Summary
The ancient Greeks may have the Olympics, but the Mongols have Naadam. Mongolia’s annual circus-like Naadam Festival is a centuries-old tradition that dates back to the era of the great Khans and their dynasties. Wrestling, archery and horse racing — the three skills that Genghis Khan considered essential for any Mongol warrior — are showcased at the country’s largest celebration of the “three manly sports”. On this 15-day adventure, go behind the scenes and meet the competitors in the lead up to the festival and discover some of Mongolia’s wild outback, visiting ruined monasteries, flaming cliffs and historic cities.
Short Itinerary / Route
- Day 1
- Ulaanbaatar
- Day 2
- Archery & Wrestling Training Camp
- Day 3
- Horse Training Camp
- Day 4
- Baga Gazriin Chuluu
- Day 5
- Tsagaan Suvarga
- Day 6
- Yol Valley
- Day 7-8
- Khongoriin Sand Dunes
- Day 9
- Bayanzag Flaming Cliff
- Day 10
- Ongiin Khiid
- Day 11
- Karakorum
- Day 12
- Ulaanbaatar
- Day 13
- Naadam Festival-Opening Ceremony & Archery Events
- Day 14
- Naadam Festival-Wrestling & Horse Racing Events
- Day 15
- Ulaanbaatar
Travel Cities (4): Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, Karakorum, Tsagaan Suvarga, Ulaanbaatar