Welcome to Veliky Novgorod, the birthplace of Russia. This ancient city, where the first Russian state was formed over a thousand years ago, offers a unique journey to the very origins of Russian history and spirituality. For travelers from India, Novgorod is more than a museum under the open sky; it is a place where the dialogue of our cultures is alive today, as evidenced by festivals of Indian art and a vibrant community of students. Discover the city where the past speaks to you through stone walls and where the present welcomes you with a piece of home.

A Living Bridge of Cultures: India in the Heart of Ancient Rus

The connection between Veliky Novgorod and India is not a thing of the past. In 2025, the city became part of a grand festival of Indian culture that covered 11 Russian cities. The festival opened with a performance by the Bollywood-style dance ensemble «Sugar&Spice» at the «Dialog» center. This event highlights a mutual interest: as the Ambassador of India to Russia noted, there is a «great interest in India» in the Russian regions. Furthermore, hundreds of Indian students study at Novgorod University, actively participating in the city’s life by conducting masterclasses in yoga and mehndi. This creates a unique environment where an Indian traveler can feel a familiar cultural footprint in the ancient Russian land.

The Cradle of Russian Statehood: Must-See Historical Treasures

Walking through Novgorod is like turning the pages of a history textbook. The city’s main sites are concentrated in a compact area, making it ideal for exploration.

Key Attractions:

Novgorod Kremlin (Detinets): The ancient fortress and spiritual center. Here stands the St. Sophia Cathedral (1045), the oldest stone temple in Russia. Its majestic simplicity and ancient frescoes are breathtaking.

Yaroslav’s Court (Yaroslavovo Dvorishche): The former commercial hub of medieval Novgorod on the opposite bank of the Volkhov. A picturesque ensemble of ancient churches, including the Church of St. Paraskeva-Pyatnitsa.

The Millennium of Russia Monument: Located inside the Kremlin, this grand bronze sculpture tells the history of the country through images of its greatest rulers, heroes, and cultural figures.

Open-Air Wooden Architecture Museum «Vitoslavlitsy»: A short trip from the center. Here you can see authentic wooden churches, houses, and mills brought from all over the Novgorod region, showcasing the genius of Russian carpentry.

A Taste of Home and Local Traditions

For Indian guests, the city offers opportunities to connect with familiar practices. You can find studios of Indian dance and centers of classical yoga. As for local cuisine, be sure to try Novgorod’s signature dishes: fragrant sbiten (a spicy honey drink), traditional rybniki (pies with fish), and Novgorod-style gingerbread.

Practical Guide for Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: Late spring, summer, and early autumn (May to September) offer the most pleasant weather for long walks. The city is also magical in winter, under a blanket of snow.

Getting There: The most convenient way is by train from Moscow (about a 3.5-hour journey on the high-speed «Lastochka»). You can also fly to St. Petersburg and then take a bus or train to Novgorod (about 3 hours).

Safety Note: As in any historic city with water bodies, please be mindful of your surroundings. Admire the Volkhov River from the embankments and use only designated and safe areas for recreation.

For Families: The city is calm, safe, and full of educational sites that will be interesting for both children and adults.

Walk Through the Pages of History

Veliky Novgorod invites you to experience a Russia that is foundational and authentic. Let Vizit Russia organize your journey to this legendary city, where every stone has a story to tell.

Where Russia began, and where the world meets.