Mongolia Naadam Festival Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go.

The Naadam Festival is Mongolia’s most celebrated cultural event—a vibrant display of nomadic heritage, athletic skill, and national pride. Known as the “Three Manly Games,” Naadam features wrestling, horse racing, and archery, drawing visitors from around the world each summer.

If you’re planning to experience Mongolia’s biggest festival, this guide covers history, events, travel tips, and the best places to attend.

What Is the Naadam Festival?

Naadam is Mongolia’s national festival, held every year from July 11–13. It celebrates Mongolia’s independence and centuries-old nomadic traditions. While festivals occur across the country, the largest and most famous celebration takes place in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city.

The festival combines sport, culture, music, costumes, and ceremonies—making it one of Asia’s most unique travel experiences.

The Three Manly Games

1. Mongolian Wrestling (Bökh)

Wrestling is the most prestigious Naadam sport. There are no weight classes, and hundreds of wrestlers compete in knockout rounds.

Highlights:

• Traditional open-chest costumes

• Eagle dance before matches

• Titles awarded to champions

• Matches held in the central stadium

2. Horse Racing

Horse racing reflects Mongolia’s deep nomadic roots. Races take place across long степpe distances rather than tracks.

Key facts:

• Distances: 15–30 km

• Child jockeys (ages 5–13)

• Thousands of horses compete

• Held outside the city on open grasslands

3. Archery

Archery showcases precision and tradition, with both men and women competing.

What to expect:

• Traditional bows and arrows

• Colorful deels (national clothing)

• Team cheering rituals

• Cultural performances nearby

Opening Ceremony in Ulaanbaatar

The Naadam opening ceremony is a grand spectacle featuring:

• Military parades

• Traditional dancers

• Musicians & throat singing

• Equestrian shows

• Historical reenactments

It’s often compared to an Olympic-style cultural show.

Where to Experience Naadam

1. Ulaanbaatar Naadam

• Largest and most formal

• Big stadium ceremonies

• Best for first-time visitors

2. Provincial (Aimag) Naadam

• Less crowded

• More authentic feel

• Great for photography

3. Rural / Village Naadam

• Very local experience

• Close interaction with nomads

• Ideal for cultural immersion

When to Travel for Naadam

• Festival dates: July 11–13

• Best arrival: July 9–10

• Combine with tours:

  • Gobi Desert

  • Central Mongolia

  • Khuvsgul Lake

  • Altai Mountains

July is also one of Mongolia’s best weather months.

Travel Tips for Naadam Visitors

Book early – Flights and hotels sell out fastBuy tickets in advance – Especially opening ceremonyWear sun protection – Long outdoor hoursBring cash – For local food & souvenirsRespect traditions – Ask before photographing people

Why You Should Experience Naadam

• Mongolia’s biggest cultural event

• Rare nomadic sports traditions

• Colorful costumes & ceremonies

• Incredible photography moments

• Deep connection to Mongolian heritage

Final Thoughts

The Naadam Festival is more than a sporting event—it’s a celebration of Mongolia’s identity, history, and nomadic spirit. Whether you watch wrestling in Ulaanbaatar, horse racing on the open степpe, or archery in a rural village, Naadam offers an unforgettable cultural journey.