Elista Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, activities, food and drinks, accommodations, local culture, and transportation options to Elista, Russia's only Buddhist-majority city.


If you’re an adventurous traveler looking for a unique destination that is still unexplored by the masses, Elista, Russia, ought to be on your bucket list. As the capital of Kalmykia, a semi-autonomous region located in Southern Russia, Elista is Russia’s only Buddhist-majority city and has a fascinating mix of Russian and Mongolian cultures. This charming city that was previously off the tourist radar is now a rising star, thanks to its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and unique experiences. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before visiting Elista and make sure you don’t miss any must-visit sights during your trip.

Introduction to Elista

Elista is a small city of around 100,000 people, located in the heart of Kalmykia, about 1100 km south of Moscow. The city was founded in 1865 as a fortress during the Russian expansion into the Caucasus and was intended to hold off Mongol invaders. Over the centuries, the city has been part of the Golden Horde, Mongol Empire, and the Russian Empire. Today, Elista has a unique character, combining Mongolian, Russian, and Buddhist influences. One of the most exciting things about Elista is that it’s still relatively unknown to tourists, which means it’s much less crowded than other European destinations, even during peak season.

List of Places to Visit in Elista

Elista has a good mix of culturally important attractions and natural wonders. Here’s a list of some of the top sights to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Buddha Shakyamuni Golden Temple: This Buddhist temple is a must-visit attraction in Elista. It is the largest Buddhist temple in Europe, housing a 12-meter tall statue of Buddha Shakyamuni that can be seen from miles away. The temple is embellished with decorative tiles, bright colors, and intricate patterns, making it a visual feast for the eyes. Visitors are welcomed to look around the temple and attend various spiritual practices.
  • Kalmyk Museum of Local Lore: Elista’s history and cultural heritage are on display at the Kalmyk Museum of Local Lore. The museum has an excellent collection of artifacts and documents related to Kalmykia’s past, including everyday items, weapons, and traditional clothing. Visitors can learn more about Kalmykia’s nomadic culture and Russian influence on the region.
  • Chess City: As the only official chess city in the world, Elista hosts international chess tournaments and is home to the Chess Museum. Here, you can see rare collections of antique chess sets and learn the history of chess in Russia and the world.

Natural Attractions of Elista: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lotus Valley: This natural wonder is a must-visit attraction in Elista. Each summer, the valley is covered with colorful lotus flowers that blossom and attract thousands of visitors. Visitors can enjoy walks along the lake, take a boat ride, or relax in one of the many makeshift cafes that pop up during the season.
  • AstroPark: If you’re a fan of stargazing, the AstroPark is the perfect place to visit in Elista. This observatory offers public tours and telescope viewing of the stars and planets, making it a fascinating destination for any astronomy enthusiast.
  • Volga Delta: Take a trip to the Volga Delta, located 130 km south of Elista, where the Volga River meets the Caspian Sea. The delta is a unique natural attraction and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, thanks to its diverse ecosystem, including hundreds of species of birds and fish.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elista

Elista is the perfect destination for hikers and bikers, thanks to its diverse landscape. Here are some of the best routes you can take:

  • Lotus Valley Loop: This easy hike around the Lotus Valley lake offers beautiful views of the lotus flowers in bloom.
  • Borsoy Gorge Hike: This intermediate hike offers stunning views of the Kalmykia steppe and the Borsoy River. The hike is challenging but rewarding, and you will also see unique wildlife along the trail.
  • Elista Biking Tour: Rent a bike and explore the city’s landmarks on a self-guided tour. Don’t miss the chance to bike along the Chess City Boulevard, lined with statues of famous chess players.

Best Things to Do in Elista: Activities and Tours

Elista offers a plethora of unique experiences that you won’t find anywhere else! Here are some suggestions to add to your itinerary:

  • Traditional Kalmyk Wrestling: Try the traditional Kalmyk wrestling, which is similar to Mongolian wrestling, but with some unique rules.
  • Learn Archery with Kalmyk Nomads: Join a tour with a local nomad family, who will teach you how to shoot arrows like a pro.
  • Horseback Riding: Take a horseback ride across the vast Kalmykia steppe, and learn about Kalmyk nomadic culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elista

Here’s a week-long itinerary to discover the best of Elista:

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Elista; Explore the city center, visit the Chess City and the Kalmyk Museum of Local Lore
2 Visit the Buddha Shakyamuni Golden Temple; Hike or bike around the Lotus Valley
3 Take a trip to the Volga Delta; enjoy the unique natural scenery
4 Explore the Borsoy Gorge; try traditional Kalmyk wrestling
5 Go horseback riding with a local nomad family
6 Take a day trip to Stavropol Krai, about 200 km from Elista
7 Depart from Elista

Food and Drink Scene of Elista

Elista has a unique mix of Russian, Mongolian, and Kalmyk cuisines, and you can try some delicious dishes and drinks during your stay. Here are some must-try options:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buuzy: These steamed dumplings are a quintessential Mongolian/Kalmyk dish. They are filled with meat, onions, and spices, and served with traditional sour cream.
  • Xangy: Xangy is a type of bread that is stuffed with meat, onions, and potatoes, and baked in a traditional clay oven.
  • Tea with Milk: Russians are famous for their love of tea, and Elista is no exception. Kalmyk tea usually has milk and sugar added to it, much to the delight of sweet teeth worldwide.

Local Beverages

  • Shubat: Shubat is a fermented camel milk-based drink, a common beverage in Kalmykia. This drink is a staple of the nomadic population, and it’s said to have many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and promoting healthy digestion.
  • Kalmyk Kvass: Kvass is a traditional Russian fermented beverage made from rye bread, and Kalmyk Kvass has a unique flavor, thanks to the addition of different herbs and spices, making it a refreshing drink on a hot summer day.

Where to Stay in Elista: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Elista offers accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers. The options range from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel-Amaks Park: The hotel has a great location, close to some of Elista’s key attractions. The hotel features comfortable rooms, an on-site sauna, and a restaurant that serves delicious Kalmyk and Russian cuisine.
  • Elista City Hostel: This budget hostel offers clean and cozy dorms and private rooms. The hostel has a friendly atmosphere and is ideal for solo travelers or groups of friends looking for affordable accommodation.

What to Buy in Elista: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Elista has many souvenir shops where you can find unique gifts to bring home. Here are some suggestions:

  • Buddha Statues: You can find beautiful Buddha statues in many of the souvenir shops in Elista. These statues come in different sizes and materials, making them a perfect memento to remember your visit.
  • Kalmyk Felt Crafts: Kalmykia is known for its felt crafts, which include blankets, slippers, and toys. Buying these crafts not only supports local businesses, but you’ll also add a cozy touch to your home’s decor.

Local Culture and Customs of Elista

Kalmykia’s culture is a mix of Russian and traditional Mongolian nomadic elements. Kalmyks are famous for their love of horseback riding, wrestling, and archery. It’s essential to respect their customs and traditions during your visit. Here are some cultural etiquette tips to keep in mind:

  • Dress conservatively: Kalmykia is a predominantly Buddhist region, and it’s important to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.
  • Remove your shoes before entering temples: It’s important to respect the Buddhist customs and remove shoes before entering the temples.
  • Respect local nomads: Kalmykia is home to many nomadic families, who are often happy to welcome visitors. It’s important to respect their way of life and customs.

Best Time to Visit Elista

The best time to visit Elista is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural attractions. However, if you’re looking for a more authentic experience, consider visiting during the winter months, which is less crowded and offers a unique opportunity to experience Kalmykia’s nomadic culture.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elista

When visiting Elista, there are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try local dishes and drinks: Elista has a unique culinary culture, and it’s essential to try some of the local delicacies.
  • Be respectful when visiting religious sites: When visiting Buddhist temples, it’s important to be respectful and follow the customs, such as removing shoes and dressing modestly.
  • Tip your tour guide or host: Tipping isn’t mandatory in Russia, but it’s appreciated, particularly in the hospitality industry.

Don’t:

  • Litter: It’s crucial to respect the environment and dispose of your waste correctly.
  • Ignore customs and traditions: Kalmykia has a unique culture, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Assume everyone speaks English: While English is widely spoken in touristy areas, it’s always a good idea to learn some basic Russian or Mongolian phrases.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elista

Elista is a safe city for tourists, and the crime rate is low. However, it’s always essential to take general precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and not leaving your belongings unattended.

Health in Elista

Elista has public and private medical facilities available to tourists. However, it’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance before embarking on your trip, as medical costs can be high.

Getting to Elista: Transportation Options and Logistics

Elista is well connected to other Russian cities by air and land transport. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Elista

The nearest airport to Elista is the Elista Airport. Flights to Elista operate from Moscow.

Bus Stations Near Elista

Elista has a bus station that connects to major cities in Russia. The station has both express and regular buses, and the tickets are reasonably priced.

Other Options

  • Train: Elista does not have a train station, but you can take a train to the nearest city, Astrakhan, and then take a bus or taxi to Elista.
  • Car rental/Taxi: Renting a car or taking a taxi is the best option if you want to explore the surrounding areas or have more flexibility in your travels.

How to Get Around in Elista

Elista is relatively small and easy to navigate on foot. However, if you prefer to use public transport, there are buses and minibusses that operate around the city. Taxis are also widely available and reasonably priced.

Where to Go Next from Elista: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kalmykia is a beautiful region with many destinations to explore. Here are some suggestions for nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Stavropol Krai: Stavropol Krai is a nearby region with many natural attractions, including hot springs and mineral baths.
  • Astrakhan: The nearest largest city to Elista, Astrakhan, is home to the world-famous Astrakhan Kremlin and Volga River.

Conclusion

Elista, Russia, is a unique destination that offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural attractions, and unique experiences. As the only Buddhist-majority city in Russia, Elista has a unique character that blends Mongolian, Russian, and Buddhist influences. This comprehensive guide has covered everything you need to know before visiting Elista, including top attractions, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and transportation. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, biking, horseback riding, or stargazing, Elista has something for everyone. Pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore this fascinating destination.

The Monastery of Geden Sheddup Choikorling The Monastery of Geden Sheddup Choikorling