Rainbow Waterfall

Rainbow Waterfall is a cascade on the Nara River on the border of the Kaluga region and the Moscow region. Noticeably inferior in scope and power of the stream waterfalls of Karelia, for Central Russia it is quite representative. The stream flowing out of a karst cavity falls into the river from a height of 5 meters, breaking into sun-shining drops of water – hence the name “Raduzhny”. Until recently, only a select few local historians knew about the natural attraction, but now the Rainbow Waterfall has become a place of year-round pilgrimage of tourists.

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Video: Rainbow Waterfall

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Geographical location of Rainbow Falls

Raduzhny is not the only waterfall on the Nara River, as karst springs are typical of the region. Downstream there are several other brooks-cascades 2-3 meters high, but Raduzhny is undoubtedly the most picturesque of them all. It flows along the steep bank of the river, jumping from stone to stone on the limestone protruding to the surface, overgrown with bright green moss and emerald grass.

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Water temperature in the Rainbow Falls in summer does not rise above +8 °C, so splash in its jets do not dare even the most daring daredevils. Upstream, near the ford, there are places where you can venture into the water, but the Nara itself is not too warm. The underground stream that comes to the surface does not freeze even in winter. At this time, the green moss looks especially spectacular against the snow-covered banks.

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Waterfall surroundings

The forest comes close to the high bank, and this makes it difficult for tourists to access the Rainbow Falls. When there is enough rain, the young growths of trees are joined by patches of wicked nettles and equally prickly raspberries. The forest belt near the river is not wide at all, already 100 meters away you can pitch a tent in the meadow. One should only keep in mind that in rainy weather the meadow instantly turns into a swamp. Besides, according to the old-timers, there are a lot of snakes in the neighborhood. Who are these reptiles, harmless urchins or something more serious, the locals do not specify.

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Several forest streams flow into the Nara River, creating obstacles for tourists. Some of them will have to be forded, trying not to slip on the clay banks, over others there are no less slippery logs. Despite the invasion of guests, the forest around Rainbow Falls has not yet turned into a garbage dump, and you can pick chanterelles in it.

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Tourist Information

In the summer season the Rainbow Falls are full of tourists, in late spring or early fall, when it gets cooler, there are chances to be here alone and even spend the night in the nearest meadow. Despite its proximity to the road, the journey to the waterfall is a serious test of endurance, so you won’t have much energy left for visiting other attractions. Fortunately, there are none in the vicinity of Raduzhnoye, except that 13 km further along the Kaluga highway there is a bird park “Sparrows” with 2000 inhabitants from all over the world. There are no facilities and amenities of civilization in the form of cafes or bio-toilets nearby either. It is not recommended to take young children with you – the obstacles may be too difficult for them.

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How to dress when planning a visit to the Rainbow Falls

Information that from the highway to the Rainbow Falls is only 500 m, should not disorient tourists. These half a kilometer will have to be overcome on foot, since only off-road vehicles can pass on the country road, turning the already difficult section into a mess. The ground in the region is clayey, which retains moisture for a long time, so the best footwear for walking is rubber boots with non-slip soles. After a good rain, guests will find at least a 10-centimeter layer of viscous mud. The path goes through the public pasture, so you should watch your feet with double attention. You may need spare clothes. When crossing streams, it is easy to stumble, and if you choose a shortcut with a steep descent to the water, you’ll just have to slide down it.

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How to get there

Rainbow Waterfall is located near the village of Papino on the Kaluga highway, about 45 km from Moscow. You can get to the place by private transport, buses coming from Obninsk, or on foot from the platform “250 km” on the District Railway. The last option is a real hike, because you will have to overcome 15 km. Approaching by private car, you need to get to the border with the Kaluga region and wait for the sign for the turn to the dachas. On the road there are no hints that there is a nearby waterfall Raduzhny.

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The car is left at the roadside forest, because the road further is completely broken, then move on foot to the northwest. When you reach the forest near the coast, you can choose one of two options for the route. The shorter route leads through impenetrable thickets and ends with a steep descent to the waterfall. In addition, there is an opportunity to take the edge of the forest to the north and go around, forcing five streams.

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