Shaman Stone

Baikal has many places of natural origin which are associated with the faith of the local population in shamanic spirits, for shamanism is a huge part of the local culture.
One of the most important sacred places of Baikal is the mysterious Shaman Stone, which has become the most popular tourist attraction. You cannot miss seeing it, because there is a belief that Shaman Stone is the very place where Angara ends and Baikal begins.

Shaman Stone is a rock which stands at the source of the Angara River and rises above the water by 1-1. 5 m in case of good weather. However, a real rock mass is hidden under the water, thanks to this fact the Angara River does not freeze in winter. Locals will surely tell you the legend about the way Shaman Stone appeared at this place:

IT IS THE VERY STONE THAT THE FATHER BAIKAL USED FOR BLOCKING THE PATH OF HIS CAPRICIOUS AND BEAUTIFUL DAUGHTER ANGARA WHO SECRETLY RAN AWAY TO HANDSOME YENISEI.

In ancient times Shaman Stone was attributed a miraculous power. According to a legend, the Master of Angara lived here – the Buryat God Ama Sagaan noiona. Shamans carried out important rites here, prayed and gave oaths. Another cruel custom is associated with this very place: criminals were tied to the stone and left for a night, if they managed to survive, the sentenced persons received forgiveness; but if Baikal waters washed the criminals away, then they were acknowledged really guilty and the great Lake punished them.