Chechnya

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Chechnya
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Information
Country:
Flag of Russia
Russia
State: Chechnya
Major roads: R217
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Chechen Republic (Russian: Чеченская республика) is a region in Russia. It is part of the North Caucasian Federal District. The administrative center is the city of Grozny.

The Chechen Republic shares borders with: Ingushetia to the west, North Ossetia–Alania to the northwest, Stavropol Krai to the north, Dagestan to the northeast and east, and Georgia to the south. Its southern boundary, which coincides with the national border of Russia, runs along mountain ridges.

Cities

Hitchhiking and Travel Features

  • Hitchhiking is considered the best in Russia. Starting from Rostov-on-Don and along the entire "Kavkaz" highway, Chechen drivers in modern, fast cars are most likely to give you a lift. Unlike drivers from other republics, Chechen drivers are always sober, do not use prohibited substances, do not swear, and do not listen to chanson music.
  • Locals treat travelers very well if you present yourself as a traveler, not as a journalist "on an investigation." You will find genuine Caucasian hospitality, openness, and sincere joy in both cities and villages. Elderly Chechens enjoy reminiscing about the "USSR times" when tourists traveled throughout the Caucasus. Young Chechens will thank you "for coming to our republic and not being afraid of stereotypes," going out of their way to help and care for "dear guests."
  • There may be problems with movement during Counter-Terrorist Operation (KTO) regimes. You will be informed of a KTO regime in advance before entering the republic. Do not attempt to enter a KTO zone!
  • Do not try to photograph military, police, or guards in the street in Grozny without their explicit consent. Keep your camera hidden near checkpoints, military concentrations, border posts, and military units.
  • Sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in Chechnya. Alcohol may only be purchased and consumed in special bars for foreign guests, but it is best to avoid it to prevent "undesirable incidents."
  • There are no street criminals, pickpockets, drunk or swearing people in Chechnya. Do not use foul language around others, and do not walk in short pants in public places. Female guests do not have to cover their heads, but it is better to wear a dress instead of pants. Women's shorts are not acceptable. A woman smoking in the presence of other men will face public disapproval.
  • Any public display of sexuality is prohibited—hugging, kissing, jokes or anecdotes about sex. Respect those older than you by age or rank. Women should not interfere in men's conversations; your male companion should handle questions and problems. Avoid arguing with your man in front of others, do not sort out your relationship or criticize him in public.
  • If traveling as a mixed-gender couple, have the man address Chechen men, and the woman address Chechen women. This applies everywhere: on the street, in transport, shops, hotels, etc.
  • Guests are allowed many things in the republic; do not hesitate to politely ask if you are unsure whether something is acceptable. You will most likely not be refused.
  • If you plan to make any acquaintances, study the list of Chechen teips and tukkhums. If your local acquaintance says they are from a certain teip and says, "You are my guests! If you need anything—let me know!" then remember their name and teip; if someone asks, "Who are you visiting?" you can give that information.
  • Do not bring up topics related to war and interethnic relations yourself. Read the articles about the deportation of the Chechens and Ingush and the Chechen conflict to be aware if locals bring up the topic.
  • Cross borders with neighboring regions only on main roads. There are no crossings into Georgia from Chechnya! The border is very tightly guarded, and border guards may use lethal force, considering all illegal crossers as Islamist militants. To get to Georgia legally, you must use the Upper Lars - Darial border crossing near Vladikavkaz or go via Dagestan and Azerbaijan.
  • The border zone in Chechnya is a strip in the mountains up to 30 kilometers from the border. Although there are villages in the zone and locals may invite you, remember a special permit must be obtained in advance (for example, via the "Gosuslugi" website).
  • When camping overnight in the mountains, watch out for poisonous snakes. According to locals, there are still many unexploded mines and shells from the Chechen conflicts in forested areas.

Motorways

  • R217 "Kavkaz" – a federal highway from Pavlovskaya village in Krasnodar Krai to Yarag-Kazmalyar village (border of Dagestan with Azerbaijan).

Other useful info

VK Groups

Other links:

Telegram resources