Aninsky datsan, Buddhist temple in Alan, Russia.
Aninsky datsan is a Buddhist monastery near Lake Baikal with white walls and golden roofs showing Tibetan and Mongolian building traditions. The structures are arranged in a traditional layout, with prayer halls, meditation rooms, and living quarters for monks.
The monastery emerged during Buddhism's expansion into Siberia and served for many years as a spiritual center for Buddhist learning. After a long closure period in the 20th century, it was later revived as a place of religious practice.
The temple draws believers and visitors who meditate or join prayer rituals in its spaces. Daily practice fills the place with a contemplative spirit that anyone can sense while walking through.
The site welcomes visitors daily, though early morning offers the best experience when monks chant and the air is calm. Guests should dress respectfully, wear sturdy shoes, and understand that some areas may be restricted to residents only.
Prayer wheels inscribed with thousands of mantras line the interior hallways and create rhythmic sounds as practitioners rotate them during their walks. These objects are central to daily spiritual practice and join physical movement with prayer.
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