Things One Ought To Know Before Attending The Mongolian Naadam Festival

By Ann Patterson


Every year in July, Mongolia receives a great number of visitors from all over the world. According to research, Mongolian Naadam Festival has been highlighted to attract both local and international tourists. Naadam is known to be a festival that portrays and expresses the nomadic culture of the Mongolians. It is among the most honored celebration which combines arts and sports. The following are interesting facts one needs to know before preparing for a trip to attend the festival.

There are Olympic games which Mongolians participate in at this period. The games expose the culture of Mongolians in a great way. It is a two or three-day event which starts on eleventh to thirteenth July. The major events are held in stadiums in the capital, which includes central stadium and Khul Doloon stadiums. One can also choose to travel to the local areas to celebrate with the locals.

It is necessary to note that there are two main men games held. Horse-racing, archery and men-wrestling. However, there are other games which include arts, tactics and tricks who you will still enjoy watching. Ethic and cultural performances like singing, dancing, wearing traditional costumes. Also, the Mongolians revere some parts of livestock bones when playing and for religious rites.

The Mongolian national wrestling is known to be a combination of traditional and cultural elements of eagle dance as well as long songs. The practice has thousands of years of historical development in the country. About one thousand wrestlers are expected to compete in the tournaments. They should have strong discipline, respectful to both the elders and the audience.

The use of horses has for a long time been part of Mongolians. From earlier times, they believe that their nation was born on the horseback. Every kid grows to learn how to ride a horse. They practice riding horses at very young ages. During the ceremony, children sing special songs before the races start and after the competitions to charge the spirits.

There is Mongolian archery which includes competition on the use of bows and arrows. In the earlier times, Mongolians were using bow and arrows to hunt before there was the introduction of better weapons which were used in battles. To preserve their culture, they engage females, males and children archers who exercise their concentration, focus, strength and patience.

When you are a visitor, and it is your first time to attend the ceremony, the local Naadam festival is very attractive. Reason being, it is authentic, not dramatic and allows one to experience first-hand information from the locals. Local people travel to the provinces to participate in the festivals, to sell food, and toys. Therefore, making sure everyone interests are catered for in all ways.

When thinking of travelling to Mongolia, there is a need for making early arrangements. You should book for accommodation in the hotel of your choice early enough before the peak seasons in July. Early booking will allow you to pay less amount of money as well as getting the best accommodation. Moreover, you can consider booking for the ticket and hotel six months early enough.




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