Day Schedule

➤Breakfast

➤Naadam Festival, Day 1

➤Lunch

➤Return to Ulaanbaatar

➤Dinner and free time. Overnight at Ulaanbaatar hotel

Today is the opening day of the Naadam Festival. After having breakfast we will see the delightful opening ceremony of the Naadam Festival.

This vibrant celebration truly embodies the spirit of Mongolia, showcasing its rich culture and traditions. The festival, often referred to as the "Three Manly Games," features wrestling, horse racing, and archery, highlighting the skills and strength of its athletes. As herders and city dwellers come together, the atmosphere is filled with excitement and camaraderie. The colorful traditional attire, the sounds of cheering crowds, and the thrill of competition create an unforgettable experience. Naadam is not just about the sports; it's a time for community bonding, where people barter goods, share stories, and enjoy traditional music and dance. It’s a beautiful reminder of Mongolia's heritage and the unity of its people. Whether you're participating or spectating, the joy and pride in celebrating this national holiday are palpable. Enjoy the festivities! We will see some wrestling, and after that visit to anklebone shooting and archery competitions, which will be held just outside of main stadium.

Wrestling at the Naadam Festival is a spectacle that embodies strength, skill, and tradition, drawing immense crowds to witness the fierce competition. The format, featuring 512 wrestlers, creates a dynamic atmosphere, as participants engage in a series of matches that test their physical prowess and strategic thinking.

Lunch at Naadam Stadium, traditional Naadam Khuushuur (fried dumplings followed by test famous Airag) and drive to Khui Doloo Khudag to attend horse racing.

Horse racing is indeed one of the most thrilling and celebrated events during the Naadam Festival, showcasing not only the speed and endurance of the horses but also the deep bond between the horses and their riders, often young jockeys from local herding families.

The distances for each age group reflect the varying capabilities and strengths of the horses, with older horses typically racing longer distances. The sheer number of participants, often ranging from 200 to 600 horses in a single race, creates an exhilarating atmosphere filled with excitement and anticipation.

As the races commence, spectators gather to cheer on their favorites, creating a vibrant backdrop of color and energy. The winning horses are celebrated in a special ceremony that highlights the importance of tradition and respect in Mongolian culture. The awarding of mare's milk (airag), a khadag (the ceremonial blue scarf symbolizing respect), and medals to the top five horses is a meaningful recognition of their achievement.

Come back to Ulaanbaatar, transfer to your hotel. Dinner and free time. Overnight hotel.