This city is the capital of the Buryat Republic and the centre of Buddhism in Russia and has an intriguing mix of Asian and European styles. Lying among rolling hills it was a major stop for caravans carrying tea from China and still has a very pleasant feel today.

As well as several museums, an opera house and a cathedral the city also has the largest bust of Lenin anywhere in the world. Visit the Ivolginsk Datsan Monastery and for rail enthusiasts it is possible to arrange a trip to the local locomotive works.