Chitinsky Datsan, Buddhist monastery in Chita, Russia.
Chitinsky Datsan is a Buddhist monastery in eastern Siberia that blends traditional Buddhist design with local Russian building methods. The complex consists of multiple structures arranged around a central courtyard, creating a distinct religious compound within the urban setting.
A Buddhist temple stood in Chita about a century ago but was destroyed during the revolution, leaving the city without one until 2001. That May, a site for a new datsan was consecrated; construction began in 2002. The completed complex was consecrated in August 2010 with a Ramnai ceremony and formally opened on 15 August 2010, attended by the XXIV Pandito Khambo Lama D. B. Ayusheev and Governor R. F. Geniatulin.
The Tibetan name Damba Braybungling means "place where the rice of Buddha's teaching is gathered". Daily rituals honour the sakhyusans, protective deities of the teaching, and hurals mark major events in Buddhist history. From 30 January to 15 February 2011 the datsan held its first cycle of Sagalgan New Year hurals.
The site is easily accessible by public transport from central Chita, as the monastery is located within the city limits. Hotels and other lodging options are available nearby for visitors staying in the area.
The Tibetan name Damba Braybungling means "place where the rice of Buddha's teaching is gathered". The opening on 15 August 2010 began with a rabnai consecration prayer at 9 a.m., and horse-racing and wrestling games of Eryn Gurban Naadan were held at the Chita hippodrome at 3 p.m.
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