Russia president Vladimir Putin has made several visits to the region, and was inspired to go bare-chested on horseback for a photo opportunity. Despite the region's fame though, Kyzyl is barely accessible. There are no direct flights from Moscow and no connection with the Trans Siberian railroad. The nearest major city is a 400-kilometer journey. Above: People visit a cultural centre in the Aldyn Bulak area on the bank of the Yenisei River outside the village of Ust-Elegest, Tuva Republic. Picture: Ilya Naymushin/Reuters

Credit : Ilya Naymushin/Reuters