Elista is the capital of Kalmykia in Russia, containing many Buddhist temples, monasteries and architecture.
The city was founded in 1865, and has a population of just over 100,000. When, in WWII, a significant number of Kalmyks collaborated with the Germans during WWII, Stalin dissolved the Kalmyk ASSR, deported much of the citizenry to Siberia, and resettled the land with ethnic Russians and Siberians. Elista was named Stepnoy during this period. Only after Stalin's death were the Kalmyk people allowed to return, and the city resumed its former name.
1 Golden Temple of Elista (Burkhan Bakshin Altan Sume). Modern Buddhist temple opened in 2005 with the Dalai Lama's blessing, and said to be the biggest in Europe. It is quite visible from many places in town. Museum of Kalmyk Buddhist Art. Museum of Local Lore. Museum of Buddhist History. Gallery of Fine Arts. Kazansky Cathedral.
Uralan (Уралан), Nomto Ochirova St., 9 Zheltaya Cheburechka, Ulitsa Pushkina 1. A little shwarma/cheburek hut that seems to win people's hearts and serves tea. Chaykhana "Tamerlan", Ulitsa Imeni Yu 27A. Good-sized portions of kebabs, dumplings, soup, etc. Gurman, Ulitsa Imeni Nomto Ochirova 9. Traditional dishes. Attached to the Kalmykia Museum. Cafe Kalmyk Cuisine (Калмыцкая Кухня) Restaurant White Lotus (Белый Лотос) (in Bely Lotus Hotel).
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
In Aug, Elista typically sees ~31°C daytime highs and 6 rainy days.
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