The Yenisei, taiga, and ancient stone sanctuaries – in this episode, Peter Scott travels to Khakassia. This region is known as the land of five elements and a place of spiritual power.
The journey begins on the Yenisei, which the locals call the ‘Father of Rivers’. Peter learns how it crosses the whole of Siberia before reaching the Kara Sea. This is also where the Sayano-Shushenskaya Hydroelectric Power Plant stands – one of the most powerful in Russia. The dam is 242 metres tall. A unique microclimate has formed around it, making it possible to grow apples, pears, apricots, and grapes… even in Siberia!
Peter also visits one of the most unusual places in Khakassia – the Sunduki Ridge, whose five mountains resemble enormous stone chests. The site is closely tied to ancient beliefs and rituals. To this day, shamans gather here to mark the summer solstice.
In the final part of the journey, Peter heads north across Khakassia. He visits a former settlement from the gold rush era, crosses wild mountain terrain, and reaches the Ivanov Lakes with their bright emerald waters. In winter, this landscape is transformed into a world of deep snow and freeriding. Snowdrifts here can reach a height of up to ten metres, and it can feel as if you’ve lived through all four seasons in a single day.
