Makhtal

Top choice in Yakutsk


In the old town, Makhtal is one of Yakutsk's most atmospheric options, with thick log walls adorned with traditional tapestries and handsomely attired waitstaff gliding about in broad-shouldered tunics and long flowing robes. Downstairs there's a cheap and informal cafeteria, while upstairs it's a Yakut feast with dishes including horse meat in caramel and indigirka (raw, frozen fish).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Yakutsk attractions

1. Pyotr Beketov Monument

0.07 MILES

This rather brash gold-plated pillar in the old town honours Cossack explorer and founder of Yakutsk, Pyotr Beketov.

2. Transfiguration Church

0.09 MILES

This mid-19th-century church with gorgeous golden domes in Yakutsk's old town is the city's most attractive.

3. Treasury of the Sakha Republic

0.14 MILES

Pay a visit to this unique museum for a look at Yakutia's rich mineral wealth combined with fine craft traditions. You'll see exquisite carvings in…

4. National Art Museum

0.23 MILES

If time is limited, don't miss this excellent museum, with Sakha-themed exhibits covering local craftmaking traditions (mammoth tusk carvings, reindeer…

5. Lenin Statue

0.33 MILES

Vlad Ilych still stands on Yakutsk's main square doing a particularly directional pose.

6. Yakutsk Regional History Museum

0.56 MILES

A good place to delve deeper into Sakha culture, the Regional History Museum contains local minerals, information on the region’s first Russian settlers…

7. Khomus Museum

0.92 MILES

Khomus (Jew’s harps) play a big part in Sakha culture. Concerts occur year-round, when performers imitate natural sounds such as a horse neighing. The…

8. Mammoth Museum

1.16 MILES

Despite its rather exciting-sounding name, this one-room museum is rather a let-down due to its total lack of signage in English. On the plus side, there…