Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Plan Your Trip
Naadam
Mongolia's penchant for war games comes to a head each summer on the
vast grasslands, where competitors show off their skills in wrestling, arch-
ery and horse racing. The annual Naadam Festival is the much-anticip-
ated culmination of these events, and it's a colourful spectacle enjoyed by
locals and tourists alike.
Need to Know
Best Places to See a Naadam
While most tourists see Naadam in Ulaanbaatar (
Click here
)
, the most authentic fest-
ivals are in the countryside. Khatgal, near Lake Khövsgöl, has naadams on 11-12
July and a second 'mini naadam' on 11 August (
Click here
).
Best Party During Naadam
Around 9pm on 11 July, half of Ulaanbaatar piles into Chinggis Khaan Sq for the
biggest party of the year. Light shows, fireworks, music and family fun.
Traditional Food at Naadam
The favourite treat at naadam is
khuushuur
(mutton pancakes) and everyone lines up
at food stalls to get a stack. Expect to pay T700 to T1000 per
khuushuur
. As for
beverages, don't miss trying some fresh
airag
(fermented mare's milk).
Going Online
Dan Golan's excellent blog (
tomongolia.blogspot.co.il
) is a great resource with dates
for countryside naadams and a schedule of events for the Ulaanbaatar Naadam.
The Events
The Horse Races
Mongolians hold a special place in their hearts for horse racing, and naadam is the best
time of year to watch this sport.
