Russia to open easternmost peninsula for visitors

The Russian government is planning to turn its easternmost Chukotka peninsula into a tourism site, regional authorities said Thursday.

Moscow is going to remove Chukotka from a list of territories under a special border regime, Xinhua reported.

According to Chukotka governor's press service, the restrictions will be scrapped within the next six months in five areas of the Chukotka Autonomous District, as well as its capital Anadyr.

Regional authorities said the lifting of restrictions will facilitate economic development and tourism in the region.

The decision will come in force after being approved by the Russian parliament, which would allow Russian and foreign visitors to travel to the border district.

The sub-polar peninsula has unique landscapes, including hot springs, monuments as well as archeological, historical and cultural heritages.

Two areas of the district in close proximity to the US will remain controlled by special border regime.

Chukotka borders the US state of Alaska on the other side of the Bering Strait, which can be crossed by foot when frozen.