Naadam Festival Mongolia: A Traveler’s Guide to Mongolia’s Biggest Celebration
- Jan 16
- 2 min read
Updated: 20 hours ago
Naadam is a traditional Mongolian festival that dates back hundreds of years. It celebrates Mongolia’s independence, strength, and nomadic heritage. At the heart of the festival are the famous “Three Manly Games”:
Wrestling
Horse Racing
Archery
But Naadam is not just about sports. It is a vibrant cultural celebration filled with music, traditional clothing, local cuisine, and colorful ceremonies that bring communities together across the country.
The main Naadam Festival takes place every year from July 11 to July 13 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. This is the largest and most spectacular celebration, featuring a grand opening ceremony, parades, and national competitions.
However, smaller local Naadam festivals are also held across the country throughout July, especially in rural provinces. Many travelers prefer these countryside festivals for a more authentic and less crowded experience, where you can connect closely with local families and traditions.
The Three Manly Games Explained
1. Mongolian Wrestling
Wrestling is the most popular sport at Naadam. Known locally as Bökh, it has no weight classes, and matches continue until one wrestler touches the ground with any part of the body other than the feet.
Wrestlers wear colorful traditional outfits and perform an eagle dance before each match, symbolizing strength and pride.
2. Horse Racing
Unlike modern racetracks, Mongolian horse races take place across the open steppe. Races can range from 15 to 30 kilometers, and the jockeys are often children.
The sight of hundreds of horses racing across the vast grasslands is breathtaking and reflects the deep bond between Mongolians and their horses—a connection shaped by centuries of nomadic life.
3. Archery
Archery competitions are calm but intense. Both men and women compete using traditional bows, aiming at small targets from long distances.
Archers wear beautiful traditional clothing and are encouraged with rhythmic chants from teammates and spectators, creating a unique and ceremonial atmosphere.
During Naadam, Mongolia truly comes alive:
People proudly wear traditional deel clothing
Streets fill with music, dancing, and parades
You can taste traditional foods like khuushuur (fried dumplings), buuz, and airag (fermented mare’s milk)
Families gather, celebrate, and warmly welcome visitors
Many travelers say Naadam feels like stepping back in time—into the living history of Mongolia.
Travel Tips for Visiting Naadam
Book early: Hotels and tours fill up quickly in July
Arrive a few days early to adjust and explore Ulaanbaatar
Dress comfortably and prepare for hot days and cool evenings
Respect local traditions, especially during ceremonies
Consider visiting a countryside Naadam for a more intimate experience
Naadam Festival Mongolia: A Traveler’s Guide to Mongolia’s Biggest Celebration
Naadam is the perfect introduction to Mongolia. It showcases the country’s pride, resilience, and nomadic heritage in a powerful and colorful way.
Whether you are passionate about culture, history, photography, or adventure travel, the Naadam Festival offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that truly captures the heart of Mongolia.
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