Nadam (Nadaam) festivals:
In Ulan Bator, the Naadam festival takes place from the 11th to the 13th. July, and is Mongolia’s biggest folk festival, culminating in the big horse race on the third day.
On the first day is the grand opening ceremony with dances and the President’s speech as well as part of the introductory wrestling competitions as well as the archery competitions. These are classical warrior disciplines that date back to the time of Genghis Khan.
One of the big attractions is the big horse races, which are held 45 min. drive from Ulanbataar on the Hui Doloon steppes. It is reminiscent of a giant folk festival with countless food stalls and a pure festival atmosphere. There are tens of thousands of Mongols for the biggest and most important races, where the 4-5 annual horses ride 25 km at full gallop.
Especially the five-year-old horses are coveted and it is incredible to follow the Mongolian riders, where some ride the 25 km. at full gallop without saddle and stirrups, but just a minimalist halter.
As a spectator, you only see the run, the last 2-400 meters and then the finish area, but it is certainly a great – and quite dusty experience. However, the traffic to and from the Nadam horse race is a chapter in itself, leave it to the driver and do not look at the clock.
In addition, there is a folk festival and something close to a mini-Olympiad with the traditional Mongolian wrestling and other sports.
Mongolia under Nadam can only be highly recommended.
Important notes on Mongolia travel during the Nadam festival
The biggest attraction in Mongolia is without a doubt the Nadaam festival. And here everything is often sold out many months in advance. Prices have risen sharply, which is why one must expect a narrow space situation. Hear more about the possibilities of visiting Mongolia during the Nadaam Festival.
Further information on Mongolia travel
Mongolia – visa and entry
Mongolia has a visa requirement, but it is easy to get a visa to Mongolia
Money:
Mongolia’s currency is called Tugrik and at the time of writing 1,000 is approximately DKK 3.5.
There is an ATM in UB, but largely not outside. However, there is relatively little cash to be used along the way, mostly for a few drinks and possibly souvenirs.
USD is most common, EUR alternatively. Remember small notes.
Electricity:
200 volts with European plugs, so an adapter is not needed. In some Ger camps you can only recharge in the dining tent.
Food:
You do not have to go to Mongolia to seek out gourmet food, but it is solid and quite good. Traditionally, the Mongols eat incredible amounts of meat, but as travelers we were served salad and vegetables.
a Mongolian cuisine is quite lightly spiced, but so perfectly fine in its simplicity.
There are no major problems with hygiene or stomach problems, but as always you should use alcohol gel and only drink bottled water.
Travel season Mongolia:
The weather in Mongolia is potentially always harsh, which is why you should always bring clothes for a Danish autumn holiday, even if the summer can even be very hot.
May-June and late August to September, mid-season: The
weather is changeable and cool morning and evening. There are very few travelers and offer great opportunities, but one must be dressed in changeable and at times cold weather.
July and August, high season (as well as Naadam time) The weather is stable and warm with up to 25-27 degrees during the day and cool nights. Very comfortable, but as always in Mongolia you should wear windproof clothes – and good with sunscreen.
The Nadaam festival in July means that you have to book very early to get a place – preferably 7-8 months before.
October to early May, low season:
Mongolia has some of the harshest winters on the planet. Not recommended.
Language:
In general, the Mongols speak quite poorly or no English at all, which is why a skilled English-speaking guide even makes tremendously good sense.
In addition, a good and safe driver, who of course is also always on Tourist’s Mongolia travels.
Russian is widespread throughout Mongolia and in the westernmost regions, Kazakh.
