Naadam is Mongolia’s major holiday and a wonderful time to experience the culture and people of this amazing land. It is the most colorful and largest festival event in the country; traditionally it is also known as the “Three Manly Sports”, which include archery, wrestling and horse racing. In this age of equality, women are able to participate in the archery. The festival is registered with UNESCO as an Intangible Heritage.

Held across Mongolia on 11-13 July each summer, the Naadam Festival is, originated many centuries ago as a test of courage, strength, daring, horsemanship and marksmanship – all necessary attributes for a nomadic people and warriors. The largest celebration is held in Ulaanbaatar beginning on July 11, featuring marches and music from soldiers, monks, and athletes before the real fun begins! In the Naadam Stadium, the three sporting passions of Mongolians, horse racing, wrestling, and archery, are played out over 2 days. But the festival continues nationwide through July.

This year, the Naadam Festival coincided with the 210th anniversary of the founding of Murun – now the administrative centre of Khuvsgul Province. For the first time ever, this local Naadam will open in the evening with a light show. For people wishing to visit Murun, and then, perhaps, go on to the province’s famous lake, the opening ceremony will be held on 26 July at 9.00 p.m.

During the festival, visitors can see the ‘Speed of Khotgoid’ – horse racing from the Khangai region; there will also be wresting, archery and knucklebone competitions.