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Kashira: Old Town, Oka River Scenery and a Trip from Moscow

The town of Kashira lies quite far from Moscow (about 120 km). As a result, there are almost no casual visitors here. Most tourists visiting the Russian capital stay in the city or nearby, or visit the closest country estates in the Moscow Region (Arkhangelskoye and others). Kashira is therefore visited by travellers who genuinely want to get to know the Russian provinces.


Depending on the mode of transport, it takes 2–3 hours to get there. A car is not always the fastest option: Moscow’s notorious traffic jams can make getting out of the city a nightmare. One alternative is to take a suburban train from Paveletsky Station and then continue by bus.

You have now arrived in Kashira. The town is a fine example of classical Russian architecture. Its layout has no circles or curves: the streets are straight, the neighbourhoods are laid out in perfect rectangles, and the buildings exemplify the strict, precise execution of architectural ideas. The old merchant houses, found in almost every town in the Moscow Region, add an extra touch of cosiness. Kashira’s cathedral and other churches lend the town the solidity, composure and beauty characteristic of central Russia.


Kashira has been known since the mid-14th century, although it was not the first settlement in the area. An ancient settlement belonging to the so-called Dyakovo culture, dating from the 7th to 4th centuries BCE, has been discovered within the town limits.


The town was originally built on the left bank of the Oka River. Its main purpose was to defend the borders of the Moscow state. During the medieval Time of Troubles, the town was unable to withstand destruction. It was eventually abandoned after a Tatar raid in the 16th century. The town’s fate was decided somewhat later: it was moved to the right bank of the Oka, where it stands to this day.

One reason to visit Kashira is the Nikitsky Monastery, the town’s main attraction. The monastery’s cathedral combines several architectural styles and is considered a masterpiece of 19th-century Russian architecture. The monastery also offers a fine view of the Oka River.


There is also plenty to see around the town. Nearby attractions include the Sendikovo estate, the villa near the village of Lida, the town of Koltovo (Kotlesk), which is as old as Moscow, the Trinity Belopesotsky Monastery and other places of particular interest.

Quick facts: Kashira

  • Kashira lies south of Moscow, in Moscow Oblast, on the Oka River.
  • The town is better suited to a regional day trip than to a casual stopover.
  • Train, bus and car may each be more or less suitable depending on your starting point, traffic and current schedules.
  • Plan your time in the town, by the river and in the surrounding area, allowing for your stay and return journey.
  • Country estates, Kolomna and Zvenigorod are separate destinations in different directions, each with its own focus.
  • Check current schedules, traffic, entry and safety advice before departure.

Kashira as a trip to the Moscow countryside

Kashira is a good choice for a trip if you are looking for a smaller town, river scenery and historic sites beyond central Moscow. When planning, decide whether your main interest is a town walk, churches, country estates or the surrounding area. Choosing one clear reason for the trip helps prevent wasting your available time on too many scattered destinations.

Check rail and road connections, your return journey and current opening hours before setting out. Journeys around the region may take longer than expected. In good weather, you can combine a cultural attraction with a walk; in changeable conditions, have an indoor alternative ready. Allow plenty of extra time for the return to Moscow.

Combining the town, river and journey realistically

Kashira is well suited to travellers who want to discover a smaller town and the Oka landscape alongside Moscow. Kashira should be planned according to your actual starting point; Podmoskovye provides the regional context. Russian tourism information offers an additional overview, but is no substitute for current local schedules.

Those interested in historic estates can compare country estates around Moscow, Arkhangelskoye or Ostafyevo. Kolomna and Zvenigorod are other town destinations; Central Russia and the Golden Ring provide a broader context.

Before your trip, check the latest information on getting there and transport, rail travel and stations, transfers and local transport, travel preparation, contingency funds, contacts and a Plan B and staying safe. The current travel and safety advice for the Russian Federation takes precedence over outdated information. Confirm the timetable, connections, weather, routes, opening hours and return journey for the specific day.

Kashira FAQ

Where is Kashira?

Kashira lies south of Moscow, in Moscow Oblast, on the Oka River. It is a regional town.

How do you get from Moscow to Kashira?

Depending on your starting point, you can travel by train, bus or car. Check current schedules, connections, traffic and return options separately.

How much time should you allow?

A full day is a good idea if you want to combine the town, the riverbank and another main attraction. Allow ample time for the journey.

Can you combine Kashira with a country estate?

That depends on the direction, opening hours, traffic and daylight. Add a country estate or a second town only if you have enough time in reserve.