The article is devoted to the study of the role of the Buddhist factor in the formation of the mentality and spiritual culture of the Kalmyk ethnos. The authors note that Buddhism was the dominant factor in the formation of the mentality and spiritual culture of Kalmyks. The assertion among the Kalmyks of the yellow-capped direction of the Tibetan tradition of Buddhism gave a tremendous impetus to the development of ethnic culture, contributed to the emergence of national writing and literature, temple architecture, icon painting, the spread of Tibetan medicine, etc. Buddhism contributed to a fundamental change in the cultural code, bringing to the culture of the Kalmyks high ethical norms and values, a deep and unique philosophy of life. Buddhism has become a fundamental factor in the ethnic identity of the Kalmyks, who, having migrated from Dzungaria, have fallen into a multicultural and non-confessional environment. Buddhist tolerance for other confessions and cultures contributed to the formation of good neighborly relations with the surrounding nations, which traditionally professed Christianity and Islam. The spread of Buddhism among the Kalmyks promoted the advancement of the woman, the growth of her social and legal status.
