- August 31, 2018
- Tips for tourists
- Yana Umyantseva
Chita is a settlement located in Eastern Siberia. The city got its name because it is located on the banks of the river of the same name. Its population, according to the latest data, is about 350 thousand people. Where should parents and children go in Chita? The answer to this question can be found by reading the article.
Where you can go in Chita with children: Odora Park
So, where can you have a great time with the whole family? Where can you go in Chita with children? Odora Park is a place that is definitely worth a visit. It is located in the city center, or rather, between Lenin and Chkalov streets. The park is open to visitors every day, open from 8:00 to 21:00.
What to do in Odora Park for parents with children? Little ones will be interested in swings and carousels. Teens will love the idea of going on rides. The park also has several sports grounds for active recreation enthusiasts.
A simple walk will also bring pleasure to the family. The park is very picturesque; original sculptures and openwork decorative gazebos create a magical atmosphere. It is also impossible not to pay attention to the samples of military equipment located on the territory of the park.
Attractions in the surrounding area
Lake Baikal
GPS coordinates: 53.5149078, 108.1054688
Ulan-Ude is located near the eastern coast of the lake: here Baikal is shallower than on other sides. In summer, the weather in the area is sunny, there are sandy beaches on the shore, recreation centers and hotels operate.
The road from Posolsky Sor to Chivyrkuisky Bay is considered one of the best for relaxing on Lake Baikal and exploring the sights.
You can read more about Baikal in these articles:
- Which Baikal resort to choose for a holiday with children?
- What attractions are there around Baikal and on Olkhon Island
- How and when to travel wild
Ivolginsky datsan “Khambyn Sume”
The first service in the largest datsan of Buryatia was held in 1945, by 1972 the main Cathedral Church was completely rebuilt. On the territory of “Khambyn Sume” there are:
- library;
- Buddhist University;
- souvenir rows;
- museum;
- sacred stupas;
- Green Tara is a stone that fulfills good wishes.
The main shrine of the datsan is the burial place of Dasha-Dorzho Itigelov, who predicted the onset of atheism and revolution.
In 1927, the head of Russian Buddhism fell into nirvana, but bequeathed to dig up his body after 70 years. The elder’s wish was fulfilled; decades later Itigelov retained the signs of a living person: no decay, a whole nose and eyeballs, movable joints, warm skin. No explanation has been found for the miracle; scientists put forward only hypotheses.
If you have not yet chosen where you will live and want to save money when booking, we recommend using the RoomGuru service. Firstly, it contains hotels, apartments and guest houses from many different booking systems, so you won’t miss out on a worthwhile option. Secondly, you can immediately compare prices for one place in different services and book where it is cheaper (this is not always Booking!).
Theater "Far Far Away"
Where to go in Chita with a child? The Far Away Kingdom Theater is an excellent choice. It is located on Verkholenskaya Street. Performances can be seen from Tuesday to Sunday, with performances starting at 10:00, 13:00 and 16:00.
The Far Away Kingdom Theater traces its history back to 1935. The building it occupies looks like a fairytale palace-teremok. For many years now, the theater has been delighting young spectators with colorful performances. The plots of colorful productions are borrowed from fairy tales, legends, and myths.
Titovskaya Sopka
This is an ancient volcano of Mesozoic times, which has preserved many natural and historical monuments, with a maximum altitude of 945 m above sea level. The natural communities of Titovskaya Sopka, with their diversity, resemble in miniature the entire Transbaikalia. Historical monuments from different times have been found here - from the first “Chita people” of the Stone Age, who lived 35 thousand years ago, to the settlements of the Russian Cossacks - the founders of Chita.
Titovskaya Sopka is the location of more than thirty archaeological monuments of various types from the period from 60 thousand years to the Middle Ages. Among them, the ancient settlement of Sukhotino-4 stands out with the identified remains of dwellings and examples of Paleolithic art, Stone Age workshops, burials and rock paintings. According to legend, the guardian of the hill and its surroundings is Airalzhan Erdenet Khatan, and the “Goroo” ritual is held annually in her honor.
At the foot of the hill there is an Orthodox chapel of St. Alexander Nevsky with panoramic views of the city. Previously, there was a cross erected by the Decembrist Mikhail Lunin and a monument in honor of the stay of Tsarevich Nicholas, the future emperor of the Russian Empire, in Chita. On the Moscow highway, which goes around the north-eastern slope of the hill, there is a monument at the site of the execution of active participants in the revolutionary events in Chita in 1905-1906. (1905 Revolution Street).
Chita Zoo
Where to go in Chita with your family? Adults and children can enjoy a visit to the local zoo. It is located on Zhuravleva Street, open to visitors every day, open from 10:00 to 20:00.
The zoo was founded in 1994, and over the more than 20 years of its operation it has managed to gain popularity among tourists and the local population. It contains over 700 fauna representatives. Animals are brought here from different parts of the world. Zoo guests will be able to see lions, Far Eastern leopards, Amur tigers, wolves, badgers, raccoons and so on. The animals live in spacious enclosures and are kept in excellent conditions.
The zoo also has a terrarium inhabited by reptiles and amphibians.
Exhibition “Treasury of the Republic of Sakha”
Yakut diamonds are in great demand in our country. This city is deservedly considered the diamond capital of Russia. This can hardly be surprising, since it is on the territory of the Republic of Sakha that 90% of the most valuable minerals are mined.
Tourists who want to see the famous Yakut diamonds with their own eyes should definitely visit the exhibition “Treasury of the Republic of Sakha”. Other exhibits are also of interest: luxurious furs, mammoth tusks decorated with precious stones and metals, native gold. The exhibition is held at: Kirova, 12.
Museums
Where to go in Chita for those who like to combine relaxation with a cultural and educational program? Museums are unlikely to interest children, but older children can go there.
- The Transbaikal Local History Museum is located on Babushkina Street. Its visitors will be able to learn a lot of new and interesting things about the Far East, Siberia, and Transbaikalia. The exhibition includes several sections dedicated to different historical eras. Original Japanese painting, jewelry, Chinese porcelain - this is just a little of what can be seen here.
- The Geological Museum is also worth visiting. It is located on Gorky Street. A visit to this museum will allow you to see how generously nature has endowed the Trans-Baikal Territory. The exhibition contains over 20 thousand samples of various minerals. This list also includes rocks that contain silver, gold, and precious stones. Visitors will also be able to admire fossils belonging to ancient eras. It is impossible not to mention the creations of masters of decorative and applied arts, which are created from noble metals and semi-precious stones.
- The museum and exhibition center is located on Chkalova Street. It is definitely worth a visit for lovers of beauty. The exhibition includes several thousand works of art. Here you can see the creations of sculptors and painters of Transbaikalia. The works of primitive artists Zolotukhin, Ushakov, and Tyapkin deserve special mention.
Quests
Many people have heard about this type of entertainment as interactive quests in reality.
They can be briefly described as a scripted game program. Quest is one of the options where to go with children in Chita, because it is an interesting and unusual experience that allows you to break out of everyday life and feel like a hero of your favorite book, film or computer game.
There are many game scenarios. This could be an adventure in search of ancient pirate treasure, an archaeological expedition to the far corners of the Earth, a trip to Narnia, or something else from a huge number of options. As a rule, to participate you need to gather a group of 2-4 people, otherwise some tasks will be impossible to complete.
In Chita, he organizes quests. You can book a game and find out information about conditions and costs on the official website. On average, the price for such entertainment is 1500-3000 rubles.
Monuments
Where can you go in Chita besides this? The original monuments of the settlement are definitely worth seeing.
- The monument to Muravyov-Amursky is located at the intersection of Bogomyagkov and Nedorezov streets. This man deserved such an honor when he initiated the assignment of the status of the administrative center of the Trans-Baikal province to the settlement. For a long time, this outstanding statesman served as Governor-General of Eastern Siberia. The grand opening of the monument took place in 2014. The figure of Muravyov-Amursky is sculpted from bronze, its weight is over 2 tons. The sculpture is located on a cylindrical pedestal, the height of which is about 4 meters. The hero is dressed in a ceremonial uniform and holds a scroll in his hand.
- The monument to P. Beketov can be seen on Theater Square. This man is a pioneer who devoted his entire life to studying the lands of the Far East and Siberia. The grand opening of the monument took place in 2008. The figure of the famous Cossack centurion is made of bronze. Beketov is dressed in a caftan, and the barrel of a gun can be seen from behind his back. The hero's iron will and unbending character are evidenced by his impeccable posture.
- The sculpture “Love and Loyalty” is located on the territory of the park of the same name. This colorful monument to feelings was inaugurated in the spring of 2011. The sculptural composition is cast from bronze. She portrays a courageous officer who knelt before the object of his passion. At the behest of the sculptor, the lovers are dressed in 19th-century outfits.
In the footsteps of the great Genghis Khan
The personality of the great commander and conqueror Genghis Khan is covered in legends. A unique person who left a bright mark on history may have been born on Transbaikal soil. Researchers are increasingly leaning towards this version, citing irrefutable evidence. It is assumed that his place of birth was the upper reaches of the Onon River, not far from the modern settlement of Nizhny Tsasuchey. Dust from the Horde's hooves rose over the Agin steppes, obscuring the sun. And the bright day became a dark night - that great army of the conqueror marched forward... We can now see this picture only in films, but unique coevals of those times are still intact - the “Genghis Stone” - an epigraphic monument of the Mongol times, the Wall of Genghis Khan, the Gate of Genghis Khan, Chalice of Genghis Khan. You too can see them, touch them, and be imbued with the energy of a great man!
Botanical Garden
Where in Chita can adults and children go for a walk? The Botanical Garden is located on General Belik Street. This park was founded a year before the collapse of the USSR. Currently its area is about 27 hectares.
Over 1,500 species of various plants grow in the garden. Some of them are local, while others are brought from different parts of the world. One cannot fail to note the beautiful design of the park. Paths, benches, lanterns - all conditions for family recreation are created.
Must see
Whether you are traveling alone or with a group and a guide, you should definitely include in your route the following city sites that make it unique and inimitable. It is recommended to see in Chita:
Shumovsky Palace
It is not for nothing that this palace is called the stone flower of the Trans-Urals. It was built by five Shumov brothers, owners of gold mines. The Shumovs had the status of merchants of the second guild, so it is easy to imagine on what scale the palace was built. To develop a project for a grandiose structure, they hired local architect Georgiy Mososhvili. Later, in 1911, he received the Grand Prix Award for it in Paris. In the 30s of the last century, the building came into the possession of the NKVD, from here the chief Transbaikal security officer Khorkhorin and more than 11 thousand Russians were repressed, many of them were lost without a trace in the Gulag. Under Soviet rule, at different times the palace became the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the editorial office of a newspaper, or the military trade center.
Michael the Archangel Church or Church of the Decembrists
This temple is older than the city itself and is the oldest building on its territory. The wooden church was built in 1776, about fifty years before the Decembrists appeared here. At that time, the church was built next to the Chita fort. Now, however, he is no longer there. Later, in the 19th century, the temple was ennobled and acquired a stone foundation. Now there is a museum of the Decembrists, the exhibitions tell about the life of the exiles and their families. You can book interactive activities for children and teenagers or an educational tour of the surrounding area.
Temple of the Kazan Mother of God
This is the main cathedral, but in fact it is not at all ancient - it was built only in 2001, and it was consecrated in 2004. The main bell - and there are 13 in total - weighs 10 tons, it is the most powerful in the entire Trans-Urals. The church itself is very beautiful with its azure walls, snow-white decor and gilded domes. The weight of the largest is 25 tons, from the foundation to the highest point the height of the temple is 47 meters.
House of Officers
Here is the main museum dedicated to the battles and heroes of the Great Patriotic War. A variety of exhibits are exhibited in 6 halls - from tanks and military weapons to photographs of soldiers and their personal belongings. At the same time, you can learn about the battles in the Far Eastern territories; such exhibitions are not found in all metropolitan museums of similar themes. Next to the Officers' House there is a beautiful park where you can stroll and relax with the whole family.
Titovskaya Sopka
In reality it is an extinct volcano. A lot of valuable archaeological finds were discovered here, more than 30 in total, and on the slope of the hill there is another attraction - the Church of Alexander Nevsky. There is also an observation deck with a beautiful view.
Chita datsan
This is an iconic Buddhist temple, and at the same time it is active. The bright building attracts guests with its unusual appearance and architecture traditional for Buddhist religious buildings. Prayers are held here, the datsan is open to everyone who wants to listen to lectures on Buddhist culture and religion, and watch religious holidays.
Kazan Cathedral
Where to go in Chita for those interested in religious buildings? The Kazan Cathedral is located on Bautina Street. The main Orthodox church of the city was built relatively recently. The building embodies the features that are characteristic of the churches of Suzdal or Vladimir. The five-domed cathedral with a hipped bell tower looks majestic and elegant.
The list of the main attractions of the temple includes a luxurious carved iconostasis, decorated with gilding. It is also impossible not to mention the revered shrine - the ark with the relics of Varlaam of Chikoy.
Stone gods of Alkhanaya
Those who have at least once visited this unique place created by nature itself rightly believe that this is paradise on earth. An aura of mysticism reigns over Alkhanai. It seems that the gods themselves descended to earth and froze like stone statues, admiring people. Mountain ranges, healing springs, stunningly beautiful forests, the valley of wish fulfillment, the majestic “Gate Temple” and “Mother’s Cup” stun the traveler’s imagination. The very air of Alkhanaya is healing and filled with magic. It seems that even the stars are closer to the earth here and the sun shines brighter. Or maybe this is really so? We recommend checking it out!
Chita datsan
The Chita Datsan is a very colorful building, which people from different parts of our country come to admire. The building is located on Bogomyagkova Street. The datsan monastery dates back to 2010. Its grand opening delighted not only local Buddhists, but also city residents who profess other religions.
It is best to explore datsan as part of an excursion group. Visitors will be able to see a two-meter statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, as well as lion sculptures and hurde drums, traditional for Buddhist temples.
Selection of souvenirs
The most common gifts from Chita are various crafts and interior items made from birch bark. Well, if you have the financial means, then these are, of course, Siberian gems.
Birch bark products
According to local residents, the name of the city “chita” translates as “birch bark rug”. In some areas of Chita, they actually know how to extract and process this material in a special way. What do the craftsmen here do from birch bark? Mirrors are decorated, baskets, boxes, bracelets, combs and other accessories are made. All crafts are painted with national ornaments and are of the highest quality.
Deposits of colored stones
Eastern Siberia has long been famous for its gems. Even the names of the stones sound fabulous and caress the ear: charoites, lapis lazuli, jades, etc. Siberians know how to cut stone, and from under their incisors come into the world incredibly beautiful jewelry that is in demand not only in Russia, but also far beyond it. outside. A huge variety of stone products can be found in almost any jewelry store in the city.
Museum and Exhibition Center of the Trans-Baikal Territory.
This center was formed primarily thanks to one exhibition that was held in the 80s. Visitors liked it so much that its best exhibits were soon exhibited in the new building. In 2009, a new round of development of the center came. It was then that he began his work fully. The exhibition brings together several areas, including jewelry, art of different nations, and so on.
Main Post Office building.
Another city landmark, when you see it you would never think that this is an ordinary administrative building. The structure was erected in the late 1800s. A savings bank and a consumer society were also located here. Following him, they also opened a library. It was from this place that the first telephone line was installed. Even now this luxurious building is used for its original purpose.
