NAADAM FESTIVAL AND THE GOBI DESERT OF MONGOLIA
Mongolia is a country of cultural and natural wonders, where its people practice their ancient traditions and cherish the Mother Nature every day. And the Naadam Festival is the biggest celebration of the Mongols, which the nation has been celebrating since time immemorial. It’s said that nomadic tribes gathered to test whose tribe had the best wrestlers, finest archers, and fastest horses; and the winners were acclaimed extensively. Naadam, hence, was named “Three Manly Games of the Mongols”, nevertheless women also can participate in archery and horse racing. During the Great Mongol Empire time, Naadam was also an important event for the Golden Horde as the Mongol princes held the Khuraldai (assembly) at the same time.
Since 1921, the Mongols started celebrating Naadam in July to commemorate the People’s Revolution of Mongolia, and the State Naadam in Ulaanbaatar is on 11-12 July, and provincial and regional Naadams take place on 8-15 July usually (depending on the summer & pasture). Now the festival is celebrated nationwide in Mongolia and is a public holiday. And Naadam-goers and competitors from far and near wear their best traditional costumes and head out to Naadam – all happy. Plus, there’s lots of music and dances to complete the jolly atmosphere.
On this exciting 8-day tour you won’t only attend the local Naadam Festival but also will visit the highlights of the Gobi Desert. You will admire the sunrise over the Bayanzag Flaming Cliffs, enjoy a short camel ride at the Khongor sand dunes & oasis, and walk the glacial Yoliin Am Gorge during your stay in the Gobi.
Besides, Mongolia is the home of hearty nomadic people, whose lifestyle has not changed a lot since the days of Genghis Khan and his empire. You might have heard many stories of travelers being dazed by the sincere hospitality of the nomads. However, if you look deeper into their spirit, you will witness how strong, stern nomadic men can be moved to tears by their racehorses rushing to a finish line. Their lifestyle, religion, and philosophy are shaped by Mother Nature to a great degree; and nomadic customs, music, literature, and costumes have been passed through centuries. And in this hectic 21st century only Mongolian nomads welcome strangers with unlocked doors. There will be plenty of occasions you will meet real nomadic people and enjoy their heart-warming hospitality during the journey.
Premium Travel Mongolia tour guides are knowledgeable, experienced, and happy to be the ambassadors of their country. Plus, traveling extensively in remote Mongolia and discovering the wonders doesn’t mean rough travel conditions. We utilize comfortable 4×4 vehicles with AC, and clean and comfy Ger camps (en-suite upgrade available) to complete your wonderful Mongolia stay with us.