A male sumo wrestler with arms outstretched, wearing traditional sumo attire and a red jacket, standing in a wrestling arena with spectators in the background.
Two children riding horses on a grassy plain, with others in the distance, one child holding a stick, all wearing yellow vests.
A group of performers dressed as traditional archers in a cultural dance, holding bows and arrows, on a green field.
People in traditional costumes participating in a cultural parade, including women with red hats and men with helmets, with a decorated ox in the foreground.
A large outdoor festival or event on a grassy hillside with tents, a stage, crowd, and distant rolling hills under a clear sky.
Two individuals dressed in traditional Central Asian attire, performing music outdoors among a crowd of onlookers.

Naadam Festival Cultural Tour

5 Days / 4 Nights

For a solo tour = $1,050 per person
For a couple tour = $840 per person
For a group tour of 3-4 = $620 per person
For a group tour of 5-8 = $550 per person

For tour customization, feel free to contact and book a call with us by clicking on the button below:

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The Naadam Festival tour is a concentrated burst of Mongolian culture, timed to coincide with the nation’s most sacred and spectacular celebration. This 4-day journey places you at the epicenter of the "Three Manly Games"—wrestling, horse racing, and archery—which have defined the nomadic spirit for centuries. From the thundering hooves of the cross-country races at Hui Doloon Khudag to the silent precision of the ankle-bone shooters, you will experience a festival that is not merely a sporting event, but a profound declaration of Mongolian independence and identity.

Beyond the electric atmosphere of the capital’s stadiums, this tour offers a quick escape into the majestic landscapes that inspired the Mongol Empire. You will stand at the feet of the world’s tallest equestrian statue, a gleaming stainless steel tribute to Chinggis Khaan, before retreating into the alpine scenery of Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. This itinerary is designed for those who want to witness the peak of Mongolian pageantry and the scale of its history in a single, unforgettable long weekend, balancing the intensity of the festival with the quiet and humble ger camp.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT

  • Attend the iconic Naadam Festival celebrations

  • Witness traditional Mongolian wrestling, horse racing, and archery

  • Learn the cultural and historical significance of Naadam

  • Explore surrounding cultural and nomadic regions

  • Travel with knowledgeable local guides

  • Small-group or private tour options available

DIFFULTY LEVEL

A black and white illustration of a mongolian horse
A black and white illustration of a mongolian shaman chanting
A black and white illustration of a mongolian traditional buddhist temple
A black and white illustration of a mongolian camel

ACTIVITIES

Itinerary

    • Morning: Arrival in Ulaanbaatar and private transfer to your hotel. After checking in, head to the National Archery Field to witness the preview rounds of archery, where men and women in traditional deel aim at leather targets with ancient precision.

    • Afternoon: Visit the Ankle-Bone Shooting (Shagai) pavilion. This UNESCO-listed sport involves flicking sheep bones at a target with incredible accuracy. The atmosphere is thick with traditional "praise songs" sung by the teams to maintain rhythm and focus.

    • Evening: Enjoy a pre-festival dinner at a local restaurant. The city is buzzing with anticipation as nomadic families arrive from across the country in their finest traditional clothing.

    • Stay: Hotel

    • Distance: ~60 km

    • Morning: Head to the National Stadium for the Opening Ceremony. Witness the arrival of the Nine White Banners, escorted by the State Honor Guard on horseback. This is a breathtaking display of military precision, music, and dance that tells the story of the Mongol Empire.

    • Afternoon: The "Three Manly Games" begin in earnest. Watch the first rounds of National Wrestling, where 512 wrestlers compete in a single-elimination tournament, and observe the high-stakes archery finals.

    • Evening: Explore the festival "fairgrounds" surrounding the stadium. Sample traditional Khuushuur (deep-fried meat pastries) and enjoy the city-wide celebrations under the night sky.

    • Stay: Hotel

    • Distance: ~15 km (City transfers)

    • Morning: Drive out of the city to the Hui Doloon Khudag horse racing fields. Unlike Western racing, these are 15-30km cross-country marathons across the open steppe, featuring child jockeys who represent the true horse culture of Mongolia.

    • Afternoon: Stand at the finish line to witness the raw emotion as the winning horses and riders arrive, often greeted by the President of Mongolia. Immerse yourself in the "Fairground" atmosphere, where nomadic families set up colorful tents to celebrate.

    • Evening: Return to Ulaanbaatar for a quiet dinner. The contrast between the dusty, wild energy of the races and the city's evening lights is a highlight of the day.

    • Stay: Hotel

    • Distance: ~100 km (Round trip)

    • Morning: Escape the city and drive east to visit the Chinggis Khaan Statue Complex. Take the elevator to the head of the 40-meter tall statue for a panoramic view of the Tsonjin Boldog plains where the Great Khan supposedly found his golden whip.

    • Afternoon: Continue into Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Visit the famous Turtle Rock formation and hike up to the Aryapala Meditation Temple, which offers a peaceful sanctuary overlooking the alpine valley.

    • Evening: Check into a luxury ger camp nestled among the granite mountains. Enjoy a final farewell dinner of Khorkhog (traditional barbecue cooked with hot stones) under a canopy of stars.

    • Stay: Ger camp

    • Distance: ~120 km

Extra Information

  • Reservation & Deposit

    • Deposit: To secure a spot on on this tour, a 50% non-refundable deposit of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking.

    • Final Payment: The remaining 50% balance must be paid in full at least 14 days before the tour start date. For last-minute bookings (within 30 days of departure), full payment is required immediately.

    • Payment Methods: We accept bank transfers (SWIFT/Wise) and Paypal.

    2. Travel Insurance (Mandatory)

    Mongolia is a land of adventure, and the nomadic lifestyle involves remote areas. Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for all participants. * Coverage: Your policy must cover emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal injury.

    • Adventure Activities: Ensure your insurance specifically covers horseback riding, as some standard policies exclude this.

    • Proof of Insurance: We require a digital copy of your insurance certificate before the tour begins.

    3. Cancellation & Refunds

    We understand that plans change. Our refund policy for the remaining balance is as follows:

    • 31+ days before departure: 100% of the balance is refunded (minus the non-refundable deposit).

    • 15–30 days before departure: 50% of the total tour cost is refunded.

    • Less than 14 days before departure: No refund is available.

    4. Nomadic Stay Etiquette & Logistics

    • Facilities: Living with a nomadic family is a raw, authentic experience. Please note that guest Gers usually use traditional "pit latrines" and have limited electricity (solar-powered for lights).

    • Health & Diet: Please inform us of any allergies or dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian) at least 14 days in advance. Nomadic diets are heavily meat and dairy-based.

    • Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of arrival in Mongolia.

  • 1. Festival & City Wear

    • The "Neat" Outfit: Naadam is a point of national pride. While tourists aren't expected to wear traditional deels, wearing "smart-casual" clothing (neat trousers and a collared shirt or a modest dress) for the Opening Ceremony is a sign of respect.

    • Lightweight Fabrics: Linen and cotton are your best friends in the stadium heat. Light colors reflect the sun better.

    • Sun Protection Layer: A very thin, long-sleeved shirt or "sun-hoodie" to protect your skin during the long hours sitting in the stadium or at the horse racing fields.

    • Rain Gear: July is Mongolia’s rainy season. Pack a high-quality, packable rain poncho or lightweight jacket. Umbrellas are difficult to use in stadium crowds.

    2. Footwear

    • Walking Sneakers: You will do a significant amount of walking between the archery fields, the stadium, and the festival grounds. Ensure they are breathable.

    • Light Hiking Shoes: Essential for the Terelj National Park segment, especially for the hike up to Aryapala Temple and around Turtle Rock.

    • Sandals: Comfortable for city walking in the evening.

    3. Naadam Festival "Survival" Essentials

    • Binoculars: These are a must-have. They allow you to see the details of the wrestlers’ techniques in the stadium and the distant dust clouds of the horses approaching the finish line at Hui Doloon Khudag.

    • Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: Essential for hygiene when eating "festival food." You will undoubtedly be eating Khuushuur (fried meat pastries) with your hands at the fairgrounds.

    • Dust Protection: A Buff or light scarf is vital for Day 3 at the horse racing fields. When thousands of horses and vehicles move across the steppe, the dust can be intense.

    • Small Daypack: To carry your water, rain jacket, and camera throughout the long festival days.

    4. Protection & Health

    • High-SPF Sunscreen & Lip Balm: The UV index in Mongolia in July is extremely high (often 8+). Reapply often.

    • Polarized Sunglasses & Wide-Brimmed Hat: A hat with a chin strap is best, as the steppe can be windy.

    • Tissues/Small Toilet Paper: Public facilities at the horse racing fields can be basic; it’s best to have your own supply.

    • Insect Repellent: Necessary for the evening in Terelj National Park, as mosquitoes are common near the river and trees in July.

    5. Electronics

    • High-Capacity Power Bank: Between the long Opening Ceremony and the trip to the racing fields, you will be away from an outlet for 10–12 hours.

    • Extra Memory Cards: You will take more photos on Day 2 (Opening Ceremony) than almost any other day of the trip.

    • Camera Lens Cloth: To clean off the fine dust from the horse racing fields.

  • Mongolian nomads are world-famous for their hospitality, but their homes are considered sacred spaces. Following these simple customs will show your hosts that you respect their way of life.

    Entering the Ger

    • The Threshold: Never step on the wooden threshold of the door; it is considered the "neck" of the home. Always step over it with your right foot first.

    • Don’t Knock: Traditionally, Mongolians don't knock. Instead, call out "Nokhoi khor" (literally: "hold the dog") to announce your arrival.

    • The Support Pillars: Never lean against or walk between the two central support pillars. These represent the stability of the family and the connection between heaven and earth.

    • Direction: Once inside, move in a clockwise direction. Guests are typically seated on the left (west) side of the Ger.

    Food & Drink Rituals

    • The "Taste Test": If you are offered milk tea or a snack, always accept it with your right hand. Even if you aren't hungry, take a small sip or a tiny bite before putting it down. Refusing outright is considered impolite.

    • Right Hand Only: Always give and receive items (especially food, tea, or gifts) with your right hand. For extra respect, support your right elbow with your left hand.

    • Fire is Sacred: Never throw trash, water, or food scraps into the central stove. Fire is the most sacred element of the home.

    General "Dos and Don'ts"

    • Feet Placement: When sitting, never point the soles of your feet toward the altar (at the back of the Ger) or toward other people. It’s best to sit cross-legged or tuck your feet under you.

    • Hats: Mongolians value the head as the most sacred part of the body. Never touch another person’s hat, and if you take yours off, place it in a high spot (like on a bed or a shelf) rather than on the floor.

    • Step on a Foot: If you accidentally step on someone's foot, immediately shake their hand. It’s the local way of saying "I didn't mean any harm."

    • Whistling: Avoid whistling inside the Ger; locals believe it "calls the wind" or brings bad luck to the household.