KARACHAY – CHERKESSIA

The Republic of Karachay – Cherkessia located in the center of the North Caucasus Caucasus is a paradise for hikers !

It is named after its two main ethnic groups : Karachay and Tcherkess people. The first ones are Turkic people living mostly in the mountains and the second are Circassians living in the lowlands. There are also Russians, Nogays and Abazas populating the republic.

Popular among Russian tourists, КЧР (K-Tch-R) as it it often spelt in Russian is an off beaten track destination for foreigners : Lots of hiking possibilities and plenty of history to discover !

Karachay Cherkessia flag
Quick overview
  • Population : about 470 000
  • Minorities : Karachay and Cherkess
  • Capital : Tcherkesk
  • Religions : Sunni Islam
  • Protected area : Teberda Nature Reserve
  • Must try food : Khichin, shorpa
  • Best time to visit : summer
Sofia lakes in the Teberda National Park in Karachay - Cherkessia, North Caucasus
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What is the best time to go to Karachay – Cherkessia ?

Summer. Karachay – Cherkessia is heaven for mountain enthusiasts and summer is definetly the best time of the year to hike around the Republic.