Opening of the National Centre RUSSIA branch in Yugra set to multiply tourist flow to the region severalfold

When will the branch of the National Centre RUSSIA open in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra, and what will become its symbol? How will the space be divided into thematic zones, and what will the new unique expositions feature? Head of the Directorate for Social Communications and Regional Cooperation of the National Centre RUSSIA, Irina Tesleva, spoke about this and much more in an interview with "Radio Yugoria". Below are the key highlights.

The opening of the National Centre RUSSIA branch in the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area – Yugra is scheduled for December 2025, to coincide with the 95th anniversary of the autonomous area. The building is currently in the final stage of major renovation.

The total area of the branch will be six thousand square metres. The facility will include three multifunctional halls equipped with modern technology — for 400, 300 and 80 guests respectively.

There will also be a gastronomy zone and a department store featuring authentic products from across Russia. Visitors will find several categories there: tableware, groceries, accessories, and even cosmetics. "It’s a big surprise to many that Russia produces cosmetics of incredible quality in many regions — I truly recommend it to all women. However, the main goal is not just to sell something, but to showcase regional diversity and teach how it can enrich everyday life," said Irina Tesleva.

The main area, covering 2,000 square metres, will host the exposition "Pride of the Future" based on proposals and ideas submitted by residents of Yugra. It will reflect the uniqueness of each of the 22 municipalities of the autonomous area and tell the story of Yugra — from its earliest chronicles to the modern era of industrial development in the North.

A temporary historical and patriotic exposition is also planned, dedicated to Yugra’s Heroes of the Fatherland. In addition, the building will host a volunteer and youth zone, "Dobro.Centre".

Each branch of the National Centre RUSSIA features a distinctive regional symbol, enhancing the sense of pride for the country. After thorough discussions with colleagues from Yugra, the loon was chosen as such a symbol. According to legend, when the planet was covered with water, the loon performed a heroic deed — it repeatedly dived to the ocean floor and brought up soil, from which land, islands and continents later emerged. "So it’s not just a symbol — it’s a tribute to the indigenous peoples and traditions of Yugra," noted Irina Tesleva. The symbol will also appear on many items in the Department Store.

"I’m confident that the Yugra branch of the National Centre RUSSIA will become a new point of attraction — a place one simply must visit to truly understand and feel this beautiful and distinctive region. Russians have always been interested in Yugra, and this branch will help reveal its many facets. I have no doubt that its opening will significantly increase the tourist flow to the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area," Irina Tesleva concluded.

P.S. The National Centre RUSSIA in Yugra is located at 1 Georgy Velichko Street, Khanty-Mansiysk (next to the Gennady Raishev Embankment).