Kungur Ice Cave
Ural Federal District Region
Kungur Ice Cave is a remarkable natural karst cave located near the town of Kungur in Perm Krai, Russia, on the right bank of the Sylva River. Known for its stunning ice formations that persist even during summer, the cave features multiple grottoes such as the Ethereal Grotto with its vertical "Organ Pipe" formations and the Diamond Grotto renowned for frost and icicles year-round. The cave has been a popular tourist destination since 1914, offering three main tour routes varying in length and difficulty, including a route with a laser show. The cave's interior also holds archaeological significance, with ancient settlement sites dating back to the 7th-9th centuries related to the Lomovatov culture. Visitors can explore natural underground lakes and unique rock formations, making it a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The cave's folklore includes the "female tears" stone steps, linked to a local legend about marriage luck for women who fall there. Annually, the cave welcomes around one hundred thousand visitors, highlighting its status as a major regional attraction.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Kungur Ice Cave is during the warmer months to witness the rare summer ice formations, especially in the Diamond Grotto. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for the longest and most challenging tour that includes a laser show. Visitors should wear warm clothing inside the cave due to low temperatures year-round. Discounts may be available for groups and children. Guided tours provide valuable insights into the cave's natural features and history.
Faits intéressants
- •The cave contains a set of narrow stone steps called "the female tears," linked to a local legend promising marriage soon after a woman falls there.
- •Over five million people have visited the cave since it opened to tourists in 1914.
- •The cave features a natural "Organ Pipe" formation in the Ethereal Grotto and an underground lake in the Long Grotto.
- •Ice formations in the Diamond Grotto persist even during the summer months.
Histoire
Kungur Ice Cave has been known since 1703, when Peter the Great commissioned geographer Semyon Remezov to map the area and sketch the cave.
It officially became a tourist site in 1914 and has since attracted millions of visitors.
Archaeological excavations have revealed ancient settlements from the 7th-9th centuries related to the Lomovatov culture near the cave.
Over centuries, the cave's natural formations and cultural significance have been preserved, making it a unique historical and geological landmark in the Ural region.
Guide du lieu
Long Grotto
An underground lake within the cave, offering a serene and mysterious atmosphere deep inside the karst system.
Ethereal Grotto
Known for its vertical "Organ Pipe" rock formations that resemble giant organ pipes, creating a striking visual effect.
Tower Grotto
Features a unique mouse-like rock formation, adding to the cave's collection of natural sculptures.
Diamond (Polar) Grotto
This grotto is notable for frost and icicles that remain even during summer, showcasing the cave's perennial ice.
Dante Grotto
Characterized by natural "ceiling blocks," offering a dramatic and photogenic interior space.
Contact
Téléphone: 8 (800) 700-17-33