Naadam Festival – Mongolia’s Greatest National Celebration

Govi

Every July, Mongolia comes alive with the sounds of cheering crowds, galloping horses, traditional music, and colorful costumes during the Naadam Festival—the country’s largest and most beloved national celebration. Often called “Eriin Gurvan Naadam” (The Three Manly Games), this iconic festival showcases Mongolia’s ancient traditions, nomadic culture, and national pride. Naadam is more than just a festival—it is a living heritage that connects modern Mongolia with its 2,000-year-old history.

The Three Manly Games of Naadam

Naadam features three traditional sports that date back to the time of the Mongol Empire. These sports reflect nomadic life, warrior skills, and centuries-old national values.


🤼 1. Mongolian Wrestling (Bökh)

Strength, respect, and ancient tradition

Mongolian wrestling is the most prestigious Naadam event.

What makes it unique:

  • No time limit
  • No weight classes
  • A wrestler loses only when any part of his body except feet touches the ground
  • Wrestlers wear traditional zodog-shuudag (open-chest costume)

Champions earn titles like Arslan (Lion) and Avarga (Titan), respected throughout the nation.


🐎 2. Horse Racing

Speed, endurance, and the spirit of the steppe

Naadam horse racing is unlike modern racetrack events. Races take place on open steppe over distances of 15–30 km, and jockeys are often children aged 5–13 years, chosen for their light weight and skill.

Why it’s special:

  • Horses compete in age categories
  • Riders sing traditional long songs to encourage horses
  • Horses are celebrated as champions, not jockeys

Thousands gather to watch dust clouds rise as racing horses thunder across the grasslands.


🏹 3. Archery

Precision, teamwork, and ancient warrior skills

Men and women both compete in archery using traditional Mongolian bows made of wood, horn, and sinew.

Key features:

  • Archers shoot at leather surs targets
  • Judges announce hits with ritual sounds
  • Costumes reflect ancient warrior and noble styles

Archery represents Mongolia’s deep historical connection to hunting and warfare.


🎭 Opening Ceremony – A Spectacle of Culture

Naadam officially begins on July 11, with a grand and colorful opening ceremony at the National Stadium in Ulaanbaatar.

Highlights include:

  • Horsemen carrying the national nine white banners
  • Traditional musical performances
  • Folk dances and throat singing
  • Parade of athletes and judges
  • Reenactments of Mongol army processions

It is one of the most beautiful cultural performances in Mongolia.


🎉 Local Naadams Across the Country

While the Ulaanbaatar Naadam is the largest, local Naadams in provinces and villages offer a more intimate and traditional atmosphere.

Why travelers love local Naadams:

  • Closer to the action
  • More authentic nomadic atmosphere
  • Easier to meet wrestlers, archers, and horse trainers
  • Photographers can capture raw, unscripted moments

Many travelers combine the main Naadam with a small provincial Naadam for the full experience.


🍲 Naadam Food & Festive Atmosphere

During the festival, locals enjoy:

  • Khuushuur (fried meat pastries)
  • Airag (fermented mare’s milk)
  • Buuz (steamed dumplings)
  • Traditional snacks

Crowds celebrate, families gather, and vendors sell handmade crafts, traditional clothes, and souvenirs.


🧭 How to Attend the Naadam Festival

Main Naadam (Ulaanbaatar)

  • Date: July 11–13 every year
  • Main events at National Stadium + Khui Doloon Khudag (horse races)

Tickets

  • Must be purchased early (often sell out months in advance)
  • VIP and tourist tickets available

Local Naadams

Held throughout July across all provinces.


📸 Best Photography Moments

  • Opening ceremony dancers
  • Wrestlers preparing backstage
  • Eagle banners and cavalry processions
  • Horses sprinting over the steppe
  • Children jockey portraits
  • Traditional archers in colorful clothing

Naadam is one of Mongolia’s most photogenic cultural events.


💡 Tips for Travelers

  • Book accommodation early—July is peak season
  • Bring sunscreen and hat for outdoor sports
  • Attend both Ulaanbaatar and a small provincial Naadam if possible
  • Try khuushuur! It’s the festival’s signature food
  • Be respectful around horses and riders

🌟 Why Naadam Belongs on Your Mongolia Itinerary

Mongolia’s most important national celebration
Ancient traditions of wrestling, archery, and horse racing
Incredible cultural performances
Vivid costumes, music, and ceremonies
An experience that connects you with Mongolian history

Naadam is more than a festival—it is the heartbeat of the Mongolian people, celebrating strength, bravery, culture, and unity.

 

 

Testimonial

What Client Say About Us

Maria Doe

Traveller

Exceptional Northern Mongolia Experience with Lunas Tours Our journey through Northern Mongolia was truly unforgettable thanks to 'Lunas Tours'. Traveling through the Khuvsgul region, Darkhad Valley, and remote northern landscapes, we experienced pristine nature, rich nomadic culture, and deep local traditions that few tours can offer. The tour was extremely well-organized, with careful planning for long distances, changing weather, and remote conditions. We especially appreciated the authentic experiences—staying with local families, learning about reindeer herders’ lifestyles, and enjoying the peaceful beauty of Mongolia’s northern taiga. The team’s strong local knowledge, cultural sensitivity, and respect for nature made the journey both safe and meaningful. This was not just sightseeing, but a true cultural and natural immersion. We highly recommend 'Lunas Tours' to travelers who want to explore Northern Mongolia in a responsible, authentic, and well-guided way.

img

Micheal and Debby from Nederland

Traveller

Outstanding service by Guide Luna & Driver Eba – Lunas Tours Our trip in Mongolia was exceptional thanks to our guide Luna and driver Eba. Luna was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and caring. She explained Mongolia’s history, culture, and traditions with passion and clarity, and always made sure everyone felt comfortable and well-informed throughout the journey. Driver Eba was equally impressive. His driving was safe, smooth, and reliable even on challenging roads and long distances. He handled every situation calmly and professionally, making us feel secure at all times. Together, Luna and Eba worked as a perfect team. Their coordination, friendliness, and attention to detail turned our trip into a truly memorable experience. We highly recommend them to anyone traveling in Mongolia with Lunas Tours.

img

Sarah

Australian traveler

Amazing experience with Lunas Tours – Mongolia Our journey with Lunas Tours was truly unforgettable. From the very beginning, everything was well-organized, flexible, and thoughtfully planned. The team showed deep knowledge of Mongolia’s culture, history, and nature, and they always made sure we felt safe and comfortable. What we appreciated most was Lunas Tours’ personalized approach and support for local communities. Staying with local families, experiencing authentic food, and exploring Mongolia’s breathtaking landscapes made this trip very special. We highly recommend Lunas Tours to anyone who wants a genuine, meaningful, and well-guided travel experience in Mongolia. 🐎

img

John

American traveller

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Lunas Tours gave us an authentic and unforgettable Mongolian experience! Professional guides, great organization, and strong support for local communities. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Mongolia.

img

Vaiopoulos Nikos

Greece Traveller

Luna Khaliunaa Mongolian Guide provide for me and my company one of the best travel experience we ever had. Mongolia was awesome thanks to her! Ever consider visit Mongolia Lunas' Tours should be your only choice.

img

Garry's family

Canadian family

Perfect family tour with Guide Luna & Driver Eba Our family had a wonderful experience traveling in Mongolia with Lunas Tours in winter - 2025, especially thanks to our guide Luna and driver Eba. Luna was incredibly kind, patient, and attentive to our children. She explained Mongolian culture and history in a way that was easy and interesting for both adults and kids, making the journey educational and fun. Driver Eba made us feel completely safe throughout the trip. His careful driving, calm attitude, and readiness to help at any moment gave us great peace of mind, especially while traveling with children and luggage. Thanks to Luna and Eba, our family felt comfortable, well-cared-for, and truly welcomed. This was not just a tour, but a meaningful family memory. We highly recommend Lunas Tours for families visiting Mongolia.

img

Minje & Dunhe

Korean family

함께한 완벽한 가족 여행 저희 가족은 루나스 투어(Lunas Tours)와 함께한 몽골 여행에서 정말 잊지 못할 시간을 보냈습니다. 특히 가이드 루나 와 드라이버 에바 덕분에 아이들과 함께하는 여행이 더욱 편안하고 안전했습니다. 가이드 루나는 아이들에게도 이해하기 쉬운 방식으로 몽골의 역사와 문화를 설명해 주었고, 항상 친절하고 세심하게 가족을 배려해 주었습니다. 여행 내내 아이들의 상태를 살펴주며 부모 입장에서 큰 안심이 되었습니다. 드라이버 에바는 장거리 이동과 험한 도로에서도 항상 안전하고 차분하게 운전해 주었으며, 가족 여행객에게 꼭 필요한 안정감을 주었습니다. 루나와 에바의 완벽한 팀워크 덕분에 이번 여행은 단순한 관광이 아니라 가족 모두에게 소중한 추억이 되었습니다. 몽골로 가족 여행을 계획하신다면 루나스 투어를 진심으로 추천합니다.

img

Adrian Lee

Singaporeans

Our trip to Mongolia with Lunas Tours was an absolutely unforgettable experience. Traveling through the heart of Central Mongolia — from the breathtaking Orkhon Valley to the remote beauty of the Eight Lakes (Naiman Nuur) — gave us a true glimpse into the soul of this vast and peaceful land. Special thanks to our amazing guide Luna, whose deep knowledge, kindness, and professionalism made the journey smooth and meaningful, and to our skilled driver Eba, who safely navigated the mountain passes and rugged trails with calm confidence. The Orkhon Valley, with its wide open grasslands, wild horses, and traditional herder families, was a highlight — we felt connected to Mongolian history and nomadic culture. The horseback trip to the Eight Lakes was truly magical, surrounded by pine forests, sparkling lakes, and the peaceful sound of nature. Visiting Erdene Zuu Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, was another memorable experience. The blend of ancient architecture and the serene spiritual atmosphere made it a powerful reminder of Mongolia’s rich history and culture. Finally, the hike up to Tuvkhun Monastery, perched high in the Khangai mountains, was both peaceful and inspiring. The view from the top was breathtaking, and it gave us a sense of tranquility that words cannot describe. We are deeply grateful to Luna and Eba for taking such good care of us throughout the journey — from comfortable accommodations to delicious meals and flexible travel arrangements. Their warm hospitality made us feel like family. Thank you, Lunas Tours, for organizing such a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and nature. We will definitely recommend your company to friends and family in Singapore who are seeking an authentic Mongolian experience. – On behalf of travelers from Singapore

img
shape
shape
shape
shape
shape