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Old Khural Cultural Tour
Get ready for a truly unique cultural experience in Kalmykia - we're talking ancient history, rich tradition, and a deep dive into the local way of life. Our Old Khural tour takes you straight to the heart of this incredible Buddhist monastery, where you'll explore every nook and cranny and soak up the atmosphere. You'll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of this sacred site, and come away with a newfound appreciation for the culture and customs of Kalmykia.
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A Hidden Gem in Kalmykia: Sakyusn-Sume - A Peaceful Oasis
summarizeEditor's Summary
I recently had the chance to explore Kalmykia and was blown away by the experience. Sakyusn-Sume, a peaceful oasis just outside Elista, stole my heart with its stunning Buddhist temple and serene surroundings. The drive there was a breeze, and parking was a cinch. But what really impressed me was the build quality of the temple – it's clear that a lot of love and care went into its construction. The temple's solid buttons and sturdy structure are a testament to that. If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, Sakyusn-Sume is definitely worth a visit. The surrounding park area is a great place to relax and take in the scenery, and the Arshan settlement is a charming spot to explore with plenty of shops and cafes to discover. And let's not forget the Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni in Elista – it's a stunning sight to behold. But what really sets Sakyusn-Sume apart is its unique history and cultural significance.
settingsSpecifications
KararMükemmel
Havalim9/10
Mimarilik8/10
Düzenlilik7/10
I've got to say, I was blown away by Sakyusn-Sume, a real gem in Kalmykia. We had the chance to explore this beautiful region, not just the city, but the republic itself. You might know about the main attraction in Elista, the stunning Buddhist temple Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni. But just a stone's throw from the city, there's another must-see spot - the Old Hural of Sakyusn-Sume.
We drove there and found it to be just six kilometers from the capital of Kalmykia, near the Arshan settlement. It's a pretty straightforward drive, and you can park your car near the temple and the park area.
A hural in Kalmykia refers to a Buddhist shrine. In Elista, there are several of them, including the Old Hural, or Sakyusn-Sume. However, "old" is a bit of an understatement - it was built in the capital of Kalmykia in the 1990s. This place is one of the most popular destinations for Buddhists and tourists interested in spiritual practices.
Located just outside the city, Sakyusn-Sume has a uniquely calming atmosphere, which sets it apart from the Central Hural (Golden Abode). The temple is perfect for immersing yourself in contemplative meditation. The white, gold-decorated stupas contain the ashes of famous lamas. The building itself is small, designed in traditional Buddhist architecture. You'll find prayer drums, sculptures, and frescoes.
The area surrounding the temple is well-maintained. We walked along the path and first came across the red prayer drums. You need to turn them clockwise. Inside the drums, you'll find sacred texts represented by mantras.
When walking around the stupas, be sure to go in a clockwise direction. In Buddhist tradition, stupas are believed to bring harmony and peace, eliminate negative energy, suppress evil forces, and promote prosperity in the area where they're located.
On the ground floor, you'll find the prayer hall, the altar, and in the center, a large statue of Buddha Shakyamuni covered in gold dust, standing at 3.5 meters tall.
I'm not well-versed in Buddhism, but these structures look beautiful, and it's definitely worth visiting a place like this.
The walls of the temple are decorated with traditional Tibetan monastery frescoes.
After visiting the stupas, we headed to the temple. This one's not as big as the one in the city center, but it looks beautiful and cozy. Before the Golden Abode was built, the Old Hural was the largest Buddhist temple in Kalmykia. We visited in the spring, so we didn't rush to leave this lovely spot - the area around the temple is green and blooming with flowers. It's a pleasure to be on the territory, it's peaceful, and there aren't many tourists. Definitely worth stopping by if you're traveling through Kalmykia.
I highly recommend visiting Sakyusn-Sume - it's a real treasure in Kalmykia.
Thanks for reading.
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What is a hural in Kalmykia, and what's the significance of the Old Hural of Sakyusn-Sume?
A hural in Kalmykia refers to a Buddhist shrine, and the Old Hural of Sakyusn-Sume is a particularly important one, with a rich history and cultural significance.
How do I get to Sakyusn-Sume from Elista?
The drive to Sakyusn-Sume is approximately six kilometers from the capital of Kalmykia, and the road is generally well-maintained.
What are the temple's hours of operation?
The temple's hours of operation can vary depending on the time of year and other factors, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time to plan your visit.
Can I park my car near the temple?
Yes, there is a designated parking area near the temple, although it can get a bit crowded during peak season.
Are there any amenities or services available near the temple?
There are several shops and cafes in the nearby Arshan settlement, as well as a few restaurants and hotels.
Can I take photos inside the temple?
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the temple, although you may want to check with the temple staff or a guide to confirm.
check_circlePros
- •The drive to Sakyusn-Sume is a straightforward six kilometers from the capital of Kalmykia.
- •The temple's build quality is impressive, with solid buttons and a sturdy structure.
- •The surrounding park area is a great place to relax and take in the scenery.
- •The Arshan settlement is a charming spot to explore, with plenty of shops and cafes to discover.
- •The Golden Abode of Buddha Shakyamuni in Elista is a stunning sight to behold.
- •The Old Hural of Sakyusn-Sume is a must-see attraction, with its unique architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
cancelCons
- •The temple's hours of operation can be a bit confusing, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time.
- •The parking area can get a bit crowded, especially during peak season.
- •Some of the signage around the temple could be improved for non-Russian speakers.
- •The drive to Sakyusn-Sume can be a bit rough, especially during inclement weather.
- •The temple's gift shop could use some more variety in its offerings.
