’s house or at the house of Obyda-Kar, described as the Udmurt Baba Yaga. It is advisable to inquire in advance about tours and performances; also check the residence’s current arrangements before your visit.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Izhevsk, Izhevsk, Zvenigovsky District, Uvinskiy District, Sarapul'skiy District, Sarapul, Pirogovo, Glazov, Votkinsk, Khokhryaki, Ustinovskiy, Pervomayskiy, Leninskiy, Pedonovo, Industrialnyy, Uva, Yar, Sharkan, Staroye Martyanovo, Mozhga, Zavyalovo, Zavyalovskiy District, Izhevsk.

For the main travel overview: Russia.