| Duration: | 3 Day(s) - 2 Night(s) |
| Tour Category: | Festival Tours |
The Pulse of the Steppe: Experiencing the Mongolia Naadam Festival
Known locally as Eriin Gurvan Naadam—the "Three Games of Men"—the Naadam Festival is the ultimate expression of Mongolian identity, history, and nomadic pride. Held annually in July, primarily from the 11th to the 13th, this UNESCO-recognized heritage event transforms the country into a vibrant arena of ancient sports and traditional celebration.
The Three Games of Men. The festival centers on three traditional competitions: wrestling, horse racing, and archery. Unlike Western sports, Naadam is deeply rooted in the military history of the Mongol Empire.
Wrestling: The most popular event, featuring hundreds of men in traditional zodog (open-fronted vests) competing in a single-elimination tournament. There are no weight classes and no time limits; a wrestler loses if any part of their body other than the feet touches the ground.
Horse Racing: This is a test of endurance rather than just speed. The races take place over the open steppe, covering distances of 15 to 30 kilometers. Most notably, the jockeys are children, often as young as seven, showcasing the incredible horsemanship that is instilled from birth in nomadic culture.
Archery: Both men and women compete in this precision sport, shooting at "sur" (leather cylinders) from distances of up to 75 meters.
A Cultural Extravaganza Beyond the stadium, Naadam is a feast for the senses. Spectators dress in their finest deels (traditional silk robes), and the air is filled with the scent of huushuur (savory deep-fried meat pastries). The opening ceremony in Ulaanbaatar is a grand spectacle involving the Nine White Banners of Genghis Khan, traditional "Khomeii" throat singing, and elaborate dance performances.
Whether you attend the grand National Naadam in the capital or a more intimate village festival in the countryside, Naadam is a powerful reminder that the spirit of the great Khans lives on in the modern Mongolian heart.
Itinerary:
Day 1: July 10. Naadam Festival Preview
Meet in Ulaanbaatar. You will go out with your guide to see the preview of the Naadam Festival. You will visit the horse-racing arena to watch a race of foals and archery, “Shagai” shooters. You can enjoy a national folklore performance. Overnight in the hotel. (L+D)
Tour cost:
Please Contact Us.
Group size: 2-16 people.
Day 2: July 11. The Ceremony of the Naadam Festival
Today you will watch the inauguration ceremony of Naadam, which is opened by the president of Mongolia, before attending the horse races taking place outside the city center. Overnight in the hotel. (B+L+D)
Day 3: July 12. City Tour and the Second Day of Naadam
After breakfast at the hotel, there will be an excursion to the Zaisan Hill War Memorial to get your bearings with a panoramic view of the whole city. Watch the second day of Naadam, including wrestling, archery, and traditional games. End trip. (B+L)
Services Included in the Cost:
Twin-bedded rooms in a four-star hotel, guiding and interpreting service, all meals in Ulaanbaatar, transfers by vehicle 4x4, all entrance fees,
Services Not Included in the Cost:
International airfare, personal equipment, optional activity cost, alcoholic drinks, travel Insurance, single room supplement, tips to guide and driver.
