Ivolginsky Datsan
Russia's first Buddhist temple, Ivolginsky Datsan, is a vibrant spiritual and cultural center in Buryatia, famed for Lama Itigilov's incorruptible bod...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Full temple access
Ivolginsky Datsan
Best Time
Full temple access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Russia's first Buddhist temple, Ivolginsky Datsan, is a vibrant spiritual and cultural center in Buryatia, famed for Lama Itigilov's incorruptible body.
"A mysterious yet calm place, really beautiful and full of relief."
🚗 Car is Key
Rent a car or arrange transport from Ulan-Ude; it's the most convenient way to reach the Datsan.
⏰ Respect Closing Times
Temples close after 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to see interiors.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 2,560 reviews
Type
Place of Worship
Website
ivolgdatsan.ruHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Incorruptible Body of Lama Itigilov
Main temple
Witness the astonishing, undecayed body of Pandito Khambo Lama Itigilov, a profound mystery for scientists.
Architectural Marvels
Temple complex
Explore a vibrant complex of colorful Buddhist temples, stupas, and residential buildings, showcasing traditional Buryat architecture.
Spiritual Atmosphere
Temple grounds
Immerse yourself in a serene and peaceful environment, a significant center for Buddhist traditions in Russia.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is Key
Rent a car or arrange transport from Ulan-Ude; it's the most convenient way to reach the Datsan.
⏰ Respect Closing Times
Temples close after 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to see interiors.
📸 No Photos Inside
Photography is prohibited inside the main temple where Lama Itigilov's body is displayed.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Dress respectfully when visiting this sacred Buddhist site.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is Key
Rent a car or arrange transport from Ulan-Ude; it's the most convenient way to reach the Datsan.
⏰ Respect Closing Times
Temples close after 6 PM, so plan your visit accordingly to see interiors.
📸 No Photos Inside
Photography is prohibited inside the main temple where Lama Itigilov's body is displayed.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Dress respectfully when visiting this sacred Buddhist site.
🍲 Try Local Food
Enjoy traditional Buryat cuisine at eateries near the Datsan.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Ivolginsky Datsan for its stunning architecture, serene atmosphere, and the profound mystery of Lama Itigilov's incorruptible body. The journey from Ulan-Ude is considered worthwhile, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience. Some note that interiors close by 6 PM, limiting full exploration if arriving late.
"Beautiful temples to see. There are too many of them to completely enjoy it.
It will take some time to go there but it will be worse and you will have plenty of parking spots.
After 18:00, you can still go but you will not be able to access inside the temples."
Mathieu Labro
"Buddhists from all over the world flock to Ivolginsky datsan near Ulan-Ude in Buryatia to meet a shrine of particular significance: an incorruptible body of Dashi-Dorzho Itigilov.
Pandito Khambo (the senior) Lama lived here a hundred years ago. In 1927, feeling an imminent death, Itigilov gathered his disciples, bequeathed to check his grave every 25 years, then sat in lotus position and began to meditate. Exactly in that condition lama's body had been placed in a cedar box, which subsequently was discovered no sooner than in 2002.
"Lama Itigilov is almost like a living person, - my local guide, a junior monk, was commenting while I was standing in front of the miracle - it feels like he departed a couple of days ago: there have been no signs of decomposition, even his hair has not changed!" No photos are allowed inside, however every visitor can see HIM at an arm's length through the "glass sarcophagus". Here's my personal impression: sitting Pandito Khambo Lama's body is extremely shriveled, the skin is of dark brown colour, nevertheless, it definitely doesn't look like a corpse of someone who passed away about a century ago.
Although the organism itself is considered to be dead: body temperature is only twenty degrees, specialists from the Russian Center for Forensic Medicine confirmed, that Itigilov's hair in its properties is identical to that of a living thing.
A state of trance, that lasts for several centuries, or so called "the phenomenon of postmortem meditation" - is a Tibetan practice, when Buddhist monks' bodies, frozen forever in lotus position, do not decompose. Apparently, it also takes much longer for their brain to die.
Still it is a huge mystery for the scientists. Two decades of researching haven't yet led to a somewhat satisfying explanation of how this can be possible. Moreover, "monastic mummies" exist in other countries."
Nataliia Karamnova
"Accessing this place can be daunting as the only way is to travel by car from Ulan-Ude, but it is well worth the trip. Knowledgeable guides give tours regularly, and the view of the steppe is breathtaking."
Lance
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most practical way to reach Ivolginsky Datsan is by car from Ulan-Ude. The drive takes approximately 30-40 minutes and offers scenic views of the Buryatian steppe. While public transport is limited, some travelers opt for taxis or pre-arranged tours.
While challenging, it's not impossible. You might be able to hire a taxi for a round trip from Ulan-Ude, or inquire about local tour operators who include the Datsan in their itineraries.
There are plenty of parking spots available at the Ivolginsky Datsan, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Generally, the area around Ivolginsky Datsan is considered safe for tourists. Standard travel precautions are advised, but there are no widespread safety concerns reported regarding animals, diseases, or crime.
Yes, Ivolginsky Datsan is a popular stop for those traveling the Trans-Siberian Railway who wish to explore the cultural richness of Buryatia. It's often visited from Ulan-Ude.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the grounds of Ivolginsky Datsan is generally free. However, there might be specific areas or events that require tickets or donations.
The temple grounds are accessible after 6 PM, but the interiors of the temples close at this time. For full access to all areas, it's best to visit during daylight hours.
Yes, visitors can see the incorruptible body of Lama Itigilov through a 'glass sarcophagus' inside the main temple.
While the grounds are free to enter, donations are appreciated to support the upkeep of the monastery and its activities.
Knowledgeable guides, often junior monks, are available to give tours and explain the significance of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the main temple where Lama Itigilov's body is displayed. However, you can take photos of the exterior architecture and the surrounding grounds.
Be mindful of the sacred nature of the site. While exterior photography is generally allowed, it's always respectful to ask if unsure, especially if monks are present.
The colorful temple exteriors, the intricate details of the architecture, and the panoramic views of the steppe offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Similar to photography, filming inside the main temple is not permitted. Exterior filming is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
There are no specific mentions of drone photography rules, but it's advisable to check local regulations and be extremely cautious not to disturb the peace or privacy of the monks and visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are traditional food establishments located next to the Datsan where you can sample Buryat cuisine.
You can expect to find authentic Buryat dishes, offering a taste of the local culinary traditions.
While not explicitly stated, it's common for such religious sites to have small kiosks or shops selling refreshments and souvenirs.
Picnicking is generally acceptable in designated areas of public spaces, but it's always good practice to be tidy and respectful of the religious site.
Buryat cuisine often features dairy and meat, but it's worth inquiring about vegetarian options, as many dishes can be adapted.
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