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"Coaxing Ritual for Baby Camels" has been inscribed in the UNESCO List of Heritage. Hunting With Golden Eagles In Mongolia Moments From The Golden Eagle Festival In Mongolia The 7 Best Experiences in Mongolia Nomadic Naadam Festival Days are Coming...!!! Michelle Rodriguez in Mongolia for Golden Eagle Hunting Festival 10 Facts People Should Know About Mongolia by Grace Pilet Jacobsen Pride-Horse Race now registered in Guinness World Records FIRST EVER “ Photographers’ PHOTO TOUR” has completed successfully!
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src="/uploads/Sagsai_egale_hunters_bayan_olgii_aimag.jpg" /></p> <h3 style="font-style: italic;">Written from over twenty years of travel, photography, and collaboration with eagle hunting families in western Mongolia.</h3> <p>Long before eagle festivals became known internationally, the relationship between Kazakh eagle hunters and the Altai Mountains had already existed for generations.</p> <p>This culture was never created for tourism. It was shaped slowly through mountain life, winter survival, horses, hunting traditions, family responsibility, and the vast landscape of western Mongolia itself.</p> <p>The first time I watched an eagle hunter riding beneath the high Altai mountains with a golden eagle on his arm, something immediately felt natural about the scene — almost like seeing a fish return to water. The mountains, the horse, the eagle, and the rider did not feel separated from one another. They belonged together.</p> <p>Over the past twenty years working in tourism and photography across Mongolia, I came to understand that this feeling is also what attracts so many visitors to the Altai. People are not simply coming to see an eagle. They are trying to experience a living cultural world that still remains deeply connected to place, family, and landscape.</p> <p>I did not grow up inside this tradition myself. I was born in Zavkhan province in central Mongolia and come from a Khalkh Mongolian background. In many ways, I first encountered the eagle hunters as an outsider too — with curiosity and respect, much like the travelers who arrive in the Altai for the first time. Over the years, however, that curiosity gradually became a deeper understanding of how unique and fragile this cultural world truly is.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_Hunters_Mongolia_Eagle_training.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="585" data-section-id="1ultx4g" data-start="553">A Culture Shaped by the Altai</h2> <p>Not everyone becomes an eagle hunter.</p> <p>Among Kazakh families of the Altai, eagle hunting is not simply a hobby or performance. Knowledge is often passed from father to son, from older brother to younger brother, and between generations over long periods of time. The tradition carries patience, responsibility, and years of lived experience.</p> <p>The culture itself could only have emerged in a place like the Altai. Horses, open valleys, winter conditions, hunting traditions, and the rhythm of nomadic life all shaped the world in which eagle hunting survived. Even today, seeing an eagle hunter riding through the mountain valleys still feels inseparable from the landscape around him.</p> <p>An eagle itself is also far more than a symbol displayed during festivals.</p> <p>Keeping a golden eagle requires constant care, feeding, training, and attention throughout the year. During the warmer seasons, many eagles live outside. But in winter, the eagle often lives inside the family home itself, occupying its own place in the western-southern side of the ger or house.</p> <p>Caring for the bird becomes part of everyday family life. Children help feed and look after the eagle. Women clean the surrounding space and participate in its daily care. Over time, the eagle becomes part of the household itself.</p> <p>This is one reason why eagle hunting culture cannot be understood only through competitions or photographs alone. Behind every eagle hunter stands an entire family helping carry the tradition forward.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Old_Eagle_hunters-Mongolia-Sagsai-Mountain.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="613" data-section-id="1q1yn22" data-start="587">A Changing Modern World</h2> <p>Like many traditional ways of life around the world, the eagle hunter culture of the Altai is also changing.</p> <p>Several hunters from remote regions have spoken quietly about leaving the tradition behind — not because they stopped respecting it, but because keeping an eagle has become increasingly difficult. Feeding and caring for the birds requires time, money, and constant effort. Hunting opportunities have also changed over time as wildlife regulations, modern economic realities, and daily life in the Altai have gradually shifted.</p> <p>Families living far from tourism routes often face even greater challenges. Some hunters explained that they eventually had to focus more on raising livestock and supporting their families rather than continuing to keep eagles as previous generations once did.</p> <p>In the past, eagle hunting was closely tied to survival and winter hunting in the mountains. Today, the world surrounding the Altai hunters is no longer the same.</p> <p>Like many remote regions facing rapid modernization, the Altai is also changing quickly, bringing both new opportunities and new pressures for local communities.</p> <p>Yet the culture still remains alive.</p> <p>Not because it has stayed frozen in the past, but because families continue adapting while trying to protect what matters most.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai_young_eagle_hunter_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="645" data-section-id="1gjetbc" data-start="615">Why Gatherings Still Matter</h2> <p>For generations, eagle hunters gathered seasonally not only to compete, but also to meet one another, exchange knowledge, maintain relationships between families, and continue a shared cultural identity connected to the Altai.</p> <p>Modern eagle festivals grew naturally from this deeper tradition of gathering.</p> <p>Today, these gatherings remain important not only for visitors, but also for the hunters themselves. Preparing for the festival becomes part of the yearly rhythm of many eagle hunting families. It creates pride, motivation, and recognition within the community itself.</p> <p>The festivals are also larger than the competitions alone.</p> <p>Women present traditional handicrafts and handmade work. Children perform music and cultural programs. Young artists display drawings and paintings inspired by their homeland and heritage. Many of these children may become the next generation who continue carrying the culture forward in different ways.</p> <p>In this sense, the eagle festivals are not simply performances for tourists. They remain living community gatherings connected to the wider cultural world of the Altai.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Golden_eagle_festival_mongolia_womans_art.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="672" data-section-id="j0wo5h" data-start="647">Tourism and Continuity</h2> <p>Tourism alone cannot preserve culture.</p> <p>But when done respectfully, it can help traditions remain economically meaningful in a changing world.</p> <p>For some families today, introducing travelers to their eagles and way of life has become one of the few realistic ways to continue keeping the tradition alive while remaining in the Altai itself.</p> <p>For Mongolia’s tourism industry, the eagle festival season also arrives at an important time of year. Much of the country’s tourism remains concentrated between June and August. The eagle festivals of September and October create opportunities beyond the short summer season — not only for travelers, but also for remote western communities.</p> <p>Families build guest gers. Local drivers find work. Horse owners, craftsmen, musicians, cooks, and herding families all become part of the wider cultural economy surrounding the festivals.</p> <p>Today, new roads are reaching Sagsai. Small tourism camps are beginning to appear. Some eagle hunter families are preparing additional guest spaces beside their homes. These changes may seem small, but they represent something important: the possibility that local people can continue living with dignity while remaining connected to their own traditions.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunters_items_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="695" data-section-id="1iubqz3" data-start="674">The Role of Sagsai</h2> <p>For this reason, the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival has always meant more to us than a tourism event alone.</p> <p>Sagsai is not simply an administrative district. It is one of the cultural centers of Mongolia’s Kazakh eagle hunter world. Many of the country’s eagle hunting families continue living there, and we believed it was important for visitors to experience this culture closer to the communities where it still survives most strongly.</p> <p>Even the prizes given during the festival reflect a philosophy we have tried to protect.</p> <p>For many years, the festival’s top winners have been awarded horses rather than modern machinery or vehicles. This choice was intentional. We hope the image of the horse-mounted eagle hunter remains part of the Altai landscape for generations to come.</p> <p>The goal has never been to create mass tourism.</p> <p>The goal is to help people understand why this culture matters — not only to the Kazakh eagle hunters themselves, but also to Mongolia’s cultural identity and to the future of the Altai region.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Three_hunters_with_horses.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="715" data-section-id="j62i49" data-start="697">Looking Forward</h2> <p>Today, the golden eagle hunters of Mongolia stand at an important moment between continuity and change.</p> <p>Roads are arriving. The modern world is expanding. Younger generations are growing up differently from their grandparents.</p> <p>Yet in the mountains of the Altai, there are still mornings when an eagle hunter rides across open valleys beneath snow-covered peaks with his bird raised against the cold wind — a sight that still feels inseparable from the land itself.</p> <p>Preserving that relationship may become one of the quiet cultural responsibilities of our generation.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunters-Mongolia-Sagsai-Mountain.jpg" /></p> <p>Experience the Eagle Hunter Traditions of the Altai</p> <p>Explore our curated journeys into western Mongolia and experience the living culture of the Kazakh eagle hunters respectfully and responsibly through the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'golden_eagle_hunters_mongolia_Blog_news.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'golden_eagle_hunters_mongolia_Blog_news', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 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You will travel from the Gobi Desert to Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire. Along the way, you will visit the Khongor Sand Dunes, Flaming Cliffs, and Yol Valley, and experience the wide open landscapes of southern Mongolia. The journey then continues to Kharkhorin, where you will explore Erdene Zuu Monastery and learn about Mongolia’s history and culture. You will also visit local nomadic families and see how they live. In addition, you will visit Hustai National Park to see the rare wild horses (Takhi) in their natural environment. 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Set against the dramatic landscapes of the Altai Mountains, this remarkable gathering celebrates the ancient tradition of eagle hunting — a deep bond between hunter and golden eagle that has been passed down through generations.</p> <p>With its motto, <em>“Promoting the cultural heritage of humanity – the art of eagle falconry traditions</em>,” the festival is dedicated to preserving this extraordinary heritage while welcoming visitors to witness it in its authentic cultural setting.</p> <p>What makes the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival truly special is the experience beyond the competitions. Visitors can welcome Kazakh nomadic families as they arrive with their livestock during the<strong> seasonal migration</strong>, and even take part in assembling a Kazakh ger (yurt). These moments offer a rare chance to experience the living culture of Mongolia’s nomadic communities.</p> <p>The festival is also known as one of the most <strong>photography-friendly cultural events in Mongolia</strong>. As a company specialized in photography expeditions, <strong>Ayan Travel </strong>organizes the festival experience with photographers in mind. Guests have the opportunity to observe and photograph eagle hunters, golden eagles, and nomadic life from close range, moments that are rarely accessible at other festivals.</p> <p>Join our <strong>Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival Tour</strong> to experience the nomadic lifestyle and eagle-hunting culture while celebrating one of Mongolia’s most fascinating living traditions together with the local team behind the festival. </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Sagsai_eagle_festival_tour.jpg', 'file2' => 'Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_tours_mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Sagsai_eagle_festival_tour', 'alt_for_file2' => 'Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_tours_mongolia', 'days' => '5', 'price' => '1890', 'type' => 'tour', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 2 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia Photography Tour 2026', 'slug' => 'golden-eagle-festival-mongol-altai-mountains-photographic-expedition', 'body' => '<p data-end="508" data-start="270">This Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia photo tour is built for photographers who want more than just watching the festival. It focuses on real shooting time, better positioning, and working directly with eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains. The Golden Eagle Festival brings together Kazakh eagle hunters from across western Mongolia. Over two days, you can photograph fast action as eagles are released from mountain ridges, traditional horseback games, and strong portrait moments in natural light.</p> <p data-end="1060" data-start="770">Beyond the festival, the tour includes private shooting sessions with eagle hunters in Sagsai and around Tolbo Lake. These sessions give you more control over light, background, and composition — ideal for portraits, horseback scenes, and storytelling images without the pressure of crowds. This is a small group photography tour designed around field conditions. We plan for early morning and late afternoon shooting, work with natural light, and allow enough time in each location to build a strong and varied portfolio.</p> ', 'excerpt' => '<table bgcolor="#F5F5F5" border="0" bordercolor="#111111" cellpadding="6" cellspacing="0" id="AutoNumber1" style="font-family: Tahoma; border-collapse: collapse;" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 11px;" valign="top" width="50%"><b>Services included in the cost:</b><br /> <br /> Accommodation: Hotel***,* ger camp, tented camp <br /> Guiding and interpreting service <br /> Full board meals <br /> Domestic flights <br /> Transport: vehicle 4x4 or minivan<br /> Entrance fees to protected areas and national parks<br /> Museums and cultural performance<br /> Horses Camping equipments</td> <td style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-size: 11px;" valign="top" width="50%"><b>Services not included in the cost:</b><br /> <br /> International airfare <br /> Personal equipments <br /> Optional activity cost <br /> Excess baggage charges<br /> Single room supplement <br /> Alcoholic drinks <br /> Sleeping bag <br /> Travel Insurance</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> ', 'file1' => 'eagle-festival-photo-tour-mongolia-ayan-travel.jpg', 'file2' => 'Mongolia-golden-eagle-festival-photography.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'eagle-festival-photo-tour-mongolia-ayan-travel', 'alt_for_file2' => 'Mongolia-golden-eagle-festival-photography', 'days' => '7', 'price' => '2490', 'type' => 'tour', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 3 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Short Tour to Golden Eagle Festival 2026', 'slug' => 'mongolia-short-tours-golden-eagle-festival-join', 'body' => '<p>The Golden Eagle Festival is one of the traditional cultural heritage and all visitors can experience while traveling in Mongolia. During the two-day festival, you have the chance to get thousands of amazing images of trained Eagles. The evening before the Golden Eagle Hunting Festival the small community offers competitors, many of whom have traveled as far as 140 miles on horseback, a special performance of Kazakh dance, song, and music-and we are invited!</p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Golden-eagle-festival-mongolia-short-tour.jpg', 'file2' => 'short-tour-to-golden-eagle-festival-mongolia-ayan-travel.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Golden-eagle-festival-mongolia-short-tour', 'alt_for_file2' => 'short-tour-to-golden-eagle-festival-mongolia-ayan-travel', 'days' => '4', 'price' => '1640', 'type' => 'tour', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 4 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Mongolian Blue Trail to Spiritual Shaman Tour', 'slug' => 'mongolian-blue-trail-to-spiritual-shaman-tour', 'body' => '<p style="text-align: justify;">Shamanism is the oldest religious practice in Mongolia and centers on beliefs and rituals associated with a shaman, a man, or a woman regarded as having access to the “spirit world”.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Shamanism is faith without books. All teaching and instruction have been given orally, passed from shaman to shaman over the centuries, and its traditions learned by heart. Mongolian shamans enter an ecstatic trance state in which the shaman is empowered to engage with the spirits I order to protect and heal members of the community, to guide souls, and cure illnesses.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The shaman might wear a headdress to resemble a bird, with the tail of a pheasant and the body costume of a fish. Drums are used to help the shaman enter the trance-like state, as chanting begins and the shaman “transcends “into another world while the body dances, swirls, or totters with jerky movements. Shamanism went underground during the former communist period but has been revived recently.</p> ', 'excerpt' => '', 'file1' => 'Mongolian Blue Trail to Spiritual Shaman tour.jpg', 'file2' => 'Tsaatan_taiga_tours_mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Mongolian Blue Trail to Spiritual Shaman tour', 'alt_for_file2' => 'Tsaatan_taiga_tours_mongolia', 'days' => '15', 'price' => '3290', 'type' => 'tour', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 5 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Mongolia Overland Tour 2026/2027', 'slug' => 'mongolia-overland-tour', 'body' => '<p>This is the best way to discover Mongolia, travel through the breathtaking landscapes, experience nomadic lifestyle and culture. This 16 day overland tour takes you to the most popular travel destinations of Mongolia. You will encounter yourself in chilling areas of Lake Khovsgol, known as Blue Pearl of Mongolia, the second most voluminous fresh water lake in Asia. Then travel to Mongolia’s historical site, Orkhon Valley Cultural Landscape - UNESCO’s world heritage. You will also explore Gobi Desert where prehistoric remains, impressive sand dunes and camel herding nomads are awaiting your visit. Our experienced tour team will let you explore all the wonders this trip offers.</p> ', 'excerpt' => '', 'file1' => 'Mongolian_jeep_tours.jpg', 'file2' => 'Overland_Tour_Mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Mongolian_jeep_tours', 'alt_for_file2' => 'Overland_Tour_Mongolia', 'days' => '16', 'price' => '2990', 'type' => 'tour', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ) ) $videoBlog = array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'THE GOLDEN EAGLE HUNTERS OF MONGOLIA: Family, Tradition, and Survival in the Altai Mountains', 'slug' => 'golden-eagle-hunters-mongolia', 'body' => '<p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai_egale_hunters_bayan_olgii_aimag.jpg" /></p> <h3 style="font-style: italic;">Written from over twenty years of travel, photography, and collaboration with eagle hunting families in western Mongolia.</h3> <p>Long before eagle festivals became known internationally, the relationship between Kazakh eagle hunters and the Altai Mountains had already existed for generations.</p> <p>This culture was never created for tourism. It was shaped slowly through mountain life, winter survival, horses, hunting traditions, family responsibility, and the vast landscape of western Mongolia itself.</p> <p>The first time I watched an eagle hunter riding beneath the high Altai mountains with a golden eagle on his arm, something immediately felt natural about the scene — almost like seeing a fish return to water. The mountains, the horse, the eagle, and the rider did not feel separated from one another. They belonged together.</p> <p>Over the past twenty years working in tourism and photography across Mongolia, I came to understand that this feeling is also what attracts so many visitors to the Altai. People are not simply coming to see an eagle. They are trying to experience a living cultural world that still remains deeply connected to place, family, and landscape.</p> <p>I did not grow up inside this tradition myself. I was born in Zavkhan province in central Mongolia and come from a Khalkh Mongolian background. In many ways, I first encountered the eagle hunters as an outsider too — with curiosity and respect, much like the travelers who arrive in the Altai for the first time. Over the years, however, that curiosity gradually became a deeper understanding of how unique and fragile this cultural world truly is.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_Hunters_Mongolia_Eagle_training.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="585" data-section-id="1ultx4g" data-start="553">A Culture Shaped by the Altai</h2> <p>Not everyone becomes an eagle hunter.</p> <p>Among Kazakh families of the Altai, eagle hunting is not simply a hobby or performance. Knowledge is often passed from father to son, from older brother to younger brother, and between generations over long periods of time. The tradition carries patience, responsibility, and years of lived experience.</p> <p>The culture itself could only have emerged in a place like the Altai. Horses, open valleys, winter conditions, hunting traditions, and the rhythm of nomadic life all shaped the world in which eagle hunting survived. Even today, seeing an eagle hunter riding through the mountain valleys still feels inseparable from the landscape around him.</p> <p>An eagle itself is also far more than a symbol displayed during festivals.</p> <p>Keeping a golden eagle requires constant care, feeding, training, and attention throughout the year. During the warmer seasons, many eagles live outside. But in winter, the eagle often lives inside the family home itself, occupying its own place in the western-southern side of the ger or house.</p> <p>Caring for the bird becomes part of everyday family life. Children help feed and look after the eagle. Women clean the surrounding space and participate in its daily care. Over time, the eagle becomes part of the household itself.</p> <p>This is one reason why eagle hunting culture cannot be understood only through competitions or photographs alone. Behind every eagle hunter stands an entire family helping carry the tradition forward.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Old_Eagle_hunters-Mongolia-Sagsai-Mountain.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="613" data-section-id="1q1yn22" data-start="587">A Changing Modern World</h2> <p>Like many traditional ways of life around the world, the eagle hunter culture of the Altai is also changing.</p> <p>Several hunters from remote regions have spoken quietly about leaving the tradition behind — not because they stopped respecting it, but because keeping an eagle has become increasingly difficult. Feeding and caring for the birds requires time, money, and constant effort. Hunting opportunities have also changed over time as wildlife regulations, modern economic realities, and daily life in the Altai have gradually shifted.</p> <p>Families living far from tourism routes often face even greater challenges. Some hunters explained that they eventually had to focus more on raising livestock and supporting their families rather than continuing to keep eagles as previous generations once did.</p> <p>In the past, eagle hunting was closely tied to survival and winter hunting in the mountains. Today, the world surrounding the Altai hunters is no longer the same.</p> <p>Like many remote regions facing rapid modernization, the Altai is also changing quickly, bringing both new opportunities and new pressures for local communities.</p> <p>Yet the culture still remains alive.</p> <p>Not because it has stayed frozen in the past, but because families continue adapting while trying to protect what matters most.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai_young_eagle_hunter_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="645" data-section-id="1gjetbc" data-start="615">Why Gatherings Still Matter</h2> <p>For generations, eagle hunters gathered seasonally not only to compete, but also to meet one another, exchange knowledge, maintain relationships between families, and continue a shared cultural identity connected to the Altai.</p> <p>Modern eagle festivals grew naturally from this deeper tradition of gathering.</p> <p>Today, these gatherings remain important not only for visitors, but also for the hunters themselves. Preparing for the festival becomes part of the yearly rhythm of many eagle hunting families. It creates pride, motivation, and recognition within the community itself.</p> <p>The festivals are also larger than the competitions alone.</p> <p>Women present traditional handicrafts and handmade work. Children perform music and cultural programs. Young artists display drawings and paintings inspired by their homeland and heritage. Many of these children may become the next generation who continue carrying the culture forward in different ways.</p> <p>In this sense, the eagle festivals are not simply performances for tourists. They remain living community gatherings connected to the wider cultural world of the Altai.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Golden_eagle_festival_mongolia_womans_art.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="672" data-section-id="j0wo5h" data-start="647">Tourism and Continuity</h2> <p>Tourism alone cannot preserve culture.</p> <p>But when done respectfully, it can help traditions remain economically meaningful in a changing world.</p> <p>For some families today, introducing travelers to their eagles and way of life has become one of the few realistic ways to continue keeping the tradition alive while remaining in the Altai itself.</p> <p>For Mongolia’s tourism industry, the eagle festival season also arrives at an important time of year. Much of the country’s tourism remains concentrated between June and August. The eagle festivals of September and October create opportunities beyond the short summer season — not only for travelers, but also for remote western communities.</p> <p>Families build guest gers. Local drivers find work. Horse owners, craftsmen, musicians, cooks, and herding families all become part of the wider cultural economy surrounding the festivals.</p> <p>Today, new roads are reaching Sagsai. Small tourism camps are beginning to appear. Some eagle hunter families are preparing additional guest spaces beside their homes. These changes may seem small, but they represent something important: the possibility that local people can continue living with dignity while remaining connected to their own traditions.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunters_items_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="695" data-section-id="1iubqz3" data-start="674">The Role of Sagsai</h2> <p>For this reason, the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival has always meant more to us than a tourism event alone.</p> <p>Sagsai is not simply an administrative district. It is one of the cultural centers of Mongolia’s Kazakh eagle hunter world. Many of the country’s eagle hunting families continue living there, and we believed it was important for visitors to experience this culture closer to the communities where it still survives most strongly.</p> <p>Even the prizes given during the festival reflect a philosophy we have tried to protect.</p> <p>For many years, the festival’s top winners have been awarded horses rather than modern machinery or vehicles. This choice was intentional. We hope the image of the horse-mounted eagle hunter remains part of the Altai landscape for generations to come.</p> <p>The goal has never been to create mass tourism.</p> <p>The goal is to help people understand why this culture matters — not only to the Kazakh eagle hunters themselves, but also to Mongolia’s cultural identity and to the future of the Altai region.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Three_hunters_with_horses.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="715" data-section-id="j62i49" data-start="697">Looking Forward</h2> <p>Today, the golden eagle hunters of Mongolia stand at an important moment between continuity and change.</p> <p>Roads are arriving. The modern world is expanding. Younger generations are growing up differently from their grandparents.</p> <p>Yet in the mountains of the Altai, there are still mornings when an eagle hunter rides across open valleys beneath snow-covered peaks with his bird raised against the cold wind — a sight that still feels inseparable from the land itself.</p> <p>Preserving that relationship may become one of the quiet cultural responsibilities of our generation.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunters-Mongolia-Sagsai-Mountain.jpg" /></p> <p>Experience the Eagle Hunter Traditions of the Altai</p> <p>Explore our curated journeys into western Mongolia and experience the living culture of the Kazakh eagle hunters respectfully and responsibly through the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'golden_eagle_hunters_mongolia_Blog_news.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'golden_eagle_hunters_mongolia_Blog_news', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'url' => array( 'plugin' => 'nodes', 'controller' => 'nodes', 'action' => 'view', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'slug' => 'golden-eagle-hunters-mongolia' ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ) $mostReadBlogs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT NAADAM FESTIVAL BEFORE YOU ATTEND? ', 'slug' => 'what-to-know-about-naadam-festival-before-you-attend', 'body' => '<h3><strong>What does Naadam mean?</strong></h3> <p> According to the book named “TRAVEL”, published from DK, Mongolian Naadam Festival is highlighted the only must see attraction for tourists in July. So, why is this Festival so attractive for both locals and travelers? Naadam is the festival of “National Pride” and it is the only one of its kind; it is a sophisticated and eloquent expression of nomadic culture, it is the honored celebration of a national independence, and it is an outstanding combination of arts and sports.</p> <p>Here are the 10 interesting facts about the festival you must know before planning the trip.</p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>1. When is the Naadam Festival held? </strong></h4> <p>Naadam Festival is Olympic Games of Mongols and held in <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/best-events-in-july-in-mongolia" target="_blank">the most enjoyable and festive month in the country.</a> The main celebrations will be held annually on 11-13 July at Central Stadium and Khui Doloon Khudag in the country’s capital, Ulaanbaatar. But you have opportunity to enjoy the festival more closely with locals in other parts of the country hold their own as well.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia naadam festival horse race" src="/uploads/Local_Naadam_festival_horses.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>2. WHY “THREE GAMES OF MEN”</strong></h4> <p>Weird, but inspiring ‘Mongolia’s Three Games of Men’-Archery, Horse Racing and Wrestling are the main games. The origin of Naadam Festival is closely related to the history and culture of the country. It was one of the main practice of war. Before and after major battles, the three sports of men- wrestling, horseracing and archery- were exercised as an organized event, which later adopted its present name- Naadam. It is not only sports game including art, tricks, tactics but also ethic and cultural performance such as singing, dance, traditional costume, parade etc.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Mongolia-Naadam-Festival.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Mongolians revere certain parts of bones of their livestock and use them in religious rites, plays and traditional games.</p> <p>In recent years Knuckle Bone Shooting- a team game getting popular and it became “Fourth” main sports of the festival. Teams of six to eight players flick thirty domino-like marble tablets on a smooth wooden surface towards a target of sheep knuckle-bones.</p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>3. WHAT IS MONGOLIAN NATIONAL WRESTLING?</strong></h4> <p> Wrestling is a unique combination of traditional sports manner and cultural elements of eagle dance, long song etc. It also has thousands of years of historical development in Mongolia.</p> <p>Comparing to other wrestling competitions it has several specialty such as no time, space and weigh limit, 512 wrestlers are typically compete each other by tournament and this number increased to 1024 on the occasion of important anniversaries. Wrestlers must have strong discipline, moral and respectfulness to elders, high titled wrestler and audiences.</p> <p>There are four main parts in the Mongolian Wrestling costumes including Four-sided hat, shoulder vest & snug shorts (Zodog & Shuudag), Cloak and traditional boots for using men only.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/wrestlingLocal_Naadam_festival4.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>4. MONGOLIAN HORSE RACING</strong></h4> <p>A horse role and culture is the biggest tradition of the Mongols in the daily and national life. Mongolians are said that “Nation born on horseback” and every child who grows in countryside learn to ride a horse when they are 3 to 5 years.</p> <p>See the longest horse race ridden by children might not imagined.</p> <p>Actually horse racing is scientifically sport and it races except winter time, when grass grows. To train a horse for race keeping under a special regimen at least one month before race and horse jockeys are usefully between 5 and 13 years of age and lead their horse across the steppes, over various distances between 10 and 26 km depending on horse age.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Horse_racing_Local_Naadam_festival.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Soyolon- Five-years-old horse racing is most popular for locals and according to ancient Mongolian myth that says it is possible to charge its spirit and fortune by getting in touch with the whirled up dust and sweat of horse after racing.</p> <p>Children sing a special song named GIINGOO, a mantra of GOD of HORSE- Khayankhyarvaa before and after racing.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Naadam_Horse_racing_game1.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Please notice that Horse Racing field is located 35 km from Ulaanbaatar named Khui Doloon Khudag, on the way you go to Khustai NP or Karakorum.</p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>5. WHAT IS MONGOLIAN ARCHERY?</strong></h4> <p>Due to its traditional lifestyle, ancient people used their version of bows and arrows for hunting and in later it started to be used as a weapon during the battle. During the Naadam Festival, all male, female and child archers who wears traditional costumes, compete in three categories: Khalkh, Buriad and Uriankhai archery, which have differences in the bows and arrows used, as well as the distance of the target. Archery is symbol of strength, vision, patience, sense and concentration. You can enjoy it outside of stadium, before opening ceremony starts, due to it starts early in the morning.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Archery.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>6. HOW THE OPENING CEREMONY GOES?</strong></h4> <p>The opening ceremony starts at 11 A.M after “Nine White Banners” are carried by honored guard from Government Palace to be settled in the middle of Stadium and then the speech of President of Mongolia. Naadam Festival is very colorful event where people revive their Nomadic spirit, history and heritage. Opening ceremony has a great chance to enjoy and photograph Mongolian culture, art performances, song and dance, colorful parade, traditional costumes and miracles of Mongolian military force etc.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Naadam_openning.jpg" /></p> <p>Everybody wears the most colorful and attractive traditional costumes with many different styles, like actors wear their best in Red Carpet of Oscars.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Naadam_opening_ceremony3.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Photographers must buy a photo permission from Festival Organizer and it is allowed to photographing and video graphing in white lane. Therefore, please prepare zoom-lenses to capture more authentic photos.</p> <p>After the ceremony ends Wrestling tournament will start. Most of the tourists enjoy opening ceremony and go to horse racing place.</p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>7. A CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE OTHER CULTURAL EVENTS AT A SAME TIME</strong></h4> <p>There are few cultural events will run under the Hospitable Ulaanbaatar Program between 10 and 15 of July annually. In the afternoon of 10<sup>th</sup> of July you will fully enjoy Mongolian Traditional Costume Festival- Deeltei Mongol, “Ceremony of Nine White Banners” and in the evening one of the Mongolian best operas “Uchirtai Gurvan Tolgoi-Three Dramatic Character” will be held in open air theatre at the central square.</p> <p>In the night of 11<sup>th</sup> of July “Night of Ulaanbaatar”, Mongolian Dance Festival including modern and traditional dance show (12 Jul), Morin Khuur- Horse-headed Fiddle Festival (13 Jul), Ulaanbaatar Swing Night- Jaaz show (14 Jul)- the open air shows will be held in Sukhbaatar Square. Enjoy.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Ulaanbaatar_Naadam_.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>8. WHAT SURROUNDS CENTRAL STADIUM?</strong></h4> <p>From a long time ago Naadam was only fest which gathering local people same time in same place. In the rest of the time nomadic people had very busy to visit each other and they only take care of their livestock, which is not easy job. When they gathered in same place they also do a barter, sell good and talk a gossip etc. Nowadays it is almost same in the area and surroundings of the Central Stadium is too crowd of people, bazaar, entertainment, lottery and food and beverage kiosks like a fair. For instance, if you forget to take your umbrella or sunglass you can buy it from local bazaar as cheap as you can.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Naadam_festival_Around.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;">TASTE TRADITIONAL MONGOLIAN FOODs & DRINKs</h4> <p>Of course you will ask what is the main dish of Naadam Festival? Definitely “round” KHUUSHUUR, fried dumpling is the main dish and once you taste it, you will never forget the taste and next time eager to eat it. At the stadium, good Khuushuur making kiosk has a queue and they make it quickly in front of you.</p> <p>Drinking fermented mare’s milk- Airag also known as Kumis is the highlight of the Festival for locals. Because Airag appears only in summer time from June to September. Please don’t miss a chance to drink this alcoholic beverage nearly 5% alcoholic content.</p> <p>HOW DOES IT TASTE? I want to say JUST DRINK IT.</p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>9. JOIN LOCAL NAADAM FESTIVAL OUTSIDE OF ULAANBAATAR</strong></h4> <p>Local Naadam Festival is more attractive for travelers, because of truly authentic, enthusiastic, no dramatic and allows you to experience first-hand by visiting locals. Here you can photograph and talk with locals without any prohibition. Mongolian traditional Ger dwelling used to be as restaurants in countryside. Most of the people ride a horse and run through the vast steppe without any traffic rule.</p> <p>The festival is like a small fair. Local people come from all the province to either participate in the festivals to sell food and toys, or to run small carnival games for children and youngsters.</p> <p>If you don’t like too touristic things LOCAL NAADAM is the best choice. </p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/Local_naadam_festival.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals " src="/uploads/Local_Naadam_festival1.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h4 style="text-align: center;"><strong>10. HOW TO BOOK HOTEL AND TICKETS OF NAADAM FESTIVAL?</strong></h4> <p>July is the PEAK SEASON of tourists. While it is peak, the price of accommodation is doubled (desk rate price) and must book it at least 6 months before. Centrally located accommodation even guesthouses are fully booked in this time. Tour operator and local agents will be your reliable partner in the field.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia local naadam festivals" src="/uploads/NaadamStadium.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Central stadium has 18 sections and four of them use for tourists. Nowadays booking a NAADAM TICKET by online is impossible. Ticket price for tourist section with roof is 25$, but you need to buy both opening and closing ceremony tickets. It will be sold a week before it runs and it is not easy to buy individually even for Mongolians.</p> <p>Therefore, tour companies are best choice to book and arrange both accommodations, tickets and tour throughout Mongolia.</p> <p>Ayan travel team is expert for arranging tours of Naadam festival which was named as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity of UNESCO in 2010, as soon as you’re different interest, expectation of tour such as discovery and photography tours.</p> <p> </p> <p>Here is the link might help you to plan your trip to Mongolia during the truly authentic Festival of Nomads- Naadam.</p> <p>Suggested tour: <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/mongolia-naadam-festival-2018-tour" target="_blank"><strong>Mongolia Naadam Festival - 2019 Tour-11 days</strong></a></p> <p>If you are passionate with photography we suggest following tours: <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/classic-mongolia-photography-tour"><strong>Classic Mongolia Photography tour-14 days</strong></a></p> <p>Or if you have limited time to travel in Mongolia and need to experience and photograph local and city Naadam Festival on the same trip, then we recommend : <strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/naadam-to-naadam-guided-photo-tour" target="_blank">Naadam to Naadam Guided Photo Tour </a></strong></p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'What-to-khow-before-you-attend-mongolian-naadam-festival.JPG', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'What-to-khow-before-you-attend-mongolian-naadam-festival', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2017-04-21 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 1 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => '10 Reasons to visit Mongolian Altai Mountains ', 'slug' => '10-reasons-to-visit-mongolian-altai-mountains', 'body' => '<p> </p> <p> Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is an impressive natural reserve and is famous for its 5 highest peaks and largest Potanin glacier, lying on more than 4,000m above the sea level, the highest and westernmost region of Mongolia. </p> <p>The park has not only natural wonders but also it has cultural and historical wonders including thousands of ancient rock carvings, listed on UNESCO World Heritage Site, mysterious stone men and burial mounds and uncommon nomadic cultures of Kazakh and Tuva people. </p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Golden_eagle_festival_altai_mountain_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>There are also beautiful hidden lakes Khoton and Khurgan, worshipped Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain, crystal clear rivers and rare wildlife.</p> <p>Travel Mongolia and take a trip to Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, in <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destination/western" target="_blank">western Mongolia </a>can be a great adventure. If you take a trip to Mongolia you should not miss this amazing cultural, historical and natural rich National Park. </p> <p>Here are the ten reasons to visit Altai Tavan Bogd National Park of Mongolia. </p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>1.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Mongolian Altai Mountains </strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Altai_tavan_bogd_morning.jpg" /></p> <p> Mongolian Altai is the largest mountain system in Mongolia. Beginning in the mountain group of Tavan Bogd /5 saints/, one of the elevated parts of the country, it stretches south-east and consists of a number of ridges close to each other and average altitude of the ridges is 3,000-3,500meters.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/altai_mountains_mongolia_western_site.jpg" /></p> <p>The highest point is Mt.Khuiten/4374m/ means “cold” and another peak is Nairamdal means friendship, where Russian, Chinese and Mongolian borders meet. Other peaks are Malchin/Herder/, Burged/Eagle/ and Ulgii/ Land/. Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is the highest and remotest park of Mongolia, established in 1996 and covers 6,362 square kilometers.</p> <div> </div> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>2.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Largest lakes in Altai Tavan Bogd National Park</strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains Khoton khurgan lakes" src="/uploads/Lakes in western Mongolia-Khoto Lake.jpg" /></p> <p>Altai Tavan Bogd National Park contains numerous beautiful lakes. The largest Lakes are <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destinations/khoton-lake" target="_blank">Khoton</a>, <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destinations/khurgan-lake" target="_blank">Khurgan</a> and Dayan. Khoton and Khurgan Lakes are connected with wide channel and surrounded by snow caped mountains and beautiful scenery.</p> <div> </div> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains Khoton_khurgan lakes" src="/uploads/lakes in Altai Tavan Bogd NP.jpg" /></p> <p>There is an island covered by woods in the middle of Khoton Lake and the lake is also source of Khovd River which drains the Altai Mountain. These two lakes are home to several species of fishes, some of them are only in western Mongolian basin. Also, many local nomads live around the lakes where you can visit and experience their culture.</p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>3.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Glaciers of the Park </strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Altai_Mountain_potanin-glacier.jpg" /></p> <p>There are more than 10 glaciers in Altai Tavan Bogd Mountains and 3 of them can be seen when you are heading to the park. The largest glacier is Potanin, 14km long and named Grigory Potanin, Russian explorer who first discovered this glacier. Potanin Glacier is decreasing in size in last years as other glaciers around the world. You can hike on the glacier with experienced local guide and take a hike and enjoy the beautiful peaceful scenery. </p> <h3> </h3> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>4.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Rock carvings of Mongolian Altai Mountains </strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <div><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Rock carvings Mongolia.jpg" /></div> <p>The most complete and best preserved visual record of human prehistoric representation is existing in Mongolian Altai Mountains, inscribed on UNESCO Heritage Sites as <strong><a href="http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1382" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">“The Petroglyphic Complex of the Mongolian Altai”.</span></a></strong></p> <div> </div> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd shiveet_khairkhan Mountain.jpg" /></p> <p>About 10,000 petroglyphs and number of ancient human statues/stone man/ are close to <strong><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/UNESCO's-newest-World-Heritage-Sites-Petroglyphs-Complexes-of-the-Mongolian-Altai-Mongolia." target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain</span></a><span style="color:#800000;"> </span></strong>which show us the thousands years of ancient tribal history and culture dated back from Neolith to Bronze age and the meaning and expressiveness of this rock art might be transition from ancient hunters, warriors and societies to livestock breeding and the beginning of the classic nomadism in Mongolia.</p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-tour-mongolia" target="_blank"><img alt="sagsai golden eagle festival mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai-Golden-Eagle-Festival-Tour-Mongolia-By-Ayan-Travel.jpg" /></a></p> <div> </div> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>5.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Standing rocks and stone men are also popular </strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <div><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/9.Archeological sites in western Mongolia.jpg" /></div> <p> </p> <p>There are about 700 standing rock and stone men exist in the world and more than 500 of them are located in Mongolia. Near the Shiveet Khairkhan Mountain, there is a complex of Turkic stone men dating back to 6-8th century.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Standing Rocks in Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>6.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Visit Kazakh and Tuva Nomads in the park</strong></span></h3> <p>Altai Tavan Bogd National Park is located in ethnically diverse region of western Mongolia. Kazakh, Tuva and Uriankhai people have been living here for thousands of years and still keeping their nomadic heritages and lifestyle. Their culture and religion are diverse too.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Visit_kazakh family in Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Tuva people have worshipped Shiveet Khairkhan Moutnain since they had settled in Mongolian Altai and it means that they protect this region including its wildlife and historical/cultural heritage sites for hundreds of years which gives us the chance for discovering our ancestors’ way of living and beautiful wild nature. </p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Visit kazakh family in Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Don’t miss to visit in Kazakh family, their hospitality is amazing like other Mongolian nomads.Kazakh people believe in some strange sayings that “the family cries and they might be unlucky when guests not to visit their home” so Kazakh family offer their last meals to their guests, even they don’t have any food for them. Every Kazakh family owns Dombor-the national musical instruments and the <strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/golden-eagle-the-hunter-bird-in-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">golden eagles for prey</span></a></strong>. You can experience their unique culture, lifestyle and amazing hospitality. </p> <div> </div> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>7.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Eagle Hunters and Golden Eagle Festival </strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains eagle hunter" src="/uploads/Kazakh Eagle hunter Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Altai Tavan Bogd national Park is home to golden eagles. Hunting with golden eagles is one of the most important traditions of Mongolian Kazakhs. They train their eagles at its young age and hunt with eagles in winters. In the beginning of October, in Bayan-Ulgii province,<strong><span style="color:#800000;"><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/why-you-should-visit-sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-in-mongolia" target="_blank"> </a>T</span><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/mongolian-golden-eagle-festival-and-eagle-hunters" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">he Golden Eagle Festival</span></a><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/why-you-should-visit-sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-in-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;"> </span></a></strong>is held for promoting Kazakh’s ancient tradition to their next generation and to the world. On this fascinating festival, you will see and enjoy uncommon cultural activities and have great opportunity to take stunning photos.</p> <p>Here you can enjoy the <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/incredible-photos-from-spring-golden-eagle-festival" target="_blank">most impressive golden eagle and eagle hunters' photos</a> by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Ch.BatzayaPhotography/" target="_blank">Batzaya Photography</a>. </p> <div> </div> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>8.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Fauna of the Altai Mountain National Park of Mongolia</strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Snow-Leopard-In-Mongolia-Photography-By-Batzaya-Choijiljav.jpg" /></p> <p>The National Park is habitat of large mammals, including, red deer, brown bears, gray wolves foxes and marmots. Endangered snow lynx, <strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/photography-of-snow-leopards-in-mongolias-wild-west" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Snow Leopard,</span></a></strong> <strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/wildlife-photography-discover-mongolian-wild-side" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Argali wild sheep </span></a></strong>and impressive birds, golden eagles, Eurasian eagle owl, snowcock, and several species of falcons. Also, thousands of migratory birds, pass through in spring and fall, including Eurasian spoonbill, relict, and <strong><a href="https://www.birdmongolia.com/bird-blog/bird-mongolia-shows-life-of-siberian-cranes-in-photos" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">6 species of crane</span></a></strong>, gull and Black Kite hawk. Mongolian Altai is one of the best destination for fishers, Potanin Osman, Mongolian Grayling, found only in western Mongolia and other several species of fish are famous Taimen, Lenok Trout are in the rivers and lakes of the park. </p> <div> </div> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>9.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Flora of the National Park </strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Flora of Altai Tavan Bogd NP.jpg" /></p> <p>Mongolian Altai Mountain the eco region is the habitant of many endemic and endangered species of plants including, Rhodiola rosea Juniperus communis and Altai onion /Allum Altaicum pell/ some of them are used for medicine and food by locals. Half of the flora of Siberia is found to be here. Generally the flora of the park has poorly studied so it is great destination to scientists.</p> <div> </div> <h3><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>10.<span style="white-space:pre"> </span>Western Mongolia - Outdoor Activities and Photographic Destination</strong></span></h3> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Kazakh Nomads in Western Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Mongolia is a true destination of photography and outdoor adventures. If you are a photographer looking for new, exotic place to photograph, then Mongolian Altai Mountain is the right destination for you. Check out<strong><span style="color:#800000;"> </span><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/best-photo-spots-in-western-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">the best photo spots in western region of Mongolia</span></a><span style="color:#800000;">.</span></strong> You can hike, climb, trek, camp and horseride are popular activities in this awe inspiring region. Landscapes are diverse too, including desert steppe, dense forests, peaceful meadows, crystal clear lakes, Mountain Rivers and glacier and snow caped mountain adventures await you.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/western mongolia trip.jpg" /></p> <p> You can trek anywhere in the park and most people hike or ride horses and camels. It is good way to explore surrounding area of the park. Riding and package carrying horses and camels can be rented through both local tour operators and families. Fishing inside the park is great with 5 species of fish, some of them are only found in the Western Mongolian Basin. The lakes and rivers contain Taimen, Lenok Trout, Osman, Grayling, and Pike. Fly fishing during the summer is attracts sportsmen from all over the world and ice fishing is popular among locals during the winter. Fishing inside the park is permitted from June 15 to April 15.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/Climbing Altai Mountains of Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/stunning-photos-of-mongolian-altai-mountains" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Climb the highest peaks of Mongolia</span></a></strong>. To climb the Khuiten Peak needs world class skills and climb the Malchin peak is easier, so you have opportunity to enjoy the view from the roof of Mongolia.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="visit Mongolia Altai tavan bogd Mountains" src="/uploads/riding tour in Altai Mountains of Mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Horseback riding is one of the best way to explore deep in this large park. Riding through the diverse landscapes like locals and visit the highlighted sites of the park. There are more adventures await you which could not be expressed by the words. Ayan Travel (<a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com" target="_blank">toursmongolia.com</a>) the local adventure tour operator arranges all kind of tours to the park. Just come and experience! </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'ten-reasons-to-visit-mongolian-altai-mountains1.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'ten-reasons-to-visit-mongolian-altai-mountains1', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2017-07-04 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 2 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia', 'slug' => 'why-you-should-visit-sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-in-mongolia', 'body' => '<p>Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival is held annually in western Mongolia and is a 2-day festival that annually runs 17 to 18th of September, co-organized by eagle hunters, local officials, and Mongolian tour operator company Ayan Travel.<font color="#37474f" face="Roboto Mono, monospace"><span style="font-size: 14px; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.95);"> </span></font>The festival covers with Kazakh cultural activities, eagle hunting competitions, meeting ups with famous eagle hunters, and special photographic workshops in majestic Altai Mountain ranges at the pleasant time of the year. This year the festival will be held between 2026-09-17 and 2026-09-18 in Sagsai Village, Bayan-Ulgii Province, West Mongolia. Here are the top ten reasons why you should visit the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival.</p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>1. Golden Eagle Festival Is Getting the World’s Most Trendy Event</strong></span></span></h2> <p>According to world-class publications, there are some new words started to be seen The Golden Eagle Festival, Eagle Hunting in Mongolia, Kazakh Eagle Hunters, Ancient Tradition Is Still Alive in Mongolia …etc. That is true, appreciate journalists from around the world to promote this incredible human culture which nestles in the remote Altai mountains in Mongolia.</p> <p><img alt="sagsai-eagle-festival" src="/uploads/sagsai-eagle-hunters-mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Since the soul-touching Film made about wonderful teenage eagle huntress Aisholpan, the hidden tradition of eagle hunting has been captured the world’s attention. She has been practiced eagle hunting with her father. In 2014, she participated the eagle hunting competition against the adult, experienced eagle hunters during the annual Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia. So the film, the destination, the young generation, and the tradition of eagle hunting is all about the epic story of human culture and nature which truly steal your heart and can be the reason you should visit the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia.</p> <p><img alt="sagsai eagle festival mongolia opening parade" src="/uploads/sagsai-festival-mongolia-opening-parade.jpg" style="float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px; " /></p> <p><img alt="the eagle huntress aisholpan" src="/uploads/aisholpan.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>2. Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival Offers Chance To Know About Kazakh Culture </strong></span></span></h2> <p>Once you decided to travel to west Mongolia, especially visit eagle hunters, one of the most important things to do is experiencing the nomadic lifestyle of the local people and Kazakh culture. </p> <p><img alt="nomadic migration at sagsai" src="/uploads/sagsai-festival-culture-day-nomadic-migration.jpg" /></p> <p><strong>On the first day</strong> of the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival you will totally immerse yourself into the authentic Kazakh culture by visiting hunters’ families, the most hospitable people on earth, following nomadic migration, learning their customs, experiencing in ger/yurt assembling, tasting local cuisine.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-Mongolia-by-Ayan-Travel.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle-hunter-family" src="/uploads/sagsai-festival-mongolia-visit-kazakh-family.jpg" style="float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px; " /></p> <p><img alt="eagle-hunter-family-in-west-mongolia" src="/uploads/sagsai-festiva-visit-kazakh-family.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <p>All visitors are invited to have warm talks with popular hunters, listening to epic stories, and speeches in the afternoon. As it is a cultural event, folk music performance is included in the program, the perfect chance to see them in their national embroidered costumes.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_Eagle_festival_concert.jpg" style="float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px;" /></p> <p><img alt="kazakh folk performance" src="/uploads/Eagle_festival_folk_performance.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>3. Explore The World Of Eagle Hunting During The Festival </strong></span></span></h2> <p>Hunting with eagles has been practiced by Kazakh and Kyrgyz people for thousands of years in central Asia. Today in Mongolia, this is still living among the Kazakhs in its ancient form.</p> <p><img alt="eagle-hunters-sagsai-festival" src="/uploads/eagle-hunitng-mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>The giant golden eagle soaring over the prey, and the hunter or Berkutchi /eagle hunter I Kazakh language/ calling his eagle while galloping on horseback to the prey, the hunter eagle swooping down and landed on the prey hand with her full speed.</p> <p><img alt="hunitng-with-eagles-in-mongolia" src="/uploads/The-Eagle-Hunting-in-Mongolia-sagsai.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle-prey" src="/uploads/hunting-eagle-prey.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p><img alt="the golden eagle" src="/uploads/hunting-eagles-prey.jpg" style=" float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px; " /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <p>This is the most amazing moment to show us how the eagle and the man have built a special, spiritual relationship during their training period. It is said that there are five methods of hunting with eagles used among Kazakh falconry. You will learn all about the eagle hunting, its traditions and see thrilling competitions on the second day of the festival.</p> <p><img alt="eagle hunter at sagsai eagle festival" src="/uploads/Eagle-Hunter-in-Mongolia-Sagsai.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="tug of war at eagle festival" src="/uploads/eagle-hunting-festoval-competition.jpg" style="float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px; " /></p> <p><img alt="kuk-bar at eagle festival" src="/uploads/eagle-festival-kuk-bar.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>4. Photography Workshops At Sagsai Eagle Festival</strong></span></span></h2> <p>We are helping our clients to “Be the eye to the world”, the words make us motivated as a photo tour organizing team. The 2-day festival is dedicated to all levels of photographers and filmmakers. The Golden Eagle Festival is so photogenic and very rich in unique objects to capture.</p> <p><img alt="photography tour to sagsai festival" src="/uploads/sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-mongolia-photography-workshops.jpg" /></p> <p>The hunter eagles, elegantly geared horses, traditionally embroidery dressed locals, festival parade, thrilling games on horseback, cultural ceremonies, performances, eagle hunting actions, ethnic portraits, and natural beauties are all in front of you. </p> <p><img alt="portrait photography at sagsai eagle festival" src="/uploads/eagle-hunter-portrait.jpg" /></p> <p>Special photo sessions are included in the program and if you need more professional service please just tell us and let us make your lens be the eye to the world. Photography workshops are held by talented, professional photographer Batzaya Choijiljav, who has been arranging and taking photographic adventures throughout Mongolia for more than a decade.</p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>5. Why Sagsai Is An Ideal Place For The Eagle Festival</strong></span></span></h2> <p>Sagsai soum, or village is a perfect habitat of giant eagles, wildlife, and nomadic people. The most eagle hunters of west Mongolia, are living in this small village, so we can call this place as a Hot Spot of Eagle Hunting Tradition in Mongolia. The Eagle Festival takes place in 35km from the Ulgii town, in a convenient area of Sagsai (river) valley surrounded with magnificent mountain backdrops. Special thanks to the local officials of Sagsai village for the cooperation with organizing the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival and it helps us to make our festival more local and tourism-friendly and well-organized.</p> <p><img alt="sagsai-is-ideal-place-for-eagle-hunting-festival" src="/uploads/Sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-location.jpg" /></p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>6. September Is Pleasant Time For Travelling To Eagle Hunters In Mongolia</strong></span></span></h2> <p>When nature turns into its most beautiful color, September is considered to be a suitable period to travel in Mongolia. The temperature is milder than October and a bit cooler than warm August. Pleasant days are good for festive attenders, and the clear nights are perfect to shoot night sky photography. It is also an important period for the eagle training to prepare them for winter hunting. So September is the best time to travel to the eagle hunting festival in Mongolia.</p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>7. Not Too Touristy Festival of Mongolia Gives Us Great Freedom</strong></span></span></h2> <p>If you are a crowd escaper, creative artist, or passionate photographer and need to produce eye-catching works during your travels, or need to have uncommon images of the eagle festival then Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival is the right attraction for you. All the participants are so pleasant to allow us to meet, to have an interview, and to photograph them, the competitions take place right in front of you, so just focus on your passionate subjects.</p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>8. Other Activities Around The Sagsai Festival</strong></span></span></h2> <p>As it is festive, the trade fair, souvenir stands, coffee corner, night events other services, or activities are available during the festival. Tourists are invited to attend our special arranged activities, which would be a surprise for now. </p> <p><img alt="sagsai festival" src="/uploads/sagsai-eagle-festival-trade-fair.jpg" style=" float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px;" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle festival in sagsai" src="/uploads/sagsai-eagle-festival-other-activities.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>9. Contribution To Local People’s Livelihood of Altai Region</strong></span></span></h2> <p>The contribution of tourism towards improving the livelihoods of local people in the remote Altai region of Mongolia. As an organizer of the festival, we have made some economic and social contribution to the local people, especially for young kids. For our clients, this is not the only contribution to the local hunters’ livelihood but also to educate, to inspire international audiences to promote this exotic heritage through their lenses. Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival offers some special sessions for your project if you would like to create outstanding impacts on the society.</p> <p><img alt="contribute to local people at sagsai festival" src="/uploads/contribution-to-eagle-hunters.jpg" style="float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px;" /></p> <p><img alt="contribution to local society at sagsai" src="/uploads/contribute-local-people-at-sagsai-festival.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <h2><span style="color:#008080;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>10. Ayan Travel Experienced Travel Company In Mongolia</strong></span></span></h2> <p>For the last decade, we have been successfully arranging adventure, event-based, and photography tours throughout Mongolia, under the lead of Batzaya Choijiljav, the active traveler, talented photographer, and verified photo contributor to the world-class agencies. Based on our previous travel experiences, we organize Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival with the help of local eagle hunters, official places of Mongolian tourism organizations, and our valuable partners and clients. </p> <p><img alt="ayan travel team at sagsai festival" src="/uploads/Ayan_travel_group_at_eagle_festival.jpg" /></p> <p>For the basic tour operating services, such as meals, accommodation, transportation, travel, photography gear organizing, and keeping all visitors' safety, are arranged by our travel specialists and local partners. Our well-experienced tour guides, photography crew are here to make your trip wonderful. The Team at Ayan Travel try our best to make your trip successfully completed.</p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;">A Picture Says A Thousand Words, But A Video Shows A Thousand Pictures.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">The atmosphere of <strong>Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival </strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uEsnklHGwko" width="560"></iframe></p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/M8ZWRegCSxo?start=10" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Here we suggest<span style="color:#024748;"> </span><u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-tour-mongolia"><span style="color:#0099ff;">Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival Tour 2026</span></a><font color="#800000">. </font></u></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Sagsai_festival_blog_picture.png', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Sagsai_festival_blog_picture', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2020-01-14 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ) ) $usefulBlogs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => '2 Weeks in Mongolia - What To Do?', 'slug' => '2-weeks-in-mongolia-what-to-do', 'body' => '<h2>Our recommendation for a two week Mongolia itinerary</h2> <p>Are you looking for recommendation for Travel Mongolia? Are you asking for someone’s help or suggestions right now? Haven't got much time but you want to take a Mongolia trip? <br /> You'll get a different answer from anyone you ask about the must-sees and must-dos in Mongolia tour. So it can be tough to make sure you get the most from your tour Mongolia so we've pooled our knowledge and put together the ultimate 2-week Mongolia trip. However, we share some of our tours to put into perspective how you need to go about planning a trip to Mongolia with just two weeks at your disposal. That way you’ll get a better feel for a place and get to know the best things to do while your visits Mongolia. Understand that you will never have time to see EVERYTHING. And be okay with it.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="2 weeks tour in Mongolia" src="/uploads/2 week in Mongolia trip.jpg" /></p> <p><em>Spending your time in Mongolia for two weeks...</em></p> <h2><br /> How should I spend 2 weeks in Mongolia?</h2> <p>For all tour in Mongolia, experiencing in nomadic life is of utmost importance if you want explore real culture and adventure travel. In Mongolia it means you’ll spend less time getting inside and more time exploring unchanged and untouched of wildlife and tradition and culture of nomadic herders, also wandering ancient history sites and enjoying natural beauty that make Mongolia world-famous. <br /> Trip from Ulaanbaatar to the countryside, be prepared to experience a wide range of vibes and experiences. We wouldn’t go from the west to east and back. That’s the mentality you have to have with travelling in Mongolia. You can choose your Mongolia tour destinations. Travel Mongolia within 2 week is not enough, not long time, however we recommend you the perfect 2 weeks tour in Mongolia with us.<br /> If you’re a<a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/tips-for-the-first-time-travelers-in-mongolia" target="_blank"> first-time visitor to Mongolia,</a> you need to put some thought into your Mongolia travel planning. Moreover highlight of your 2 week Mongolia is<a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/the-top-5-must-see-events-in-mongolia" target="_blank"> festivals and events</a> of the regions, which attracts lots of interests, you decide to travel.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Naadam festival opening ceremony " src="/uploads/Naadam openning ceremony.jpg" /></p> <p><em> Naadam Festival - National Holiday of Mongolia. Opening ceremony in the central stadium of Ulaanbaatar city. </em></p> <p> </p> <h2><span style="font-size:20px;"><span style="color:#B22222;">The Perfect 14 Day Mongolia Itinerary </span></span></h2> <h3><strong>Ulaanbaatar Day 1-2</strong></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your tour will start from UB, capital city of Mongolia. It’s a heck of an introduction to the country though, so prepare yourself.<br /> So, what to do in Ulaanbaatar? Well, A lot! <br /> At the top of your travel list should be Gandan Monastery and the Bogd Khaan Museum. This is the number one religious sights of Mongolia, and for good reason. Gandan Monastery, which houses the Migijid Janraisag statue with 26.5 meter high which is tallest indoor statue in the world, is generally regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in the country.<br /> There are many more temples, monasteries and museums in Ulaanbaatar, so you won’t be short of temples and Buddha statues. <br /> Some notable highlights include Zaisan Square (Soviet Union Memorial) and you can walk 300 meters on staircase with more than 600 steps and reach the Memorial and also view UB city from top of the mountain.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Mongolia ulaanbaatar " src="/uploads/Ulaanbaatar_city.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><br /> And, of course, there’s more to Ulaanbaatar than monasteries. Ulaanbaatar has fantastic nightlife and shopping, with some of the best restaurants and bars in city. <br /> Another attraction in UB city is the Chinggis square –heart of the city, large colonnade monument of Chinggis khaan, Ogedei, Khubilai khan dominates the square’s north side directly in front of government palace.<br /> Other than that, our advice for UB is to spend some time getting acclimatized, experiencing culture of the people, wandering Ger-streets, checking out the traditional music concerts, and immersing yourself in night life of the city.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Mongolian capital city Ulaanbaatar" src="/uploads/Ulaanbaatar_capital_city.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Sukhbaatar Square in the center of Ulaanbaatar city </em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Gobi Desert and ancient capital Karakorum Day 3-7</strong></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/mongolian-gobi-through-the-lens-of-photographer" target="_blank">Travel to Gobi desert Mongolia</a> start by flight to Dalanzadgad and drive to Yol Valley and explore Gobi Gurvan Saikhan National park. Then you will go to Khongor Sand Dunes and recommend you sand skating, the most famous and touristy section of the Gobi desert.<br /> Next stops will be Bayanzag –cemetery of dinosaurs and Ongi Monastery. This mysterious desert offers you to explore prehistoric sites such as dinosaur fossils and ancient sea bed remains. Experience nomadic lifestyle, meet local people, try camel riding, hike on sand dunes, take stunning pictures and collect beautiful memory while you are travelling.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Gobi desert tours mongolia" src="/uploads/hongor_sand_dune.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><br /> After that you will head to Orkhon Waterfall. Full check out most important travel destinations including Ruins of Chinggis Khan‘s ancient capital Karakorum and the first established monastery of Mongolia-Erdene-zuu and many more and its Museum and Tuvkhun Monastery. It is one of the most important cultural regions in the world and was recognized by the UNESCO world heritage and Turkic exploring. Combinations of natural beauty and historical sites are wonderful out there in province of Arkhangai.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Erdenezuu monastery Mongolia" src="/uploads/erdenezuu_monastery1.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Khovsgol Lake Day 8-12</strong></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next main Mongolia tour attraction heads from <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/provinces/arkhangai" target="_blank">Arkhangai</a> to Khuvsgul lake. There you’ll find the camp houses on shore of fresh water lake of Khuvsgul, where many foreigners base themselves long term thanks to the nice view, mysterious reindeer herder‘s way of living and ancient shaman rituals. There’s a fantastic exploring of untouched life of reindeer herders, arguably the most mysterious ethnic group in the world, a gorgeous Taiga nature beauty on the shore of lake, and it is national park of Khuvsgul. <br /> Northern part of Mongolia is the land of <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/I-Documented-Mongolia%E2%80%99s-Mystical-Tsaatan-Reindeer-People" target="_blank">Tsaatan people</a>, reindeer herders and beautiful Khuvsgul Lake National Park. Visit Tsaatan minority of Mongolia, experience their primitive life style, meet authentic shamans to get knowledge of them and ride reindeer through the Taiga.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Khovsgol lake Mongolia" src="/uploads/Khovsgol_lake.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="Khovsgol lake and darkhad valley" src="/uploads/darkhad_valley.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <h3><br /> <strong> Ending your 2 week Itinerary Day 13-14</strong></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Back in UB.<a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/popular-weekend-trips-around-ulaanbaatar" target="_blank"> Experiencing the best tour attractions near UB</a> – enjoying Chinggis Khaan Equestrian statue near UB city and where it has historical statues and museums. Shopping and cultural performance and have some free day for yourself.<br /> Transfer to the Airport and Departure.<br /> What are your thoughts on this itinerary or do you have any questions about it? <br /> I’d LOVE to hear if you use this itinerary on your visit!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p> </p> <h2><span style="font-size:28px;">Need a longer Itinerary? Consider Mongolian Travel Destinations </span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">In case the above 2 week Mongolia travel itinerary doesn’t check all your boxes, or you were looking for a longer itinerary (or you just want to try and pack more in!), here are some more of our Mongolia travel destinations for you to think about adding to your itinerary.</p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><span style="color:#B22222;"><strong>2 week trip to Western Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p><u>Why western Mongolia?</u></p> <p>Because it is homeland of Eagle hunters and Khazakhs and also includes thousands of ancient rock carvings which is listed on UNESCO World heritage site and also Mongolian Altai mountains.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Must see places</u> –Mongolian Altai Mountains, Altai Tavan Bogd national park, ancient rock carvings, Mysterious stone men and burial mounds, Golden eagle festival and Mongolian Kazakhs.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Things to do</u> – reaching western part of the nation, climbing the mountain, trekking, sightseeing ,walking and photographing in national park, horse riding, visiting local nomadic families, seeing and experiencing eagle hunters and exploring local towns.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>How to get there </u>– domestic flight, off road minivan or jeep and horse.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Altai mountains " src="/uploads/Altai_mountain_tuva_family.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Eagle hunting tour in Altai Mountain Mongolia" src="/uploads/Altai_mountain_eagle hunting.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Suggested tours</strong></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/adventures-in-altai-tavan-bogd-mountains-tour" target="_blank">Adventures in Altai Tavan bogd Mountain tour</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/golden-eagle-festival-mongol-altai-mountains-photographic-expedition" target="_blank">Golden Eagle Festival and Mongol Altai Mountains Photographic Expedition</a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Related Articles and Topics</strong></p> <p>- <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destination/western" target="_blank">Mongolian travel destination, Western Mongolia</a> </p> <p>- <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/10-reasons-to-visit-mongolian-altai-mountains" target="_blank">10 Reasons to visit Mongolian Atai Mountains</a></p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><span style="color:#B22222;"><strong>2 week trip in Central Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p><u>Why central Mongolia?</u></p> <p>Because it is one of the most important cultural regions in the world and was recognized by the UNESCO world heritage and Turkic exploring. Combinations of natural beauty and historical sites are wonderful out there. There you can have chance to see wild animals such as Takhi-wild horse, Argalin wild sheep, Red deer, Siberian marmot and many species of birds and more.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Must see places</u> – Khustai national park, Kharkhorin, Erdenezuu monastery, Tsenkher hot spa, Khorgiin Togoo volcano and Terkhiin tsagaan lake, Tuvkhun monastery, Orkhon waterfall, Manzushir monastery, Gorkhi-Terelj national park, Ugii lake, Orkhon valley,Khuisiin naiman nuur,Chuluut river valley, Tsonjinboldog,Khugnu-Tarni national park,Shankh monastery, Taikhar rock, Choir town, Suvraga khairkhan mountain,13<sup>th</sup> century complex and Tsetserleg town Arkhangai province.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Things to do </u>–horse trekking, visit historical sites and national parks, monasteries, fishing, climbing and many more</p> <p> </p> <p><u>How to get there –</u> offroad minivan or jeep for your choice</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Central Mongolia Tours" src="/uploads/Central_mongolian_Kharkhorin.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Mongolia bird watching" src="/uploads/Central_mongolia_birds.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Live with mongolian nomads" src="/uploads/Central_mongolia_Family.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Suggested tours</strong></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/horse-riding-in-legendary-orkhon-valley-tour" target="_blank">Horse riding in legendary Orkhon valley Tour</a></p> <p> -<a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/gobi-desert-and-orkhon-valley-tour" target="_blank"> Gobi desert-Orkhon valley tour</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/fishing-in-central-mongolia-tour" target="_blank">Fishing in Central Mongolia tour</a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Related News and Topics</strong></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destination/central" target="_blank"> Mongolian travel destinations, Central Mongolia</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/best-photo-spots-of-central-mongolia" target="_blank">Best Photo spots of Central Mongolia</a></p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><span style="color:#B22222;"><strong>2 week trip in Eastern Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p><u>Why Eastern Mongolia?</u></p> <p>Because it is birthplace of Chinggis Khan, man of the millennium and untouched and unexplored destination of Eastern Mongolia. In the east, there are many small lakes attracted by birds. There are also sand dunes of Gobi in Sukhbaatar province.</p> <p>There you can</p> <p><u>Must see places </u>–Burkhan Khaldun Mountain,Gun galuut nature reserve ,Baldan Bereeven Monastery, Khangal lake, Uglugch wall, Airag ord, Altan Ovoo, Shiliin Bogd Volcano, Taliin agui, Menen steppe-Eastern Mongolian steppe, Blue lake, Khar lake, Dariganga tribe, Khurgiin Khundii</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Things to do </u>– Visiting Chinggis Khaan’s birth land, Natural parks and more, bird watching, hiking on sand dunes, horse riding, fishing, exploring tradition of nomadic life of Eastern Mongolia, especially Dariganga ethnic tribe and driving through Menen steppe.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>How to get there –</u> offroad minivan or jeep</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Eastern Mongolia tour" src="/uploads/eastern_mongolia_nomadic_life.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Eastern mongolia horse riding tour" src="/uploads/eastern_mongolia_horses.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Suggested tours</strong></p> <p> -<a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/eastern-mongolia-tour" target="_blank"> Eastern Mongolia tour</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/discovering-homeland-of-chinggis-khaan-tour" target="_blank">Discovering Homeland of Chinggis Khaan tour</a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Related News and Articles</strong> </p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destination/eastern" target="_blank">Mongolian travel destinations, Eastern Mongolia</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/activities-and-things-to-do-in-eastern-mongolia" target="_blank">Activities and Things to Do in Eastern Mongolia</a></p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><span style="color:#B22222;"><strong>2 week trip in Southern Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p><u>Why southern Mongolia?</u></p> <p>Because it is home to Dinosaur fossils and exploring ancient sea bed remains and mysterious Mongolian Gobi desert. There are rare thrives such as Mongolian bactrial camel, Mongolian antelope, Black tailed gazelle, Argal wild sheep ,Ibex ,Snow leapord and many more.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Must see places</u> – Ikh gazriin chulu, Zorgol Khairkhan, Baga gazriin chuluu, Gobi desert, Yol valley, Gobi gurvan saikhan national park, Bayan Zag, Khermen tsav, Ongi monastery, Khongor sand dune, Ikh Bogd Mountain, Orog Lake, Shargalzuut hot spa, Sainshand city and Dalanzadgad</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Things to do there</u>- experiencing famous Mongolian Gobi desert, camel riding through , taking pictures, sightseeing and hiking on wonderful creation of sand dunes and national parks in Gobi.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>How to get there</u>- by domestic flight, off road minivan or jeep</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Southern Mongolia" src="/uploads/Southern_mongolian stepp.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Monasteries Mongolia" src="/uploads/Southern_mongolian_monasteries.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Gobi_desert_mongolia " src="/uploads/Southern_mongolian_desert.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Suggested tours</strong></p> <p> -<a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/caravaning-through-desert-wonders-tour" target="_blank"> Caravanning through Desert Wonders Tour</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/classic-mongolia-photography-tour" target="_blank">Classic Mongolia Photography Tour</a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Related News</strong> </p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destination/southern" target="_blank">Mongolian tourist destination, Southern Mongolia</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/mongolian-gobi-through-the-lens-of-photographer" target="_blank">Mongolian Gobi Through the Lens of Photographer</a></p> <p> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><span style="color:#B22222;"><strong>2 week trip in Northern Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p><u>Why northern Mongolia?</u></p> <p>Because it is land of Tsaatan people, reindeer herders and beautiful Khuvsgul lake national park. There you can see many historical sites and burial monuments, many big rivers and lakes and true wild nature.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Must see places</u> –Amarbaysgalant monastery, Khuvsgul lake, Darkhad valley, Uushig Deer stone, Uran togoo volcano,T engis river, Delger rivers, Darkhad tribe, Erdenet city and Darkhan city. The Khubsgul Lake is inhabited by moose, reindeer, argali, Siberian ibex, red deer, many species of bird and fish.</p> <p> </p> <p><u>Things to do</u> – trekking mountains, exploring and visiting unique tradition of reindeer herders, their unchanged way of lives,</p> <p> </p> <p><u>How to get there</u> –by domestic flight, off road minivan or jeep.</p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Khovsgol lake mongolia" src="/uploads/Northern mongolia Khovsgol lake.jpg" style="width: 800px; height: 514px;" /></p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="Tsaatan people at northern mongolia" src="/uploads/Northern mongolia tsaatan people.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Suggested tours</strong></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/pioneering-in-khuvsgul-taiga-wilderness-trekking-tour" target="_blank">Pioneering in Khuvsgul Taiga wilderness trekking tour</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/photo-tour-to-mystical-reindeer-herders-in-mongolia" target="_blank">Photo Tour to Mystical Reindeer Herders in Mongolia</a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Related Topics and News</strong></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/destination/northern" target="_blank"> Mongolian travel destinations, Northern Mongolia</a></p> <p> - <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/my-epic-journey-to-taiga-mountains-of-northern-mongolia" target="_blank">My Epic Journey to Taiga Mountains of Northern Mongolia</a></p> <p> </p> <h2><span style="font-size:18px;"><span style="color:#B22222;">Two - Week Mongolia Tour Itinerary</span></span></h2> <p style="text-align: justify;">Many travelers disregard the actual size of Mongolia, and its landscape until they arrive and end up regretting the choices they made in the planning stage and decided to come back travel in Mongolia. So, considering Mongolia is so vast, the problem becomes how to travel in a 2 weeks of time, and where to visit in Mongolia?</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ayan travel-team of local travel experts organizing discovery and adventure oriented tours for group, incentives and individuals. We offer 2 week trip program that cover best travel places, must see attractions of Mongolia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">What are you waiting for? Take the next step and get your Mongolia trip planning by Ayan travel. Let Ayan travel team be as your Mongolia Travel guide. We always try provide a chance to encounter authentic nomadic life and adventures activities that Mongolia has to offer proudly.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tailormade" target="_blank">Be directly connect to our tailor made programs if you seek 2 week Mongolia tour with special interest</a>.</strong></p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'two_weeks_in_mongolia_what_to_do.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'two_weeks_in_mongolia_what_to_do', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2018-03-29 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 1 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Tips for the First Time Travelers in Mongolia', 'slug' => 'tips-for-the-first-time-travelers-in-mongolia', 'body' => '<p>Are you planning to travel to Mongolia for the first time and searching for the things to know before you visit Mongolia? <br /> Congratulations that you decide and intend to travel to the remotest, density populated, exotic and country of last remaining nomads. This was my dream to visit this beautiful country. In the city, people will allow foreigner a very wide margin, and many Mongolians don’t strictly follow all the rules either. Every province and ethnic groups have different traditions. So it is better to read or ask from your guide and local team. </p> <h2><br /> Here are "The 10 Tips for the First Time Travelers to Mongolia" </h2> <h3><br /> 1. Expectation VS Reality </h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Mongolians are nomads. The main accommodation for tourist is “Ger camp”, the traditional dwelling of the Mongols. I expected that Mongolia is the only country of nomadic people, wide steppes and offers not too many modern comforts for travelers. In facts, for instance, we stayed in tourist ger camp where we could feel good enough comfort. But not all camps are good like that. The felt cover of the Ger dwelling smells naturally during the rainy days. Please try to understand it is their traditional, long-lasting accommodation. I advise you prepare yourself if you travel in Mongolia for a multi-day trip. </p> <p>-<span style="color:#800000;"> </span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/where-to-stay-in-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Where to stay in Mongolia</span></a></p> <h3>2. Mongolian visa process</h3> <p>Do you know about the visa of Mongolia? Check out the visa-free countries <u><a href="http://www.consul.mn/eng/02visae.php" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">here</span></a></u>. If you are not a nationality from visa-free countries it has several options. <br /> First please check whether it has Mongolian embassy or consulate in your country? If yes, please go there and apply for your visa. If no please find the second option. It has a chance to get a visa at the airport. For this option, the tour operator company’s invitation is required. The process will be 2 weeks to 2 months. <br /> Finally, I recommend you to choose your right partner in Mongolia</p> <p>- <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/ultimate-checklist-for-travel-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">10 things you need to </span></a><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/ultimate-checklist-for-travel-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">know-Traveler's</span></a><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/ultimate-checklist-for-travel-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;"> Checklist </span></a></p> <p><img alt="tips for travel mongolia " src="/uploads/how to travel to mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h3>3. Mongolian weather </h3> <p>The climate in Mongolia is unpredictable. The temperature difference between day and night is extreme, especially in the Gobi, the Southern Part of Mongolia. The northern and western part of Mongolia is getting colder from the end of August. So, if you are traveling in shoulder season in Mongolia, pack your warm garments for traveling. </p> <p>- <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/best-period-to-travel-in-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Best Time to Visit Mongolia</span></a></p> <p><img alt="mongolia weather " src="/uploads/mongolia weather.jpg" /></p> <h3>4. Meals in Mongolia</h3> <p>Are you vegan, vegetarian or need gluten-free food in Mongolia? Actually, in the city of Mongolia-Ulaanbaatar has restaurants more than 50 countries meals, and ger camps in the countryside can do those kinds of foods according to your special request as soon as you pre-book it. If you choose a tented camping tour this will be quite hard, when you don’t have experienced cook. </p> <p><img alt="what to eat in mongolia " src="/uploads/what to eat in mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h3>5. Rules in the Ger </h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">It is incredible, even you’re not pre-arrangement you can visit nomadic families and they hospitalized you from the bottom of their heart. When you enter the ger never step on the threshold (Bosgo), and watch out your head to butt a lintel or door jamb. <br /> Middle and north side of the ger is an important part of the family. NO garbage, litter is ever thrown into the fire such as onionskin etc. <br /> The left side of the ger is female’s and the right side is man’s side. Northside is a sacred and holy area such as divinity. </p> <p><img alt="mongolian ger photos " src="/uploads/mongolia traditional dwelling.jpg" /></p> <h3>6. Timing in Mongolia</h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Synonymous to “Island time”. It used to have only morning and evening time when Mongolians didn't have a watch. Sunray inside the ger/yurt/ was used both as a sun clock and a calendar. Generally, elders are still using this timing today. People are less aware of time here and locals are the very relaxed attitude about it. Say your time with extra and reserves to your local team. </p> <p><img alt="mongolian ger photos " src="/uploads/ger mongolian yurts.jpg" /></p> <h3>7. Bring cash in the countryside</h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Please prefer Mongolian currency-Tugrik. By the way, during the national holidays, they have 3-5 days of rest and no bank and no currency exchange are working. In this case, it is better to change at the airport. Otherwise, the bank or exchange has a better rate. And Mongolian countryside is cash-based society and ATM in a small town might have no cash even it is the tourist peak season. Also, it has a risk of no electricity in the whole soums or towns, it can happen anytime in any place. No electricity means none of the business goes normally. </p> <h3>8. Small gifts to the children of the countryside</h3> <p>Kids are always curious and bring with you a small gift for children. My advice would be to bring them something they don’t have stationary, books, puzzles, but sweets and toys are just as fine. If you like to take pictures of them, both of the kids and adults appreciate some gifts, to be taken their photos. </p> <p>- <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/what-to-pack-for-a-trip-to-mongolia" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">What to Pack for Mongolia Trip </span></a></p> <p><img alt="nomads kids mongolia photos " src="/uploads/nomad kids mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h3>9. Tipping for staff</h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">First-time travelers always ask about the amount of tips for their local staffs. <br /> Though by definition a tip is never legally required, it is recommended when you are on tour. This is not spoiling the market or running hospitality, it is simply being fair. Tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the tour to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. Tipping in hotels and restaurants is up to the individual, 10% never goes wrong here.</p> <h3>10. Find Mongolian Tour Company</h3> <p>Finally, I advise you to choose a local tour company that offers a reasonable price and good service. So how to find a good local tour operator in Mongolia? Consider your travel purpose, budget and experience of the local company. For me, I searched on the internet and then filtered them by my travel interest. There are similar agencies found on google and I sent email them and then compared their responses, experiences, reliability and specialties. For me, I chose <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">this company</span></a> because I prefer adventure and photography specialist. </p> <p> </p> <p><img alt="travel agency in mongolia " src="/uploads/best travel agency in mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>I hope this advice may helpful for you and your Mongolia Trip would be great even if you are a first timer in Mongolia. </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'tips_for_travel_to_mongolia.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'tips_for_travel_to_mongolia', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2018-02-23 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ) ) $latestBlogs = array( (int) 0 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'THE GOLDEN EAGLE HUNTERS OF MONGOLIA: Family, Tradition, and Survival in the Altai Mountains', 'slug' => 'golden-eagle-hunters-mongolia', 'body' => '<p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai_egale_hunters_bayan_olgii_aimag.jpg" /></p> <h3 style="font-style: italic;">Written from over twenty years of travel, photography, and collaboration with eagle hunting families in western Mongolia.</h3> <p>Long before eagle festivals became known internationally, the relationship between Kazakh eagle hunters and the Altai Mountains had already existed for generations.</p> <p>This culture was never created for tourism. It was shaped slowly through mountain life, winter survival, horses, hunting traditions, family responsibility, and the vast landscape of western Mongolia itself.</p> <p>The first time I watched an eagle hunter riding beneath the high Altai mountains with a golden eagle on his arm, something immediately felt natural about the scene — almost like seeing a fish return to water. The mountains, the horse, the eagle, and the rider did not feel separated from one another. They belonged together.</p> <p>Over the past twenty years working in tourism and photography across Mongolia, I came to understand that this feeling is also what attracts so many visitors to the Altai. People are not simply coming to see an eagle. They are trying to experience a living cultural world that still remains deeply connected to place, family, and landscape.</p> <p>I did not grow up inside this tradition myself. I was born in Zavkhan province in central Mongolia and come from a Khalkh Mongolian background. In many ways, I first encountered the eagle hunters as an outsider too — with curiosity and respect, much like the travelers who arrive in the Altai for the first time. Over the years, however, that curiosity gradually became a deeper understanding of how unique and fragile this cultural world truly is.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_Hunters_Mongolia_Eagle_training.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="585" data-section-id="1ultx4g" data-start="553">A Culture Shaped by the Altai</h2> <p>Not everyone becomes an eagle hunter.</p> <p>Among Kazakh families of the Altai, eagle hunting is not simply a hobby or performance. Knowledge is often passed from father to son, from older brother to younger brother, and between generations over long periods of time. The tradition carries patience, responsibility, and years of lived experience.</p> <p>The culture itself could only have emerged in a place like the Altai. Horses, open valleys, winter conditions, hunting traditions, and the rhythm of nomadic life all shaped the world in which eagle hunting survived. Even today, seeing an eagle hunter riding through the mountain valleys still feels inseparable from the landscape around him.</p> <p>An eagle itself is also far more than a symbol displayed during festivals.</p> <p>Keeping a golden eagle requires constant care, feeding, training, and attention throughout the year. During the warmer seasons, many eagles live outside. But in winter, the eagle often lives inside the family home itself, occupying its own place in the western-southern side of the ger or house.</p> <p>Caring for the bird becomes part of everyday family life. Children help feed and look after the eagle. Women clean the surrounding space and participate in its daily care. Over time, the eagle becomes part of the household itself.</p> <p>This is one reason why eagle hunting culture cannot be understood only through competitions or photographs alone. Behind every eagle hunter stands an entire family helping carry the tradition forward.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Old_Eagle_hunters-Mongolia-Sagsai-Mountain.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="613" data-section-id="1q1yn22" data-start="587">A Changing Modern World</h2> <p>Like many traditional ways of life around the world, the eagle hunter culture of the Altai is also changing.</p> <p>Several hunters from remote regions have spoken quietly about leaving the tradition behind — not because they stopped respecting it, but because keeping an eagle has become increasingly difficult. Feeding and caring for the birds requires time, money, and constant effort. Hunting opportunities have also changed over time as wildlife regulations, modern economic realities, and daily life in the Altai have gradually shifted.</p> <p>Families living far from tourism routes often face even greater challenges. Some hunters explained that they eventually had to focus more on raising livestock and supporting their families rather than continuing to keep eagles as previous generations once did.</p> <p>In the past, eagle hunting was closely tied to survival and winter hunting in the mountains. Today, the world surrounding the Altai hunters is no longer the same.</p> <p>Like many remote regions facing rapid modernization, the Altai is also changing quickly, bringing both new opportunities and new pressures for local communities.</p> <p>Yet the culture still remains alive.</p> <p>Not because it has stayed frozen in the past, but because families continue adapting while trying to protect what matters most.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai_young_eagle_hunter_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="645" data-section-id="1gjetbc" data-start="615">Why Gatherings Still Matter</h2> <p>For generations, eagle hunters gathered seasonally not only to compete, but also to meet one another, exchange knowledge, maintain relationships between families, and continue a shared cultural identity connected to the Altai.</p> <p>Modern eagle festivals grew naturally from this deeper tradition of gathering.</p> <p>Today, these gatherings remain important not only for visitors, but also for the hunters themselves. Preparing for the festival becomes part of the yearly rhythm of many eagle hunting families. It creates pride, motivation, and recognition within the community itself.</p> <p>The festivals are also larger than the competitions alone.</p> <p>Women present traditional handicrafts and handmade work. Children perform music and cultural programs. Young artists display drawings and paintings inspired by their homeland and heritage. Many of these children may become the next generation who continue carrying the culture forward in different ways.</p> <p>In this sense, the eagle festivals are not simply performances for tourists. They remain living community gatherings connected to the wider cultural world of the Altai.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Golden_eagle_festival_mongolia_womans_art.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="672" data-section-id="j0wo5h" data-start="647">Tourism and Continuity</h2> <p>Tourism alone cannot preserve culture.</p> <p>But when done respectfully, it can help traditions remain economically meaningful in a changing world.</p> <p>For some families today, introducing travelers to their eagles and way of life has become one of the few realistic ways to continue keeping the tradition alive while remaining in the Altai itself.</p> <p>For Mongolia’s tourism industry, the eagle festival season also arrives at an important time of year. Much of the country’s tourism remains concentrated between June and August. The eagle festivals of September and October create opportunities beyond the short summer season — not only for travelers, but also for remote western communities.</p> <p>Families build guest gers. Local drivers find work. Horse owners, craftsmen, musicians, cooks, and herding families all become part of the wider cultural economy surrounding the festivals.</p> <p>Today, new roads are reaching Sagsai. Small tourism camps are beginning to appear. Some eagle hunter families are preparing additional guest spaces beside their homes. These changes may seem small, but they represent something important: the possibility that local people can continue living with dignity while remaining connected to their own traditions.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunters_items_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="695" data-section-id="1iubqz3" data-start="674">The Role of Sagsai</h2> <p>For this reason, the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival has always meant more to us than a tourism event alone.</p> <p>Sagsai is not simply an administrative district. It is one of the cultural centers of Mongolia’s Kazakh eagle hunter world. Many of the country’s eagle hunting families continue living there, and we believed it was important for visitors to experience this culture closer to the communities where it still survives most strongly.</p> <p>Even the prizes given during the festival reflect a philosophy we have tried to protect.</p> <p>For many years, the festival’s top winners have been awarded horses rather than modern machinery or vehicles. This choice was intentional. We hope the image of the horse-mounted eagle hunter remains part of the Altai landscape for generations to come.</p> <p>The goal has never been to create mass tourism.</p> <p>The goal is to help people understand why this culture matters — not only to the Kazakh eagle hunters themselves, but also to Mongolia’s cultural identity and to the future of the Altai region.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Three_hunters_with_horses.jpg" /></p> <h2 data-end="715" data-section-id="j62i49" data-start="697">Looking Forward</h2> <p>Today, the golden eagle hunters of Mongolia stand at an important moment between continuity and change.</p> <p>Roads are arriving. The modern world is expanding. Younger generations are growing up differently from their grandparents.</p> <p>Yet in the mountains of the Altai, there are still mornings when an eagle hunter rides across open valleys beneath snow-covered peaks with his bird raised against the cold wind — a sight that still feels inseparable from the land itself.</p> <p>Preserving that relationship may become one of the quiet cultural responsibilities of our generation.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunters-Mongolia-Sagsai-Mountain.jpg" /></p> <p>Experience the Eagle Hunter Traditions of the Altai</p> <p>Explore our curated journeys into western Mongolia and experience the living culture of the Kazakh eagle hunters respectfully and responsibly through the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'golden_eagle_hunters_mongolia_Blog_news.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'golden_eagle_hunters_mongolia_Blog_news', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2026-05-27 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 1 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Snow Leopard Photography Expeditions in Mongolia', 'slug' => 'snow-leopard-photography-expeditions-mongolia', 'body' => '<h2>What Real Field Experience Looks Like</h2> <p>At dawn, the mountains are silent except for the sound of wind crossing frozen rock.</p> <p>A tracker stops suddenly and studies a distant ridgeline through binoculars. Nobody speaks. Cameras remain lowered. Sometimes nothing appears for hours. Sometimes for days.</p> <p>This is what a real snow leopard photography expedition in Mongolia feels like.</p> <p>Not a safari. Not a guaranteed wildlife encounter. But a field-based experience shaped by patience, weather, altitude, and the unpredictable movement of one of the world’s most elusive predators.</p> <p>Photographing snow leopards in the wild remains one of the most demanding forms of wildlife photography on Earth.</p> <p>A Mongolia snow leopard photography expedition requires physical endurance, adaptability, and the willingness to accept uncertainty in remote mountain terrain where sightings can never be guaranteed.</p> <p>Yet meaningful encounters still occur for those willing to observe carefully, move patiently, and spend time in the mountains on the animal’s terms.</p> <h3>How Our Snow Leopard Photography Expeditions Took Shape</h3> <p>Ayan Travel began operating dedicated snow leopard photography expeditions after many years of leading wildlife-focused journeys across western Mongolia.</p> <p>As a Mongolia-based expedition team, we saw growing interest from serious international photographers seeking authentic field experience rather than structured wildlife tourism.</p> <p>Over time, it became clear that snow leopard photography could never follow fixed sightseeing logic.</p> <p>Routes, timing, and daily movement had to remain flexible, adapting constantly to weather, terrain, tracking conditions, and the natural behavior of the animal itself.</p> <p>Our approach gradually evolved through repeated field expeditions, direct observation, and years spent working in Mongolia’s remote mountain ecosystems.</p> <p>This philosophy was shaped in part through the long-term wildlife fieldwork of photographer and expedition leader Batzaya Choijiljav, whose years documenting Mongolia’s wildlife helped establish an expedition approach centered on patience, realism, ethical practice, and respect for the animal above all else.</p> <p>Today, the same principles continue to define how every Ayan Travel snow leopard photography expedition operates.</p> <h3>From Fieldwork to Photography Books</h3> <p>Years spent in snow leopard habitat eventually evolved into long-term photography and publishing work.</p> <p>Photographer and expedition leader Batzaya Choijiljav later published large-format snow leopard photography books shaped through years of repeated field expeditions in Mongolia’s remote mountain ecosystems.</p> <p>The same philosophy continues to shape how Ayan Travel operates its snow leopard photography expeditions today.</p> <h3>What a Real Snow Leopard Photography Expedition Feels Like</h3> <p>Preparation begins long before entering the mountains.</p> <p>Participants receive detailed guidance on winter clothing systems, physical readiness, camera equipment, altitude considerations, and mental expectations.</p> <p>Snow leopard photography requires as much patience internally as it does technical skill behind the camera.</p> <p>Once in the field, days revolve around tracking and observation.</p> <p>Local trackers scan distant slopes for fresh movement, paw prints, prey behavior, and subtle signs hidden within the terrain.</p> <p>Photographers spend long hours studying ridgelines through binoculars and telephoto lenses, often in temperatures ranging between –20°C and –30°C.</p> <p>Elevation typically varies between 2,500 and 3,100 meters.</p> <p>Terrain is steep, rocky, and physically demanding.</p> <p>Equipment is heavy.</p> <p>Movement is deliberate.</p> <p>Some days involve climbing several ridges through deep snow only to find old tracks disappearing into broken cliffs.</p> <p>Fingers freeze quickly while changing camera settings.</p> <p>Wind cuts across exposed slopes.</p> <p>Hours pass behind binoculars without movement.</p> <p>Then suddenly, everything changes in seconds.</p> <p>Snow leopard habitat is never empty.</p> <p>Siberian ibex move carefully across distant cliffs. Argali appear briefly against open slopes. Ravens circle silently in rising wind.</p> <p>These moments matter because they reveal the larger mountain ecosystem the snow leopard belongs to.</p> <p>Then, on certain mornings, the tracker lowers his binoculars slightly and gestures quietly.</p> <p>A shape moves slowly across a distant ridge.</p> <p>A pale body against fractured rock.</p> <p>For a few brief moments — sometimes only seconds — the entire mountain narrows to a single presence.</p> <p>No fences. No vehicles. No noise.</p> <p>Only distance, cold air, and a rare animal moving freely through its natural world.</p> <p>Moments like this cannot be manufactured.</p> <p>They can only be earned through patience, field discipline, and time spent in the mountains.</p> <h3>Ethics and Responsibility in Snow Leopard Photography</h3> <p>Ethical practice remains central to every Ayan Travel snow leopard photography expedition.</p> <p>Snow leopards are never chased, pressured, baited, or approached aggressively.</p> <p>Maintaining appropriate distance is non-negotiable.</p> <p>Photography should never alter the animal’s natural behavior.</p> <p>Success is not measured only by photographic proximity, but by whether the animal remains undisturbed and able to continue naturally within its environment.</p> <p>Our expeditions operate with the understanding that we are visitors within the animal’s territory.</p> <p>The mountain dictates pace.</p> <p>Distance, restraint, and patience are essential parts of ethical snow leopard photography.</p> <h3>What We Have Learned from the Field</h3> <p>Through repeated snow leopard photography expeditions in Mongolia, we have learned that:</p> <p>Snow leopard sightings can never be guaranteed.</p> <p>Patience and observation matter more than speed.</p> <p>Accepting uncertainty often leads to the most meaningful experiences.</p> <p>Small group sizes significantly improve field efficiency and flexibility.</p> <p>Respect for the animal always matters more than the photograph itself.</p> <p>These lessons continue to shape how we design and operate our expeditions today.</p> <h3>Who This Expedition Is Designed For</h3> <p>This snow leopard photography expedition is designed for photographers who understand that meaningful wildlife work requires uncertainty.</p> <p>It is for individuals comfortable in remote winter conditions, physically demanding terrain, and long periods of observation.</p> <p>It is for photographers who value authenticity over convenience and field experience over guarantees.</p> <p>This is not a casual sightseeing tour or a guaranteed-sighting wildlife trip.</p> <p>Small group sizes are intentionally maintained to preserve flexibility, minimize environmental disturbance, and maximize field efficiency in the mountains.</p> <h2><span style="font-size:24px;">Why Mongolia Remains One of the Last True Frontiers for Snow Leopard Photography</span></h2> <p>Mongolia offers something increasingly rare in modern wildlife tourism: scale, isolation, and uncertainty.</p> <p>Vast mountain terrain, limited infrastructure, and low tourism pressure still allow snow leopards to move largely undisturbed across enormous landscapes.</p> <p>Unlike heavily commercialized wildlife destinations, success here depends less on infrastructure and more on patience, local field knowledge, weather, timing, and time spent in the mountains.</p> <p>This combination of scale, climate, and unpredictability continues to make Mongolia one of the last true frontiers for snow leopard photography.</p> <p>Serious wildlife photographers continue to seek Mongolia not for guarantees, but for authenticity.</p> <h2><span style="font-size:24px;">If You Are Considering Joining a Snow Leopard Photography Expedition in Mongolia</span></h2> <p>If you are looking for a highly structured wildlife tour with predictable outcomes, this may not be the right expedition.</p> <p>But if you are seeking a real snow leopard photography expedition in Mongolia led by a Mongolia-based team with long-term field experience in the Altai Mountains, we invite you to explore our upcoming departures.</p> <p>Some expeditions end with only tracks in the snow.</p> <p>Others offer a brief moment that remains unforgettable for the rest of your life.</p> <p>The mountains decide which one you receive.</p> <p>Your role is simply to arrive prepared.</p> <p>Explore Our Snow Leopard Photography Expeditions in Mongolia</p> <p>Small winter departures led by a Mongolia-based expedition team with long-term field experience in Mongolia’s remote Altai Mountains.</p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Snow_leopard_expedions_Mongolia.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Snow_leopard_expedions_Mongolia', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2026-05-21 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 2 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival vs. the October Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia: Which Experience Fits Your Trip?', 'slug' => 'sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-vs-october-golden-eagle-festival-mongolia', 'body' => '<p class="isSelectedEnd">Travelers planning an eagle festival journey in western Mongolia are often surprised to discover that the experience can vary significantly depending on where — and when — they go. In reality, the experience can feel very different depending on where — and when — you go. Although these festivals are often grouped together online, the September Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival and the larger October Golden Eagle Festival period near Ölgii offer distinctly different atmospheres, travel rhythms, and photographic experiences.</p> <p>Neither is necessarily “better.” The right choice depends largely on what kind of journey you are looking for. Western Mongolia is also home to several smaller local eagle hunting gatherings, but this article focuses only on the two festival experiences most commonly considered by international travelers planning an eagle festival tour in Mongolia.</p> <h2><span style="color:#A52A2A;">The October Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia</span></h2> <p><img alt="Calling Eagle" src="/uploads/October_golden_eagle_festival_pic.jpg" /></p> <p>The October Golden Eagle Festival holds an important place in the development of Mongolia’s cultural tourism history. Over many years, it became one of the country’s earliest internationally recognized travel events and helped introduce the eagle hunting traditions of western Mongolia to visitors from around the world.</p> <h3>A Large-Scale Cultural Festival Atmosphere</h3> <p>The festival atmosphere during early October is energetic and large in scale. Depending on the year and location, visitors may encounter many eagle hunters, cultural performances, spectators, traditional music, artisan trade, and a broad public festival environment surrounding the competitions.</p> <p>For many first-time travelers to Mongolia, this dramatic atmosphere is part of the attraction itself — horses crossing open valleys, hunters in heavy fur clothing, cold wind moving through the Altai landscape, and, in some years, early snow arriving across the mountains.</p> <p><img alt="Golden Eagle Bayan-Olgii" src="/uploads/golden_eagle_festival_parade_october.jpg" /></p> <h3>Kazakh Crafts, Markets, and Cultural Energy</h3> <p>The larger October festival period also creates opportunities to experience Kazakh craft traditions more broadly, including handmade hunting equipment, embroidery, fur work, traditional clothing, and local artisan markets around the festival grounds.</p> <p>Over time, the October festival also grew through the work of local eagle hunter communities, provincial organizers, and early tourism initiatives developed by companies such as Nomadic Expeditions, which helped introduce eagle hunting culture of western Mongolia to international tourism audiences.</p> <p><img alt="Eagle Hunters Mongolia" src="/uploads/moments_golden_eagle_festival_october.jpg" /></p> <h3>Important Travel Information About the October Festival Period</h3> <p>Travelers planning around the October festival period should also note that, in recent years, more than one festival event has taken place during the same weekend in different locations and under different organizing groups.</p> <p>One event is traditionally organized near Sayat Tolgoi (Sayat Hill) with provincial involvement, while another has also been organized separately in the Sharnuur area.</p> <p>Because these events happen during the same weekend, schedules, participant presence, transport logistics, and overall atmosphere can vary depending on the specific event and year.</p> <p>The October festival period can also place significant pressure on local infrastructure. Flights into Bayan-Ölgii often become heavily booked, while accommodation availability during peak festival dates may become limited due to the large concentration of visitors arriving during the same period.</p> <h2><span style="color:#A52A2A;">The Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival</span></h2> <p><img alt="Mongolia Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival " src="/uploads/SAGSAI_FESTIVAL_opening.png" /></p> <p>The Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival takes place annually on September 17–18 in Sagsai soum of Bayan-Ölgii province. Rather than developing around a large public festival atmosphere, Sagsai gradually formed its own identity through long-term collaboration with local eagle hunter families and a stronger focus on photography, documentary travel, and cultural immersion.</p> <h3>Why Many Photographers Prefer the Sagsai Festival</h3> <p>The overall rhythm is quieter and more personal. Many travelers are drawn to the feeling of space around the event — open mountain landscapes, fewer visual distractions, and more opportunities to observe interactions between hunters, families, horses, and eagles beyond the main competition moments themselves.</p> <p>For photographers, the environment is often one of the strongest reasons for choosing Sagsai. The festival grounds are positioned within wide open landscapes with mountain backdrops and a cleaner visual environment that allows for more natural compositions and less crowd interference around the field.</p> <p>Sagsai is generally experienced less as a mass public gathering and more as a field-oriented cultural environment shaped around observation, atmosphere, and time spent within the surrounding landscape and community.</p> <p><img alt="Sagsai festival documentary Photography" src="/uploads/Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_photography_sesion.jpg" /></p> <h3>September Weather and Travel Advantages</h3> <p>The September timing also changes the overall travel experience significantly. Roads across western Mongolia are generally easier to access, daylight hours remain longer, and travelers often combine the festival with broader journeys through the Altai Mountains or the Gobi before colder October weather begins affecting some seasonal routes and camps.</p> <p>Many returning photographers and documentary travelers also appreciate the consistency of the Sagsai festival structure, including its fixed annual timing and single festival location, which can make long-distance travel planning considerably easier.</p> <p>Rather than trying to become the largest eagle festival in Mongolia, the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival developed around a more personal atmosphere shaped through long-term relationships with local eagle hunter families in western Mongolia.</p> <p><img alt="Ayan Travel Eagle Festival" src="/uploads/Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_Ayan_travel.png" /></p> <h2>Practical Travel Information for Both Eagle Festivals</h2> <p>Both festival periods typically use Ölgii town as the main accommodation base, with travelers flying from Ulaanbaatar into Ölgii Airport.</p> <p>Flights to western Mongolia are limited and often become heavily booked during festival periods, particularly in early October, so advance booking is strongly recommended.</p> <p>Most visitors stay in hotels, guesthouses, or ger camps in and around Ölgii before traveling daily to the festival grounds.</p> <ul> <li> <p>Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival: approximately 35 km from Ölgii</p> </li> <li> <p>October Golden Eagle Festival locations: generally closer to Ölgii depending on the year and location</p> </li> </ul> <p>Traditional Kazakh meals and local food are commonly available at both festival grounds throughout the event days.</p> <h3>Comparing Photography Conditions at Mongolia’s Eagle Festivals</h3> <p>The answer depends entirely on what kind of photography experience you are looking for.</p> <p>The October Golden Eagle Festival offers a larger public atmosphere, more visible cultural activity, greater crowd energy, the possibility of snow and winter scenery, and a strong festival spectacle.</p> <p>The Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival offers cleaner visual backgrounds, more open space, easier movement around the field, less crowd interference, and more documentary-style interaction and observation.</p> <p>Some photographers are drawn to the energy and winter atmosphere of October, while others prefer the quieter rhythm and visual openness of Sagsai.</p> <p><img alt="Eagle Festival Photography tour" src="/uploads/Sagsai_festival_eagle_hunters.png" /></p> <h2>Choosing the Right Eagle Festival Experience in Western Mongolia</h2> <p>In reality, these festivals are not competing versions of the same trip.</p> <p>The October Golden Eagle Festival offers a dramatic large-scale public gathering atmosphere connected to one of Mongolia’s best-known cultural tourism events.</p> <p>The Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival offers a more photography-oriented and immersion-focused experience shaped around observation, atmosphere, and closer interaction with local eagle hunter families and landscapes.</p> <p>Some travelers come for the spectacle.</p> <p>Others come for the space between moments.</p> <p>Both continue to play important roles in preserving and sharing the traditions of Kazakh eagle hunting in western Mongolia.</p> <h2><img alt="" src="/uploads/Eagle_festival_evening_Shooting.png" /></h2> <p>As one of the organizers of the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival, AYAN Travel works closely with local eagle hunter families, guides, and photographers throughout western Mongolia. Travelers interested in either the September Sagsai festival or the larger October festival period can contact our team for current schedules, travel planning, and photography-focused journeys across the Altai region.</p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_Mongolia_hunters.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_Mongolia_hunters', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2026-05-20 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 3 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Inside the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia', 'slug' => 'sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-mongolia', 'body' => '<p><img alt="Sagsai Eagle Festival" src="/uploads/Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_Parade.jpg" /></p> <p data-end="213" data-start="55">Every autumn, travelers from around the world arrive in Mongolia hoping to witness one of the last great horse-and-eagle traditions still alive today.</p> <p data-end="463" data-start="215">Most travelers know it simply as the Golden Eagle Festival, but in recent years another name has become increasingly recognized among photographers, filmmakers, documentary teams, and returning cultural travelers — the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival.</p> <p data-end="866" data-start="465">Held annually on September 17–18 near Sagsai soum in Bayan-Ulgii Province, the festival has gradually become one of Mongolia’s most distinctive cultural and photography-focused events. Unlike festivals built mainly around crowds and tourism, Sagsai still feels closely connected to the mountains, nomadic life, eagle hunter families, and the daily rhythm of Kazakh culture in the Altai region.</p> <p data-end="1221" data-start="868">Rather than feeling like a performance separated from local life, the festival grows naturally from the landscape and the people who continue this tradition today. Over the years, it has also become closely connected with photography expeditions, documentary projects, and long-term collaborations with eagle hunter families throughout western Mongolia.</p> <p><img alt="Sagsai" src="/uploads/Sagsai_Eagle_festival_opening_.png" /></p> <h2> </h2> <h2>WHAT IS SAGSAI?</h2> <p data-end="1479" data-start="1247">Sagsai is both the name of a river valley and a soum (administrative district) in Bayan-Ulgii Province in western Mongolia. The region is widely known as one of the most important centers of Kazakh eagle hunting culture in Mongolia.</p> <p data-end="1746" data-start="1481">Today, more than 80 active eagle hunters live throughout Sagsai and the surrounding areas. Many are connected through the Sagsai Eagle Hunter Association, which plays an important role in preserving local eagle hunting traditions and organizing the annual festival.</p> <p data-end="1930" data-start="1748">Since first being established in 2018, the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival has continued growing each year while still maintaining a strong connection to local eagle hunter communities.</p> <p data-end="2146" data-start="1932">Among the best-known eagle hunters from the region is Serik Jenisbek, whose images have become internationally recognized through documentaries, photography projects, and cultural productions from around the world.</p> <p><img alt="Eagle hunter Jenisbek" src="/uploads/Sagsai_golden_Eagle_festival_jenisbek.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h2>A FESTIVAL DESIGNED AROUND THE LANDSCAPE</h2> <p>One of the defining characteristics of the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival is the way the festival grounds are organized in harmony with the surrounding environment.</p> <p>Rather than creating a visually crowded arena dominated by vehicles and modern infrastructure, the festival is carefully arranged so the mountains and open valley remain part of the experience itself. Spectators gather in an open semi-circular viewing area while eagle hunters and horse riders perform against a backdrop of open terrain and surrounding mountain slopes.</p> <p>Parking areas, vendor sections, and support facilities are intentionally positioned away from the primary viewing environment so photographers and visitors can experience the competitions without heavy visual distraction. For photographers and filmmakers, this creates something increasingly rare — the opportunity to document eagle hunting culture in a landscape that still feels timeless.</p> <p><img alt="Sagsai Eagle festival Mongolia" src="/uploads/Sagsai_nomadic_festival_game.png" /></p> <p> </p> <h2>WHEN THE EAGLE HUNTERS APPEAR</h2> <p>For many visitors, the most unforgettable moment of the entire festival happens at the very beginning.</p> <p>As the opening ceremony approaches, the valley gradually grows quiet before long lines of eagle hunters on horseback begin appearing one after another from the folds of the surrounding mountains. Nearly a hundred riders descend together carrying golden eagles on their arms as they move slowly toward the festival grounds.</p> <p>For first-time visitors, the moment can feel almost unreal. Some travelers stand frozen between raising their cameras and simply watching in silence while others quietly wipe tears from their eyes.</p> <p>Against the open valley and mountain backdrop, the riders eventually form a great circle together before the crowd, their horses moving beneath raised eagles as if ancient horsemen had emerged directly from the Altai Mountains themselves. Only after this dramatic arrival does the official festival opening truly begin.</p> <h2>THE COMPETITIONS</h2> <p>At the center of the festival are the eagle hunting competitions themselves — events that combine horsemanship, eagle handling, speed, discipline, and deep trust between hunter and bird.</p> <p>One of the most dramatic competitions takes place high along the mountain slopes above the valley. An eagle hunter waits below on horseback while another person assists from the mountainside above, releasing the hunter’s eagle from a distant ridge.</p> <p>As the hunter calls from below using the familiar voice and calls recognized by the bird, the eagle circles through the mountain air before descending rapidly toward its owner. In one competition, the eagle must return directly to the hunter’s arm. In another, the eagle is released toward a fox skin dragged behind a galloping horse across the valley floor.</p> <p>Traditional horseback games also form an important part of the festival. Riders compete in horseback coin pickup games requiring speed, balance, and precision, while another major competition involves horsemen battling to seize and carry a goat skin across the field in a traditional Central Asian horseback contest demanding strength, endurance, and horsemanship.</p> <p>Another beloved event is the traditional horseback game between young men and women, where couples race side by side across the open field in a playful competition combining speed, humor, beauty, and horsemanship.</p> <p><img alt="Sagsai Golden eagle festiva" src="/uploads/Kazakh_eagle_hunters_during_Sagsai_festival.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h2>MORE THAN AN EAGLE FESTIVAL</h2> <p>Although eagle hunting remains the heart of the festival, the atmosphere surrounding Sagsai reflects a much broader picture of Kazakh nomadic culture.</p> <p>Before the official opening begins, nomadic families arrive across the valley with camels, horses, cattle, sheep, and goats before setting up their gers near the festival grounds. Women display handmade embroidery and traditional crafts while local artisans and merchants organize cultural market areas featuring regional products and handmade goods.</p> <p>Throughout the festival, visitors can attend cultural concerts performed by local musicians, dancers, and children from Sagsai and Bayan-Ulgii Province. Traditional Kazakh music, including the sound of the dombra and performances such as Khaira Jorga, become part of the atmosphere across the festival grounds.</p> <p>For many visitors, these moments become just as memorable as the competitions themselves.</p> <p><img alt="Eagle hunter Mongolia Sagsai Festival" src="/uploads/Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_eagle_hunters_portrait.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <h2>WHY MANY PHOTOGRAPHERS PREFER SAGSAI FESTIVAL</h2> <p>Over the years, the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival has become increasingly recognized among photographers and documentary filmmakers searching for a more open and visually immersive festival environment.</p> <p>Part of this comes from the landscape itself — open mountain backdrops, cleaner visual space, fewer modern distractions, and natural movement across the surrounding valley. The festival layout is intentionally designed to preserve visual openness rather than creating heavily crowded viewing environments.</p> <p>Many photographers first arrive for the festival itself before later returning for winter eagle hunting expeditions, mountain portrait sessions, family stays, and long-term documentary projects throughout the Altai region.</p> <p>For visual storytellers, Sagsai offers a rare balance between cultural authenticity, visual clarity, and strong photographic atmosphere.</p> <p><img alt="Altai Mongolia Eagle hunters" src="/uploads/EAGLE_calling_game_sagsai_photo.jpg" /></p> <h2> </h2> <h2>TRAVEL TIMING ADVANTAGES</h2> <p>The timing of the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival also creates important travel advantages for visitors exploring western Mongolia more broadly.</p> <p>Because the festival takes place earlier in September, travelers often still have favorable conditions for visiting the Altai Mountains before heavier snowfall begins in higher mountain passes later in autumn. This makes it easier to combine the festival with journeys into places such as Altai Tavan Bogd National Park.</p> <p>The earlier timing also allows travelers to combine the festival with Gobi Desert journeys while many seasonal camps and tourism facilities across southern Mongolia are still operating before winter closures begin in October.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Tourist_and_eagle_hunter_mongolia_sagsai_festival.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="Mongolia Sagsai Golden Eagle festival" src="/uploads/Sagsai_Golden_eagle_festivals_wiiners.png" /></p> <h2> </h2> <h2>HOW TO ATTEND THE SAGSAI GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL</h2> <p data-end="574" data-start="460">The Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival takes place annually on September 17–18 near Sagsai soum in Bayan-Ulgii Province.</p> <p data-end="711" data-start="576">Because accommodations, domestic flights, and local family stays are limited during the festival period, early planning is recommended.</p> <p data-end="797" data-start="713">Many travelers join <u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-tour-mongolia"><span style="color:#0066ff;">organized festival departures</span></a></u> or photography tours that include:</p> <ul data-end="1024" data-start="799"> <li data-end="839" data-section-id="9a28nu" data-start="799">Domestic flights to western Mongolia</li> <li data-end="864" data-section-id="s1jfy3" data-start="840">Local transportation</li> <li data-end="884" data-section-id="1wt3w8q" data-start="865">Festival access</li> <li data-end="915" data-section-id="13lvjye" data-start="885">Eagle hunter family visits</li> <li data-end="951" data-section-id="k50ndo" data-start="916">Photography-focused experiences</li> <li data-end="981" data-section-id="f3u72b" data-start="952">Altai Mountain excursions</li> <li data-end="1024" data-section-id="vlygfi" data-start="982">Traditional Kazakh cultural activities</li> </ul> <p data-end="1177" data-start="1026">Small-group journeys are especially popular among photographers and travelers looking for a deeper cultural experience beyond the main festival itself.</p> <p data-end="1423" data-start="1179">Since first launching the festival in 2018, Ayan Travel has worked together with local eagle hunter families and the Sagsai Eagle Hunter Association to help develop and preserve the festival as one of western Mongolia’s leading cultural events.</p> <p data-end="1596" data-start="1425">Today, <u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/company-profile"><span style="color:#0066ff;">Ayan Travel</span></a></u> remains the festival’s main organizer, creating cultural journeys, festival departures, and photography-focused experiences throughout the Altai region.</p> <p data-end="1777" data-start="1598">If you are interested in attending the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival, visiting eagle hunter families, or exploring western Mongolia can plan your journey with us. </p> <p data-end="1777" data-start="1598"> </p> <p data-end="1777" data-start="1598"> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_photo.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_photo', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2026-05-19 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 4 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Inveiling the Enchanting Gobi Desert', 'slug' => 'inveiling-the-enchanting-gobi-desert', 'body' => '<p>Welcome to the Mongolian Gobi Desert, a land of awe-inspiring landscapes that stretch across endless horizons. Discover the Mongolian Gobi Desert, a vast landscape of stunning sand dunes, rocky formations, and serene oases. Experience nomadic hospitality in traditional ger camps and witness Mongolian herding rituals. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot rare species like Bactrian camels and wild asses, while history buffs explore dinosaur fossils at the Flaming Cliffs. Adventurers can enjoy camel trekking and off-road drives across diverse terrain. At night, marvel at fiery sunsets and the Milky Way. Throughout the year, from scorching summers to frosty winters, the Gobi showcases its ever-changing beauty. Indulge in traditional Mongolian cuisine amidst this tranquil desert setting and support sustainable tourism initiatives.</p> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of Mongolia's Gobi Desert</strong></span></h3> <p>Discover Mongolia's Gobi Desert, a vast expanse of ever-changing landscapes where towering sand dunes, some over 200 meters tall, shift gracefully with the wind. Millennia of erosion have sculpted the desert into a canvas of unique geological formations, revealing ancient history in each stratified layer of rock.</p> <p>Its iconic features are rocky outcrops and the dramatic granite peaks of the Gurvan Saikhan Mountains, home to rare wildlife like the snow leopard and endangered Gobi bear. The Flaming Cliffs, or Bayanzag, stand out for their rich fossil beds, where paleontologists have unearthed dinosaur eggs and bones, vividly preserving a prehistoric world.</p> <p>Despite its harsh environment, the Gobi supports diverse life, including hardy desert flora like saxaul trees and resilient grasses, showcasing nature's adaptability in extreme conditions. </p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Gobi_desert_Nomadic_life.jpeg" /></p> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Wildlife Wonders of Mongolia's Gobi Desert</strong></span></h3> <p>Explore Mongolia's Gobi Desert and its diverse wildlife, showcasing nature's resilience in one of Earth's toughest terrains. Meet the iconic Bactrian camel, famed for its dual humps and ability to thrive in sparse vegetation and extreme climates. The desert is also home to endangered Gobi khulans and Mongolian gazelles. At the same time, overhead soar majestic raptors like vultures and eagles, alongside desert-dwelling birds such as the Pallas's sandgrouse, enriching the region's biodiversity. Among its enigmatic residents is the rare Gobi Bear, "Mazaalai," uniquely adapted to endure extreme temperatures and scarce water, highlighting the desert's allure for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers alike.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Gobi_argali_sheep_wildlife_mongolia.png" /></p> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Legends and Mongolia's Rich Cultural <strong>Heritage</strong></strong></span></h3> <div> <p>The nomadic herding culture of Mongolia's Gobi Desert is rich with traditions deeply tied to the land. Nomads primarily herd sheep, goats, horses, camels, and yaks, moving seasonally in search of pasture and water. Traditional ger camps, circular tents made of wood, felt, and canvas, serve as their homes, providing winter warmth and summer ventilation. Hospitality is central, with visitors welcomed warmly and offered traditional dairy products like airag, suutei tsai, and aaruul. Meals shared with nomadic families feature hearty dishes such as buuz, khuushuur, and various mutton dishes. Interacting with local herders offers insights into their daily lives, including tasks like milking animals and preparing for seasonal migrations, showcasing their deep knowledge of the Gobi's natural resources and survival skills.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Visit_mongolian_family.jpg" /></p> </div> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Echoes of Antiquity</strong></span></h3> <p>Step into the Mongolian Gobi Desert, a land steeped in archaeological wonders that reveal millennia of human history. This rugged landscape offers profound insights into ancient civilizations that thrived amidst its harsh yet captivating terrain. At the Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag), renowned for their dinosaur fossils, paleontological expeditions have uncovered a wealth of skeletons, eggs, and other relics dating back millions of years. These discoveries illuminate the evolution and behavior of dinosaurs, offering a glimpse into a prehistoric world that once inhabited this ancient realm. Delve into the Gobi's archaeological marvels and embark on a journey through time, where each fossil unearthed tells a compelling story of our planet's past.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Mongolian_dinosaures.png" /></p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/MOngolian_gobi_flames.jpg" /></p> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Thrilling Pursuits in Mongolia's Gobi Desert</strong></span></h3> <p>Embark on an unforgettable journey into Mongolia's Gobi Desert, where adventure awaits at every turn. Whether trekking atop camels across towering sand dunes, hiking to discover hidden oases, or experiencing the adrenaline rush of off-road desert driving, you'll immerse yourself in a vibrant tapestry of experiences blending excitement, exploration, and the raw beauty of nature.</p> <p style="margin-left:36pt;">1. Camel Trekking: Ride atop camels along ancient routes through shifting sand dunes, experiencing history and culture intertwined with the desert landscape.</p> <p style="margin-left:36pt;">2. Hiking to Hidden Oases: Explore rugged terrain to uncover lush green paradises hidden within the desert, offering tranquility and life-giving waters.</p> <p style="margin-left:36pt;">3. Off-Road Desert Driving: Navigate challenging sand dunes and rugged landscapes in 4x4 vehicles for an exhilarating adventure that connects you deeply with the untamed wilderness.</p> <p>In the Gobi Desert, adventure beckons from every horizon, promising unforgettable moments and a profound connection with one of the world's most awe-inspiring landscapes.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Gobi_camel_riding_sand_dune.png" /></p> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Celestial Symphony</strong></span></h3> <p>Step into Mongolia's Gobi Desert, where each evening paints a natural masterpiece. Breathtaking sunsets streak the sky with crimson, orange, and gold, casting reflections across tranquil waters or rugged landscapes. As twilight deepens, city lights fade, revealing a pristine night sky ablaze with stars.</p> <p>Far from urban glare, the Gobi Desert is a sanctuary for celestial enthusiasts. Constellations emerge in full glory, captivating stargazers and astrophotographers alike. It's a chance to witness the universe in its purest form, where each twinkling light tells a story of cosmic wonder and endless possibilities.</p> <p>Experience the spectacle of sunset and night skies in the Gobi Desert, where nature's beauty unfolds and the stars above invite contemplation of the cosmos. Here, you can stay in a "millions of stars" hotel, far from the typical luxury, yet offering an unparalleled connection with the natural world. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Mongolian_gobi_desert_night_star.jpg" /></p> <h3 align="center"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Exploring Mongolian Cuisine in the Gobi Desert</strong></span></h3> <p>Delve into the heart of Mongolian cuisine, a culinary journey shaped by nomadic traditions and the rugged Gobi Desert. Dairy products like airag, suutei tsai, yogurt, and cheese are staples, reflecting a deep connection to the land. Meat is central, with dishes like bansh, buuz, and khorkhog showcasing mutton, beef, and occasionally horse meat for hearty sustenance in harsh conditions.</p> <p>Grains like wheat and barley become staples such as bread and noodles, providing essential carbohydrates. Wild foods from the Gobi, including herbs and plants, add unique flavors and nutritional diversity. Travelers on Gobi Desert tours can enjoy authentic Mongolian meals, each dish a testament to cultural heritage and adaptation to the environment. Whether dining in a ger camp or amidst the desert, every bite tells the story of Mongolia's culinary richness and the resilience of its people. </p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Mongolian_traditional_foods.png" /></p> <h3 align="center" style="margin-left: 36pt;"><span style="font-size:18px;"><strong>Gateway to Adventure</strong></span></h3> <p>Embarking on a journey to Mongolia's captivating Gobi Desert is surprisingly accessible with several convenient options for travelers:</p> <ul> <li>Guided Tours from Ulaanbaatar: <ul> <li>Organized tours from Mongolia's capital offer diverse itineraries lasting from a few days to over a week.</li> <li>Tours typically include transportation via robust 4x4 vehicles or domestic flights, accommodation in ger camps or tents, meals, and knowledgeable guides.</li> </ul> </li> <li>Transportation Choices: <ul> <li>Domestic Flights: Direct flights from Ulaanbaatar to Dalanzadgad near the Gobi Desert provide a swift option. Further transport arrangements can then be made locally.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Mongolian_gobi_blog_news_.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Mongolian_gobi_blog_news_', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2024-06-25 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 5 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'The Naadam Festival: Mongolia's National Celebration', 'slug' => 'the-naadam-festival-mongolias-national-celebration', 'body' => '<p><strong>Overview</strong><br /> The Naadam Festival, also known as "Eriin Gurvan Naadam" (the Three Manly Games), is Mongolia's largest and most significant celebration. Held annually in mid-July, this event dates back centuries and features traditional Mongolian sports, including wrestling, horse racing, and archery. For tourists, attending Naadam offers a unique glimpse into Mongolia's rich cultural heritage and an immersive experience in the country's vibrant traditions.</p> <p><strong>History and Significance</strong><br /> Naadam's origins trace back to the era of Genghis Khan, serving as both a celebration of the nation’s strength and a way to train warriors. Today, Naadam commemorates Mongolia's independence and the formation of the Mongolian People's Republic in 1921. The festival is not just a sports competition; it’s a celebration of Mongolian identity and cultural pride.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Naadam_festival_opening_mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><strong>Key Activities and Events</strong></p> <ol> <li><strong>Opening Ceremony</strong><br /> The Naadam Festival kicks off with a grand opening ceremony at the National Sports Stadium in Ulaanbaatar. This event features traditional music, dances, parades, and an elaborate display of Mongolia’s military history. The opening ceremony is a spectacle of color and culture, providing a captivating start to the festivities. </li> <li><strong>Wrestling (Bökh)</strong><br /> Wrestling is the most prestigious event in Naadam. Hundreds of wrestlers from across the country compete in a knockout tournament. Matches are accompanied by traditional songs and rituals, and the wrestlers wear distinctive costumes called "zodog" and "shuudag." Watching these matches offers insight into Mongolia’s deep respect for strength and endurance.</li> <li><strong>Horse Racing</strong><br /> Unlike Western horse racing, Mongolian horse races during Naadam cover vast distances, often between 15 to 30 kilometers. The jockeys are typically children aged 5 to 13, showcasing their extraordinary riding skills. The races are held in the open steppe, providing a dramatic and picturesque setting for the event.</li> <li><strong>Archery</strong><br /> Archery competitions at Naadam demonstrate the traditional skills of Mongolian warriors. Archers, both men and women, use a "compound" bow, aiming at small targets from a significant distance. The sport is steeped in ritual and tradition, with competitors wearing traditional attire.</li> <li><strong>Traditional Games and Cultural Performances</strong><br /> Besides the main sports, visitors can enjoy various traditional games such as anklebone shooting (shagai) and performances including folk songs, dances, and throat singing. These activities allow tourists to experience Mongolia’s cultural diversity and artistic heritage.</li> </ol> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Naadam_opening_ceremony_horse_riders.jpg" /></p> <h2><span style="font-size:22px;"><strong>Practical Information for Tourists</strong></span></h2> <ol> <li><strong>When to Visit</strong><br /> The Naadam Festival officially takes place from July 11 to 13. However, related events and celebrations can start a few days earlier and last a few days longer. Arriving in Ulaanbaatar a couple of days before the festival begins will ensure you don’t miss any preliminary events. </li> <li><strong>Where to Stay</strong><br /> Ulaanbaatar offers a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Booking well in advance is recommended due to the high influx of tourists during Naadam. Some popular options include the Shangri-La Hotel, Blue Sky Hotel, and Kempinski Hotel Khan Palace.</li> <li><strong>Getting There</strong><br /> Direct flights to Ulaanbaatar are available from several major cities, including Beijing, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Tokyo, and Seoul. Chinggis Khaan International Airport is the primary gateway to Mongolia.</li> <li><strong>Tickets and Entry</strong><br /> Tickets for the Naadam opening ceremony and main events at the National Sports Stadium can be purchased online or through travel agencies. It’s advisable to buy tickets early as they sell out quickly. Many travel packages also include tickets as part of the itinerary.</li> <li><strong>Local Customs and Etiquette</strong><br /> Respect local customs by dressing modestly and asking for permission before taking photographs of people. Learning a few basic Mongolian phrases, such as "Sain baina uu" (Hello), "Bayarlalaa" (Thank you) and "Saikhan Naadaarai" (Happy Naadam) will be appreciated by locals.</li> <li><strong>Health and Safety</strong><br /> Ulaanbaatar is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to take common precautions such as safeguarding valuables and staying aware of your surroundings. Drink bottled water to avoid potential stomach issues, and be prepared for a range of weather conditions.</li> </ol> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Naadam_festival_parad.png" /></p> <p><strong>Additional Attractions</strong><br /> While in Mongolia, consider exploring other attractions such as the Gobi Desert, the ancient capital of Kharkhorin, and the serene beauty of Lake Khövsgöl. These destinations offer a broader understanding of Mongolia’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.</p> <p>The Naadam Festival is a perfect blend of sport, culture, and history, making it a must-visit event for any traveler to Mongolia. By immersing yourself in this vibrant celebration, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the Mongolian spirit and way of life. Plan ahead, embrace the adventure, and enjoy the timeless traditions of the Land of the Eternal Blue Sky.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Naadam_close.png" /></p> <h2> </h2> <h2><span style="font-size:22px;"><strong>Difference Between Mongolia's State Festival and Local Festivals:</strong></span></h2> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><strong>- Mongolia's State Festival (Naadam)</strong></span></h3> <ol> <li><strong>Scale and Significance:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>National Importance:</strong> Naadam is Mongolia's most significant national festival, celebrated on a grand scale across the entire country.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Government Involvement:</strong> The state festival is organized with the involvement of the government, including the President and other high-ranking officials.</p> <ol> <li value="2"><strong>Location and Timing:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Location:</strong> The main celebrations are held in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, particularly at the National Sports Stadium.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Date:</strong> The festival officially takes place annually from July 11 to 13.</p> <ol> <li value="3"><strong>Activities:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Main Events:</strong> Known as the "Three Manly Games," the main events include wrestling, horse racing, and archery.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Cultural Events:</strong> The festival features elaborate opening and closing ceremonies, cultural performances, concerts, and traditional games.</p> <ol> <li value="4"><strong>Participants:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Elite Competitors:</strong> The top wrestlers, horse racers, and archers from all over Mongolia come to compete.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>International Audience:</strong> It attracts both national participants and a significant number of international tourists.</p> <ol> <li value="5"><strong>Atmosphere:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Festive and Grand:</strong> The atmosphere is grand, festive, and highly patriotic, with extensive media coverage.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Naadam_horse_racing_game.png" /></p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"> </p> <h3><span style="font-size:22px;"><strong>- Local Naadam Festivals</strong></span></h3> <ol> <li><strong>Scale and Significance:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Regional Importance:</strong> Local festivals are significant for individual regions, provinces (aimags), or even smaller communities like soums (districts).</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Community Focused:</strong> These festivals reflect local customs, traditions, and community pride.</p> <ol> <li value="2"><strong>Location and Timing:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Location:</strong> Held in various provinces and towns across Mongolia.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Date:</strong> Dates vary; many local Naadam festivals are held before or after the national Naadam to allow participants to travel to the capital for the main event.</p> <ol> <li value="3"><strong>Activities:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Similar Events:</strong> Local festivals also feature wrestling, horse racing, and archery, though on a smaller scale.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Local Traditions:</strong> Additional activities may include local music, dance performances, and traditional ceremonies unique to the region.</p> <ol> <li value="4"><strong>Participants:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Local Competitors:</strong> Participants are typically local residents, including young athletes and community members.</p> <p style="margin-left:72pt;"><strong>Local Audience:</strong> The audience mainly consists of local residents and some domestic tourists.</p> <ol> <li value="5"><strong>Atmosphere:</strong></li> </ol> <p style="margin-left:54pt;"><strong>Intimate and Traditional:</strong> The atmosphere is more intimate and community-oriented, often with a stronger emphasis on local traditions and customs.</p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Naadam_national_festival_ceremony.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Naadam_national_festival_ceremony', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2024-06-24 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 6 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'Adventure awaits in Mongolia - Lonely Planet's Best Travel Destination of 2024 ', 'slug' => 'adventure-awaits-in-mongolia-lonely-planets-best-travel-destination-of-2024', 'body' => '<p>Lonely Planet ranks Mongolia as the best travel destination in 2024 among 50 countries highlighting its unique appeal and diverse experiences. Uncover the beauty and traditions that make Mongolia a must-visit country in the upcoming year. </p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/mongolia-best-travel-destinatin-by-lonely-planet.jpg" /></p> <p>In Mongolia, you can immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique nomadic experiences. Enjoy traditional folk music, savor local cuisines, and embrace the essence of Mongolian identity during the <u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news?tag=naadam-festival"><span style="color:#0066ff;">Naadam Festival</span></a></u><span style="color:#0066ff;">.</span></p> <p>Feel the spirit of freedom through horseback riding and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cultural Landscape in Orkhon Valley, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wNK2HBQT6pI?si=B7_ePdwPZ3GlSVZh" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p> <p>Ayan Travel, with two decades of tour operating expertise, tailors your Mongolia adventure. Specializing in photography and adventure tours, we guide you to witness the Naadam Festival in central Mongolia, explore the vast Gobi Desert, experience eagle hunting culture in west Mongolia, journey to the remote Taiga mountains to meet the Tsaatan, reindeer herding people, and shamans in northern Mongolia.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Your unforgettable and uniquely crafted journey awaits in Mongolia. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tailormade"><span style="color:#0066ff;">Contact your travel specialist now</span></a><span style="color:#0066ff;">. </span></u></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Lonely_planet_best_destinations_2024_mongolia_cover.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Lonely_planet_best_destinations_2024_mongolia_cover', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2023-12-20 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 7 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => ' Photos of Adorable Manul, The Pallas's Cat in Mongolia', 'slug' => 'photos-manul-pallas-cat-mongolia', 'body' => '<p style="text-align: justify;">In collaboration with World Wildlife Day March 3, the Ayan Travel team has decided to share with you the photos of the adorable Pallas's cat <span style="text-align: justify;"><em>(Otocolobus manul)</em> </span>known as Manul, in its wild habitat, captured by Mongolian photographer Batzaya Choijiljav. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Surprisingly, most people don’t know well that Pallas’s cat shares their mountain habitat with its near-big cousin<span style="color:#008000;"> </span><u><span style="color:#0099ff;">S</span><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/photography-of-snow-leopards-in-mongolias-wild-west" target="_blank"><span style="color:#0099ff;">now leopards</span></a><span style="color:#0099ff;">.</span></u> if you are a photographer, planning a <u><span style="color:#0099ff;">wildlife </span><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/tours/mongolia-photography-tours" target="_blank"><span style="color:#0099ff;">photo trip to Mongolia</span></a><span style="color:#0099ff;"><strong> </strong></span></u>for Snow leopards, you can capture these amazing wild cats on the same trip in Mongolia. <span style="text-align: justify;">This adorable flat-faced and furry wild cat is very little known compared to other subspecies of the family </span><em style="text-align: justify;">Felidae</em><span style="text-align: justify;">. </span>Maybe you have seen these lovely wild cat's faces featured in many memes and viral videos. Mongolia is one of the few countries you can eyewitness these secretive and solitary wild cats in Central Asia. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="manul pallas cat mongolia" src="/uploads/Manuul_Pallas_s_cat_manul.jpg" /></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px;"><em>Pallas’s cat is similar in size to a domestic cat but it looks much bigger because of its stocky build and its long and thick coat, fluffy tail, and flattened face.</em></span></p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Pallas's Cat - </span></strong><span style="color:#008000;">Quick Facts </span></span></h3> <p><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Kingdom</span> -</strong><span style="color:#008000;">Animalia </span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Name: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">Pallas's Cat</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Mongolian name: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">Мануул</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Scientific name: </strong></span><em><span style="color:#008000;">Otocolobus manul</span></em></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>IUCN Status:</strong></span> <font color="#008000">Least Concern</font></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Population: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">Total estimated: 58,000</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color:#000000;">Location</span>: </strong><span style="color:#008000;">Central Asia</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Habitats: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">mountains, steppe grasslands that has rocky outcrops., and semi-desert terrain. </span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Diet: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">In Mongolia Pallas’s Cat eats a broad range of small mammals (Ochotona, Alticola, Meriones, Lasiopodomys, Cricetulus), insects, birds, reptiles, and carrion.</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Body Length: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">46-65 cm</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Weight: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">2.2-4.5 kg</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Mating Season: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">December to March</span></p> <p><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Lifespan: </strong></span><span style="color:#008000;">8-11.5 years</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><img alt="mongolia pallas cat photography" src="/uploads/Manuul_manul_pallas_cat.jpg" /></p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Pallas's Cat in Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p style="text-align: justify;">Although the Manul is found throughout central Asia, its habitat is a very specific and harsh environment. It lives on rocky steppes and stony outcroppings only and is rarely seen in lowland areas. It has been found at altitudes up to 4,800m but only in areas where deep snow does not accumulate. They make their dens in caves, crevices, or burrows dug by other animals.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">German naturalist Peter Pallas first described the furry wildcat in 1776. He named the kitty Felis manul. As its scientific name- (<em>Otocolobus manul)</em>, the word ‘<em>manu</em>l’ comes from the Mongolian language and <em>Otocolobus</em> is Greek for “ugly-eared.”</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Manuul_manul_pallas_cat_mongolia_wild.jpg" style="opacity: 0.9; text-align: center;" /></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px;"><em>Pallas’s cat moves slowly but purposefully, concealing itself within its environment and blending into the background.</em></span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Pallas's cats are ambush hunters and spend much of their time hunting pikas as mouse hares, murines, ground squirrels, and voles are also eaten, and also small birds, grasshoppers and lizards, and other critters like gerbils, voles, hares, ground squirrels, birds, and young marmots. Pikas typically make up more than 50 percent of the cat's diet.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="mongolia wild cat manuul" src="/uploads/Pallas_cat_mongolia_photography_batzaya.jpg" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-size:14px;">According to the IUCN Red List, the total population size of the Pallas’s cat is estimated at 15,315 mature individuals. This species’ numbers are decreasing today and it is classified as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List</span></em>.</p> <h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family:arial,helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="color:#000000;"><strong>Photographing the Pallas's cat in Mongolia</strong></span></span></h3> <p>Palla’s cats were believed to be primarily nocturnal, but are now being considered crepuscular in nature. Palla's cat is a shy and very antisocial animal. Without the help of an experienced local guide or researcher, it is almost impossible to encounter this rare creature in Mongolia. They have an extraordinary ability to hide within their own habitat. Even their markings and coloration allow them to easily blend with their surroundings which makes it uneasy to spot them without an experienced Mongolian wildlife photo tour agency.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/manul_pallas_cat_mongolia_wildlife.jpg" style="opacity: 0.9; text-align: center;" /></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px;"><em>Once we see the startling aspects of its appearance, it becomes clear that the Pallas's cat is in fact rather handsome and adorable. </em></span></p> <p>If you especially wish to see and photograph Pallas's cats in Mongolia with their lovely kittens, it is better to plan your trip to Mongolia between May to August. Because they mate between December and March; the females typically give birth between the end of March and May. Kittens become independent by four to five months, until then they are with their mother. But hope you know the challenges of wildlife photography. You can spend a long time waiting for an animal to come into the spot and then it simply turns around, leaves and that's the end of it. However, these challenges are also part of what makes <u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/wildlife-photography-discover-mongolian-wild-side" target="_blank"><span style="color:#0099ff;">Mongolian wildlife photography</span></a></u> so rewarding.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="pallas cat photography in mongolia" src="/uploads/Manuul_manul.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Finally, this rare creature is listed as a 'near-threatened' species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). One of the main reasons for its decreasing population is the hunting for their fur and organs, which are used in traditional medicines. Moreover, it's one of the least studied cats in the world. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Manuul_mongolian_wildlife_tour_manul.jpg" /></p> <p>We wish to increase both Mongolian and global awareness about Pallas’s cats and build on the knowledge of their natural history and threats. As we gain knowledge of them, we can love, save and protect them. Today is World Wildlife Day. We hope you<strong><span style="color:#008000;"> #DoOneThing for Palla’s cat</span></strong> can be either sharing this blog with those who don’t know about this rare creature or making your own efforts in its conservation.</p> <p> </p> <h3 style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="color:#008000;"><span style="font-family:times new roman,times,serif;">The Future of Wildlife is in Our Hands. </span></span></strong></h3> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="mongolia snow leopard tour with batzaya choijiljav" src="/uploads/Mongolia_snow_leopard_tour_for_social_distance.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><u><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/photography-of-snow-leopards-in-mongolias-wild-west" target="_blank"><span style="color:#0099ff;">You may be interested in Story About Snow Leopard in Mongolia’s Wild West </span></a></u><span style="color:#0099ff;"> </span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Manul_manuul_pallas_cat_mongolian_wildlife.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Manul_manuul_pallas_cat_mongolian_wildlife', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2023-03-03 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 8 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => 'The result of Snow leopard field survey is released in Mongolia', 'slug' => 'snow-leopard-field-survey-is-released-in-mongolia', 'body' => '<blockquote>Mongolia released the results of its first nationwide Snow Leopard survey, showing that there are 953 (806 – 1127) of these adult big cats inhabiting about 328,900 square km area of Altai, Sayan, Khangai Mountain ranges in Mongolia. This is the first innovative methods and covering a large area of field study of snow leopard in the world. And the study confirms that Mongolia has become the second largest snow leopard population in the world.</blockquote> <div> <div dir="auto"> <blockquote> <p>WWF-Mongolia and other partner organizations, with support from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism Mongolia successfully completed the large-scale study to determine the current range and the population size of snow leopard in Mongolia. During the 3 years of field survey, 15 snow leopards were collared, and 1,475 camera traps deployed at 29 mountains which provided photographic evidence of the elusive big cats across the habitat, confirming their presence. </p> <p><span style="color:#696969;"><span style="font-size:14px;"><em><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-style: italic;">News source: WWF-Mongolia. 17 March.2021</span></em></span></span></p> </blockquote> </div> </div> <div> <div dir="auto"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Wild_nature_mongolia_snow_leopard.jpg" /></div> <div dir="auto"><span style="font-size:14px;"><em>Snow Leopard habitat in west Mongolia.They live in the high mountain ranges up to 3,000-4,000 meters above the sea level In Mongolia. © Batzaya Choijiljav</em></span></div> <div dir="auto"> </div> <div dir="auto">One of the most elusive cats on the planet, known as “ghost of the mountains” the snow leopard is just found in the remote high mountains of central Asian 12 countries, including Mongolia. A high mountain predator, magnificent snow leopards, living in the snowy mountains and keeping their home healthy. Named as the third pole, the central Asian snowy mountains keep the third largest clear water resource of our planet, where the snow leopards live. They are the true guardians, sadly just about 6,000 snow leopards left in wild. </div> <div dir="auto"> </div> <div dir="auto"><img alt="" id="" src="/uploads/Wild_snow_leopard_mongolia.jpg" /></div> <div dir="auto"><span style="font-size:14px;"><em>You are seeing one of the 953 wild snow leopards of Mongolia in its wild mountain habitat. © Batzaya Choijiljav</em></span></div> <div dir="auto"> </div> </div> <div> <div dir="auto">It is not that easy to find this well camouflaged cat in it wild habitat. Also it must be not that easy to complete this large-scale study. Really appreciate the great job which professionals made it successfully. </div> <div dir="auto"> </div> <div dir="auto"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Mongolia_snow_leopard.jpg" /></div> <div dir="auto"><em style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgb(27, 45, 59); font-family: Hind, sans-serif; font-size: 17px; text-align: justify;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-size: 14px;">The Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) in Western Mongolia in January, 2020. © Batzaya Choijiljav</span></em></div> <div dir="auto"> </div> <div dir="auto">We, the Ayan Travel has also been contributing the snow leopard conservation with our photography projects which aim to raise awareness of this beautiful cat to the locals and the world. Learn more about the snow leopard and our remarkably successful trip to photograph it in West Mongolia. Please visit here <strong><a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/photography-of-snow-leopards-in-mongolias-wild-west" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Photography of Snow Leopard in Mongolia’s Wild West</span></a><span style="color:#800000;">. </span></strong>If you would like to join us to this campaign, please feel free to contact us and we are open to the further cooperation. </div> <div dir="auto"> </div> <div dir="auto"><span style="color:#800000;"><em>Created:17 March, 2021</em></span></div> <div dir="auto"> </div> <div dir="auto"> </div> </div> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Snow_leopard_mongolia_cover1.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Snow_leopard_mongolia_cover1', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2021-03-17 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 9 => array( 'Node' => array( 'title' => '5 Reasons you will love Sagsai in western Mongolia', 'slug' => '5-reasons-you-will-love-sagsai-in-western-mongolia', 'body' => '<p>Sagsai is home to the eagle hunting tradition, where most Kazakh eagle hunters live and the village is named as river Sagsai. Travelers love most about eagle hunting tradition, but may have little information about its environs that support the old traditions both the falconry and nomadic culture. People also may have heard about the falconers but may little know about eagle falconers’ daily living that shows the unique culture. There are also many to tell the reasons to love Sagsai, but here we choose to tell you the reasonable fives.</p> <h3><span style="color:#008080;">1. Great hospitality</span></h3> <p>Nomadic people are known as the most hospitable ones because of their traditional way of living. Kazakh hospitality traditions have much in common with those of other nomadic cultures, all of which have a very respectful attitude to guests. Hosting begins with warm greeting, and the guests are invited to seat the most honorable place of the family. After that, the guests were treated with milk tea, various snacks, and Kazakh cuisines.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_family_visit.jpg" /></p> <p>No matter the visitors are invited or not, they are strangers or not, no matter they stay there in a short period of time or for days, Kazakh family offers great hospitality to all the visitors, treating with what they have. It is said that Kazakh people believe in some strange sayings that “the family cries and they might be unlucky when guests not to visit their home” so Kazakh family offer their last meals to their guests, even they don’t have enough food for them. Also every Kazakh family has a dombra, the traditional musical instrument. They love to play dombra for the guests and it is really heart warming aspect of their hosting. When you visit Sagsai you can experience their unique culture and feel this amazing hospitality.</p> <p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gho8VU9lrHM" width="100%"></iframe></p> <hr /> <h3><span style="color:#008080;">2. Nomadic eagle falconers</span></h3> <p>There are many countries where the falconry is still practicing in the world today. But the old tradition, the classic form of eagle falconry is in western Mongolia; when the winter comes falconer goes for a hunt the wild mammals with his trained eagle on horseback to the mountains and while they are living in nomadic way of life.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_Golden_eagle_hunters.jpg" /></p> <p>In westernmost region of Mongolia, there are about 250 eagle hunters who practice this traditional eagle falconry and most of them are living in Sagsai village. They care for eagles while caring for the domestic herds, migrating 3 to 4 times a year for looking for the better pastures. The combination of the two traditional cultures is still living in Sagsai which is not found in many places of world.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/Eagle_hunting_tour_mongolia copy copy.jpg" /></p> <hr /> <h3><span style="color:#008080;">3. The golden eagles </span></h3> <p>One of the largest birds of prey, The Golden Eagle<em> (Aquila chrysaetos)</em> has many impressive stories in human culture, the symbol of strength, courage, independence, faith and the most respected bird of many countries around the world. In Mongolia golden eagle used as a hunting bird by Kazakh nation, and is a regular resident, wild ones are occurred in most areas, mostly reside among rocks and high peaks up to 3000 m above sea level. For the trained hunter eagles, during the captivity, they live with humans in their dwelling. While you are visiting Sagsai, you can You can get closer to this magnificent bird, you will know that how smart it is, and how beautiful it is and how the avian raptor hunt prey with its human partner. This can be just amazing experience and you will love this heavenly creature.</p> <p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BRERDyx372g" width="100%"></iframe></p> <hr /> <h3><span style="color:#008080;">4. Remarkable natural habitat </span></h3> <p>Sagsai village is located on the riverbank Sagsai river, surrounded with high mountains. Altai Mountain region is one of the important habitats of wild mammals, the giant golden eagles and the nomadic people and they make the Sagsai a perfect place for keeping eagle falconry in its traditional form. The diversity of animal species in the Mongolian Altai region and the levels of endemism can be lower than in the tropical zones, but the particular assemblages of species and the intact functioning ecosystems are found nowhere else in the world.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/sagsai_wildlife.jpg" style="float: left; max-width: 49%; margin-right: 10px; " /></p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_wildlife_manuul.jpg" style="float: right; max-width: 49%;" /></p> <p style="clear: both"> </p> <p>This remarkable natural habitat has been supports the livelihood of nomadic peoples along with their culture that relates to the hunting wild animals with golden eagles. But in last years, the natural environments have been affected by desertification, over grazing and some modern infrastructures which threatens both the wildlife and falconry culture. To love this tradition and natural habitat is to conserve them. So it is time to aware and preserve both nature and culture for sustaining the healthy relationship of human and nature.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_beautiful_nature.jpg" /></p> <hr /> <h3><span style="color:#008080;">5. Photogenic eagle festival</span></h3> <p>There are many stories, pictures and publications about the incredible human culture that nestles in the remote Altai mountains in Mongolia. The golden eagle festival has been known to the world, and being one of the most attractive events in Asia. The festival allows us to see and know more about the old traditions of hunting with eagles in a short period. It gives us a chance to get deep knowledge and authentic experience of centuries-old culture in just 2 days.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Jenisbek_sagsai_golden_eagle_festival.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_eagle_festival_september.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_eagle_hunting.jpg" /></p> <p>In Sagsai village, in every September the Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival is held that also offers us great opportunity to explore and document all of these cultural experiences and in addition, there are specific sessions and programs for photographers and film makers. The Sagsai festival is not so touristy and it gives a great freedom to enjoy, also the festival directly contributes the local eagle hunters and their family who keep this wonderful tradition. </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" src="/uploads/sagsai_golden_eagle_hunter.jpg" /></p> <p>This festival is a part of the AYAN Project which aims to help preserving this vanishing culture through the art of photography. If you are interested in more about this event, please visit the page <a href="https://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/why-you-should-visit-sagsai-golden-eagle-festival-in-mongolia" target="_blank"><strong><span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 0);">Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival</span></strong></a>.</p> <p><img alt="reasons you will love sagsai" src="/uploads/sagsai_golden_eagle_festival_visit_nomad_family.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>The atmosphere of Sagsai Golden Eagle Festival </strong></p> <p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uEsnklHGwko" width="1034px"></iframe></p> <p> </p> <hr /> <p>To conclude that we got the reasons why we should love Sagsai, where one of the most hospitable people on earth living in a nomadic way of life and keeping the ancient falconry culture, where one of the most attractive festival takes place and that shows amazing heritages, where one of the most iconic wild animals inhabit that indirectly supports the humans. The place itself should be on your bucket list to travel and love.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_eagle_hunters_family.jpg" /></p> <p>At Ayan Travel, we initiated the project and this is the way we choose to help preserve these natural and cultural treasures is to raise awareness to the world by using the power of photography. If you would like to join us in this campaign, please feel free to contact us and we are open to further cooperation.</p> <p><img alt="" src="/uploads/Sagsai_entrance.jpg" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Welcome to the home of the eagle hunters and visit Sagsai with us! </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'file1' => 'Sagsai_beautiful_nature.jpg', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file1' => 'Sagsai_beautiful_nature', 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'created' => '2021-03-12 00:00:00', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ) ) $nodes = array( (int) 0 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '790', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => '"Coaxing Ritual for Baby Camels" has been inscribed in the UNESCO List of Heritage.', 'slug' => 'coaxing-ritual-for-baby-camels-has-been-inscribed-in-the-unesco-list-of-heritage', 'body' => '<p><img alt="mongolia camel rituals " src="/uploads/mongolia camel rituals.jpg" /></p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">The largest population of Bactrian camel lives in Gobi Desert of Mongolia. Herders in Mongolian Gobi region who face a problem when the female camel unexpectedly rejects her newborn colt after a particularly difficult birth. There is a tradition to coaxing ritual to encourage a female camel to accept a newborn or to adopt an orphan. The mother is tied close to the calf and a singer with traditional musical instrument “Morin huur” or “Horse fiddle” begins a monotone song accompanied by gestures and chanting. The coaxer changes the melody depending on the mother’s behavior, which may be initially aggressive, and slowly coaxes her into accepting the colt. Performance of the ritual takes place at dusk or twilight and requires great skill in handling camels, as well as talent for singing and musical skill on the horse head fiddle. Most herdswomen engage in techniques and methods of coaxing, but professional coaxers may be enlisted to undertake the ritual when a singer or musician is unavailable within the local community. The ritual acts as a symbolic medium for creating and maintaining social ties among individual nomadic families and their community. It is transmitted from parents and elders to youth through home tutoring. Today, motorcycles are preferred to camels as a means of transportation, and increasing migration to urban centers has diminished the number of young herders. The number of cultural bearers is therefore decreasing rapidly as new generations lose touch with their traditional ties to pastoral husbandry.</span></p> <p><img alt="mongolia camels " src="/uploads/camels mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="baby camel ritual " src="/uploads/baby camels ritual mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>The coaxing ritual for baby camels appeared on “Story of Weeping Camel” documentary film which was filmed by Luigi Falorni and Byambasuren Davaa and real nomad family was casted on it. After difficult birth of female camel, she reject her newborn white colt. Two boys of nomad family are sent to nearby town across desert to find musician who can perform coaxing ritual for baby camel. Their travel reach to the village and then return home with word that a musician is on the way. Coaxing ritual is performed in an effort to get the mother camel to accept her colt. Uniquely composed of equal parts reality, drama and magic, this film is a window into a different way of life and the universal terrain of the heart. </p> <p><img alt="mongolia camels movies " src="/uploads/about mongolian camels.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="mongolia camel herding " src="/uploads/mongolia camel herding.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:coaxing-ritual-for-baby-camels-has-been-inscribed-in-the-unesco-list-of-heritage', 'terms' => '{"77":"culture","100":"tourism-news"}', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '695', 'rght' => '696', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-04-22 10:45:29', 'created' => '2015-12-02 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => 'Mongolia_camel.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Mongolia_camel', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => 'Mongolia, Camel riding tour, Mongolia nomad stay tour, Mongolian Nomad family tour, Camel Festival mongolia', 'meta_description' => 'Mongolia, Camel riding tour, Mongolia nomad stay tour, Mongolian Nomad family tour, Camel Festival mongolia', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1170":"Eagle Hunting Festival and Golden Gobi-2019 tour","1173":"Gobi Desert and Orkhon Valley tour","1200":"Mongolia riding tour"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"894":"Awe-Inspiring Images Of The Gobi That Will Leave You Mesmerized","811":"Interesting Facts About Mongolian Camels ","857":"Traveler and Photographer Took Photo Journey Through the Gobi of Mongolia"}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array( (int) 0 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 1 => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 1 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '789', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => 'Hunting With Golden Eagles In Mongolia', 'slug' => 'Hunting-With-Golden-Eagles-In-Mongolia', 'body' => '<p>The Kazakh eagle hunters preserve the hundreds of year tradition of eagle hunting on horse back for foxes, marmots and even wolves. They are nomadic and move several times per year around the Altai Mountains. Western Mongolian winter is extremely COLD but incredibly beautiful. Day time temperature is often below freezing.</p> <p>Trained golden eagle and hunter through the winter is challenging permanent freezing conditions up to -40°C are commonplace. During winter time eagle hunters only hunt with their eagles when rabbits are pelted, foxes and wolves are at their most luxuriant. The trained eagles live with the trainer’s family and hunts with them for around nine years. Then released back into the wild for the rest of its life. </p> <p><img alt="eagle training mongolia " src="/uploads/5c9c9018-e048-4fd2-8f81-47a3a2f1e629-eagle training mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="mongolia eagle hunter " src="/uploads/mongolia eagle hunter.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle training mongolia " src="/uploads/eagle training.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="hunting with golden eagle mongolia " src="/uploads/hunting with eagle.jpg" /></p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;"> </span><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">If you want to visit this event or to meet some eagle hunters, please contact us. </span></p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">Related tour: <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/golden-eagle-festival-and-altai-mountain-tour"><span style="color:#800000;">Golden Eagle Festival and Altai Mountain Tour 11 days</span></a></span></p> <p><iframe align="left" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="616" hspace="2" scrolling="no" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qyxLEf3uxYU" vspace="10" width="950"></iframe></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:Hunting-With-Golden-Eagles-In-Mongolia', 'terms' => '{"47":"mongolia_travel_news","76":"destination","77":"culture","78":"festival","107":"egale-festival"}', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '693', 'rght' => '694', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-08-02 16:44:58', 'created' => '2015-11-29 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => 'Golden_eagle_hunting.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Golden_eagle_hunting', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => 'Mongolia Golden Eagle Festival, khazakh eagle hunters, trained golden eagles, Mongolia Golden Eagle Festival, Golden Eagle photography tour, Mongolia Festival trips, Eagle training, How to Train Eagles to hunt in Mongolia, Eagle training Mongolia, Aishol pan Eagle huntress, ', 'meta_description' => 'Mongolia Golden Eagle Festival, Golden Eagle photography tour, Mongolia Festival trips, Eagle training, How to Train Eagles to hunt in Mongolia, Eagle training Mongolia, Aishol pan Eagle huntress, ', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1165":" Golden Eagle Festival 2019 tour","1163":" Golden Eagle festival and Altai Mountain tour ","1170":"Eagle Hunting Festival and Golden Gobi-2019 Tour"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"891":"Exciting 2 Days at The Golden Eagle Festival 2018 in Mongolia","789":"Hunting With Golden Eagles In Mongolia","858":"Incredible Photos from Spring Golden Eagle Festival "}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array( (int) 0 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 1 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 2 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 3 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 4 => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 2 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '788', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => 'Moments From The Golden Eagle Festival In Mongolia', 'slug' => 'moments-from-the-golden-eagle-festival-in-mongolia', 'body' => '<p>Each year Kazakh hunters in Bayan-Ulgii province join the renowned Golden Eagle festival with their trained Golden Eagles, known as Berkut (Burged in Mongolian), to enter them into competitions testing speed, agility, and accuracy. Ceremonies, dance performances, traditional Kazakh games, a parade in the provincial capital’s city square, and a Kazakh play in honor of the hunters and their eagles.</p> <p>Bayan-Ulgii is the westernmost province of Mongolia bordering with Russia and China. The province is well known for the majestic Altai Mountains as well as being the home to the Kazakh nomads, who sought a sanctuary and came to join Mongolia in the early 20th century. The Kazakh nomads have their language, distinct culture and traditions.<br /> This annual Mongolian festival, which celebrates the Golden Eagle as well as the hunters’ traditional culture, is arranged by the local Kazakh community and members of the Berkut Association, a community-based conservation organization. Next year the Golden Eagle festival is on 1-2 October.<br /> One of the well-known photographers in Mongolia, Mr. Batzaya is sharing photos from his most recent trip to the Golden Eagle Festival. Mr. Batzaya is not only a photographer but also a seasoned traveler, who has extensively traveled Mongolia and the globe.</p> <p><img alt="golden eagle festival " src="/uploads/moments from golden eagle festival.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="golden eagle festival mongolia " src="/uploads/golden eagle festival photography.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle festival parade mongolia " src="/uploads/eagle festival parade mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle huntress mongolia " src="/uploads/5c9c925b-f23c-4f8d-b302-4899a2f1e629-eagle huntress mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="eagle hunting and training mongolia " src="/uploads/eagle hunting and training.jpg" /></p> <p><img alt="mongolia eagle hunters " src="/uploads/5c9c92dc-4df8-4718-acef-41afa2f1e629-mongolia eagle hunters.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:moments-from-the-golden-eagle-festival-in-mongolia', 'terms' => '{"47":"mongolia_travel_news","78":"festival","13":"photography","107":"egale-festival"}', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '691', 'rght' => '692', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-08-02 16:45:09', 'created' => '2015-11-20 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => '5d43c0b9-3bec-49b7-a52a-4d15a2f1e629-golden_eagle_festival_mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'golden_eagle_festival_mongolia', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => 'khazakh hunters, golden eagle festival, khazakh nomads, mongolian festival, travel mongolia, Mongolia Golden Eagle Festival, Kazakh people, Travel to Mongolia Eagle Festival, Eagle hunting festival tour, Photography tour to Eagle Festival Mongolia, Mongolian photographer Batzaya, Eagle photos, Eagle festival photo expedition', 'meta_description' => 'Mongolia Golden Eagle Festival, Kazakh people, Travel to Mongolia Eagle Festival, Eagle hunting festival tour, Photography tour to Eagle Festival Mongolia, Mongolian photographer Batzaya, Eagle photos, Eagle festival photo expedition', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1165":" Golden Eagle Festival 2019 tour","1170":"Eagle Hunting Festival and Golden Gobi-2019 Tour","1161":"Golden Eagle Festival and Mongol Altai Mountains Photographic Expedition"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"891":"Exciting 2 Days at The Golden Eagle Festival 2018 in Mongolia","885":"How To Take Great Photos at Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia?","821":"Mongolian Golden Eagle Festival and Eagle Hunters "}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array( (int) 0 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 1 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 2 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 3 => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 3 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '787', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => 'The 7 Best Experiences in Mongolia ', 'slug' => 'the-7-best-experiences-in-mongolia', 'body' => '<p>Dear Folks,<br /> There is some real experiences from the traveler got in Mongolia.<br /> Mongolian Adventure Tour Operator - Ayan Travel Mongolia hope, may it gives you some new idea and new travel destination.<br /> Be Experience Mongolia with us!<br /> <br /> <strong>The 7 Best Travel Experiences In Mongolia</strong></p> <p><img alt="best experiences in mongolia " src="/uploads/best experiences in mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>Mongolia, former empire of Genghis Khan, is home to one of the last nomadic, horse-based cultures in the world, as well as the home of the famous Gobi Desert in Asia. Explorers looking to adventure on the path-less-traveled should journey to experience the people of Mongolia and to discover their ancient culture in one of Asia’s few remaining pristine ecosystems. Here are seven must-see sights in Mongolia that will make you want to trek there.</p> <p><br /> <img alt="gobi mongolia " src="/uploads/5d3569cd-38b8-44f1-853f-4e8ea2f1e629-gobi desert mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p><strong>1) The Gobi Desert</strong><br /> On an expedition in the vast and dramatic Gobi Desert, travelers can explore an incredible array of unforgettable Mongolian backgrounds, including the sand dunes of Moltsog Els and the deep desert valley of Yol Valley National Park.<br /> The Gobi — which means simply “desert” — has an air of mystery, perhaps, because of its location in the heart of Asia’s most remote hinterlands between the Siberian wilderness to the north and the Tibetan Plateau to the south.<br /> Contrary to the sterile sameness the word “desert” suggests, the Gobi is home to many fascinating sights including some of the most important paleontology discoveries of this century. Explore the stunning landscape of the Gobi, habitat for Bactrian camels, Argali mountain sheep, goitered gazelle, golden eagles, saker falcons, jerboas (similar to kangaroo rats) and many endemic reptiles. The Gobi is also home to some of the Northern Hemisphere’s rarest and most elusive mammals such as the dhole, snow leopard, and Gobi bear.</p> <p><img alt="gobi desert mongolia " src="/uploads/5d3569ea-0f2c-4384-a105-4779a2f1e629-flamming cliffs mongolia.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <strong>2) The Flaming Cliffs and Important Dinosaur Fossil Discoveries</strong><br /> The Flaming Cliffs is the legendary site where the first nest of dinosaur eggs was discovered by famous American explorer and paleontologist Roy Chapman Andrews in the 1920’s. This site is also close to Tugregiin Shiree, the region where researchers unearthed the tangled remains of “The Fighting Dinosaurs,” two dinosaurs which appear to have been locked in a struggle at the time of their abrupt death. Paleontologists assert that the fossils unearthed at the Flaming Cliffs formation and surrounding area were preserved by being buried in sudden sandstorms.<br /> The Flaming Cliffs are home to remains of the velociraptor, oviraptor, protoceratops as well as several other prehistoric beasts.</p> <p><img alt="mongolia altai mountains " src="/uploads/5d35682c-d3cc-4d07-b38c-465ba2f1e629-mongolia altai mountains.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <strong>3) Visit the Altai Mountain Region</strong><br /> Ulgii, the capital of Bayan-Ulgii, is Mongolia’s westernmost province. 90 percent of the population of Bayan-Ulgii is Kazakh, Mongolia’s largest ethnic minority. The isolation of the Altai Mountains has preserved the language and traditions of the Kazakhs, who live amongst some of the most spectacular scenery in Mongolia.<br /> Before enjoying the many outdoor adventure opportunities offered in the Altai Mountains, travelers should visit the Local History Museum located in downtown Ulgii. This two-story building showcases some of the finest embroidery and artifacts collected from the region, including horse and eagle hunting accessories, hand-woven carpets and other arts and crafts. This small but impressive museum offers an excellent introduction to the history and culture of the people who have dwelled in the Altai Mountain region for more than a century.</p> <p><img alt="visit mongolia " src="/uploads/5d35688b-d514-4283-8b3c-4608a2f1e629-visit mongolia.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <strong>4) Experience a Traditional Ger</strong><br /> While in the countryside, adventures can normally stay in traditional gers, the felt tents of nomadic herders. Very similar to a yurt, gers are made of a latticed wood structure covered with layers of felt and canvas. Kazakh craftswomen are renowned for their colorful embroidery and textiles, and their gers are beautifully decorated. Handcrafted felt carpets line the floor, and delicately embroidered tapestries adorn the walls of their homes, with each design unique to a particular family.<br /> Each ger is heated by a wood stove with a smokestack through a hole in the center of the roof and furnished with beautifully painted wood-framed beds. This is the traditional home of herdsmen who must move with their animals. A ger is an easily transportable abode, but made to withstand harsh winter weather. The ger camps offer an authentic experience of Mongolian culture and provide a unique opportunity to visit areas which otherwise lack tourist accommodations.</p> <p><img alt="eagle festival mongolia" src="/uploads/5d3568c5-fa9c-4105-b7eb-4c0da2f1e629-golden eagle festival mongolia.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <strong>5) The Golden Eagle Festival</strong><br /> The Golden Eagle Festival takes place in Bayan-Uglii Province. Each year the region’s Kazakh hunters attend the festival with their golden eagles, known as “berkut”, entering them in competitions testing speed, agility, and accuracy. Ceremonies, dance performances, a parade in the provincial capital’s city square and a Kazakh play in honor of the hunters and their eagles are among the highlights of this unique adventure travel experience.</p> <p><img alt="ulaanbaatar mongolia " src="/uploads/ulaanbaatar mongolia.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <strong>6) UlaanBaatar</strong><br /> The contrast between ancient traditions and the dawn of a 21st-century democracy is most visible in Mongolia’s capital of Ulaanbaatar, where traditional gers and Buddhist monasteries coexist with modern high-rises. One of the most central attractions of this metropolis and home to chic accommodations like the Ulaanbaatar Hotel is Sukhbaatar Square. Like TianAnMen Square or the Red Square, this seemingly communist-inspired quadrangle has lots of key places nearby to visit. It is a quick walk to the Parliament House, National Museum of Mongolian History, Post Office, Monastery-Museum of Choijin Lama and more.</p> <p><img alt="naadam festival mongolia " src="/uploads/5d356944-a4b0-4e7c-b7ed-439ea2f1e629-naadam festival mongolia.jpg" /><br /> <br /> <strong>7) The Naadam Festival</strong><br /> The biggest festival in Mongolia, Naadam, is a terrific display of patriotism. Held every year in July, the holiday focus around three popular Mongolian sports: wrestling, archery and horseback riding. The opening ceremony in Ulaanbaatar features cultural celebrations, colorful costumes marches and music before kicking off the two days of sporting events. This showcase of history, tradition and sport is not to be missed. In 2010, the festival was named on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity as one of the few world traditions that is celebrated for its demonstration of Mongolian heritage. by Hailey McDonald</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:the-7-best-experiences-in-mongolia', 'terms' => '', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '689', 'rght' => '690', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-08-15 10:48:41', 'created' => '2015-06-21 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => 'travel_experiences_mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'travel_experiences_mongolia', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => 'Mongolia, Experience in Mongolia, Mongolian Travel experience, Mongolian Festival tours, Naadam festival tours, Gobi desert tours', 'meta_description' => 'Mongolia, Experience in Mongolia, Mongolian Travel experience, Mongolian Festival tours, Naadam festival tours, Gobi desert tours', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1166":" Adventures in Altai Tavan Bogd Mountains tour","1182":" Discovering Homeland of Chinggis Khaan tour ","1185":" Joyful Adventure in Khangai Region tour"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"893":"10 Photos That Show True Mongolian Winter Life ","856":"Tips for the First Time Travelers in Mongolia","844":"What to Photograph in Mongolia and When to Go "}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array(), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 4 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '785', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => 'Nomadic Mongolian Naadam Festival Days are Coming...!!!', 'slug' => 'nomadic-mongolian-naadam-festival-days-are-coming...!!!', 'body' => '<p> <span style="line-height: 1.6em;"> </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">Every summer between 10th-13th July holds Nomad's Naadam Festival across the country. This is the main traditional summer event for nomads and when time comes, people gathers in every city, town or village stadium for competing each other in Man's Three Games - Horse Racing, Archery and Wrestling or attending in festival athmosphere with their families and friends together. Also there is many traditional and modern sporting competitions are happens in same time, in other word - Mongolian Olympic Games. </span></p> <p><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">July and August are the main holiday months, but people prepare to get their holiday and leisure time during the time of Naadam Festival in July. </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">For tourists and travelers, </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">mid </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">July is the perfect timing</span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">to travel to Mongolia.also festival takes place in high tourist season, that gives lots of advantages to the travelers to enjoy with Naadam festival and before or after the event traveling somewhere around Mongolia freely.<br /> Here we offer many different type of tours, all included Local Naadam Festival somewhere in countryside or Grand Naadam Festival in UB. </span><br /> Please visit to our web site and check the rest of it ! </p> <p style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"><br /> Related tours </p> <p style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"> <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/gobi-naadam-festival-2015-tour">GOBI DESERT AND ORKHON VALLEY WITH GRAND NAADAM FESTIVAL PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR</a><br /> <span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"> <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/classic-mongolia-photography-tour">CLASSIC MONGOLIA PHOTOGRAPHY </a></span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/classic-mongolia-photography-tour">TOUR</a><br /> <span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;"> </span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/mongolia-naadam-festival-2016-tour">MONGOLIA NAADAM FESTIVAL-2016 TOUR</a><br /> <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/mongolia-highlights-tour-with-naadam-festival-2016">MONGOLIA HIGHLIGHTS TOUR WITH NAADAM FESTIVAL-2016</a><br /> <a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/tour/naadam-festival-and-gobi-desert-tour" style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">NAADAM FESTIVAL AND GOBI DESERT TOUR</a></p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:nomadic-mongolian-naadam-festival-days-are-coming...%21%21%21', 'terms' => '', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '685', 'rght' => '686', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-04-22 10:50:36', 'created' => '2015-05-04 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => 'Naadam Festival Days are Coming.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Naadam Festival Days are Coming', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => 'Mongolian Naadam Festival tours, Horse riding tours and Naadam festival tours, Festival tours Mongolia, Horse racing tours Mongolia, Gobi desert and Naadam tours, Southern Mongolian Naadam tours, Mongolian Grand Festival Naadam tours, Horse riding and horse racing in Mongolia tours, adventure and discovery tours Mongolia. Mongolian festival and event tours, Trans-Mongolian tours, Mongolian Naadam festival-2016 tours, Mongolia tours - naadam festival - Nomadic nation and Mongolian nomad family, Mongolian famious tourist destination gobi desert and Naadam festival tours, off road adventure tours, off the map tours, Discovery Mongolian tours, Trans-Siberian tours, Mongolian railway tours, Naadam festival group tours, Backpacking to Mongolia, Tourism Mongolia 2016,', 'meta_description' => '', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1158":"Mongolia Highlights tour with Naadam Festival-2019","1211":"Mongolia Naadam festival - 2019 tour ","1197":"Naadam to Naadam Guided Photo Tour"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"862":"Events In July In Mongolia - Don't Miss Out!","882":"Outstanding Photos of Mongolian Naadam Festival ","814":"WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT NAADAM FESTIVAL BEFORE YOU ATTEND? "}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array(), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 5 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '783', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => 'Michelle Rodriguez in Mongolia for Golden Eagle Hunting Festival', 'slug' => 'michelle-rodriguez-in-mongolia-for-golden-eagle-hunting-festival', 'body' => '<p><img alt="mongolia travel experience " src="/uploads/5c9c93f9-8e40-4f9f-90dd-4951a2f1e629-mongolia travel experience.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">F</span><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">amous Hollywood actress and screenwriter Michelle Rodriguez has attended in <strong>Golden Eagle Hunting Festival - 2014</strong> in Mongolia.<br /> She arrived in South Korea for the <strong>Asian Game-2014 </strong>held in Incheon, South Korea and after came to Mongolia for to be part of eagle hunting festival.<br /> Ms Rodriguez had great time and experienced with Mongolian Nomadic Lifestyle, Ethnic Divercity of Western Mongolia. </span><br /> <span style="line-height: 20.7999992370605px;">During the festival she said, My true genetic origin related to Mongolia. The ancestors of my mother side came from Mongolia to America, thousands of years ago during the migration, that went through Siberia and Alaska.<br /> She discovered her amazing secret, when she was doing DNA test at <strong><a href="http://www.nationalgeographic.com"><span style="color:#800000;">National Geographic</span></a></strong> scientific research.</span></p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;"><strong> <br /> Golden Eagle Hunting Festival</strong></span></p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">The annual event takes a place in Western Mongolia early October.<br /> Mongolian Khazakh nation is known to the world as an Eagle Hunters of Mongolia. </span><br /> <span style="line-height: 1.6em;">Because of their tradition of hunting animals with a well trained golden eagle, brings that honor to them.<br /> All competitors prepare their eagle hunting skill to the sharp side and bring their best golden eagles to the festival for the final title.</span><br /> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:michelle-rodriguez-in-mongolia-for-golden-eagle-hunting-festival', 'terms' => '{"47":"mongolia_travel_news","78":"festival","13":"photography","100":"tourism-news","107":"egale-festival"}', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '681', 'rght' => '682', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-08-02 16:45:19', 'created' => '2014-11-13 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => 'Michelle Rodriguez in Mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'Michelle Rodriguez in Mongolia', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => '', 'meta_description' => '', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1165":" Golden Eagle Festival 2019 tour","1163":" Golden Eagle festival and Altai Mountain tour ","1170":"Eagle Hunting Festival and Golden Gobi-2019 Tour"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"891":"Exciting 2 Days at The Golden Eagle Festival 2018 in Mongolia","885":"How To Take Great Photos at Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia?","858":"Incredible Photos from Spring Golden Eagle Festival "}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array( (int) 0 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 1 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 2 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 3 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 4 => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 6 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '782', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => '10 Facts People Should Know About Mongolia by Grace Pilet Jacobsen', 'slug' => '10-facts-people-should-know-about-Mongolia', 'body' => '<p><strong>10 Facts People Should Know About Mongolia</strong></p> <p><em>Grace Jacobsen is a successful blogger mostly write about facts, things that she experienced in her life.<br /> Recently she posted ab article on her blog about “10 facts people should know about Mongolia” based on her 4 years of live in Mongolia.<br /> This is a very interesting article & offers a great read. Here is the article.</em></p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">When I was nine years old, my family moved to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. We lived there four years before moving back to the United States. I know that doesn’t sound like a very long time, but it was my home. And I loved it. Since I moved away, I have often had to explain the mysterious Mongolia. It seems that although the famous Mongols once possessed a great portion of the known-world, they have since crept back into the shadows.</span></p> <p>In light of that, I thought I would share with you 10 Facts People Should Know About Mongolia.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>1. IT’S IN ASIA (NOT AFRICA)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolia gobi desert " src="/uploads/5c9c94c2-ddfc-4536-ab57-4168a2f1e629-mongolia gobi desert.jpg" /></p> <p>Sometimes, people ask me where home is. I look at them for a moment and then say slowly, “I’m not really sure. I lived in Mongolia for four years though.” That usually changes the subject (thank goodness) to, “Oh! Mongolia! That’s interesting. It’s hot there right?”</p> <p><span style="line-height: 1.6em;">I hesitate. Could Mongolia be described as hot? Well, I used to think the summers were hot. They could get up in the 90s. But, no, of course not. Mongolia would never be described as hot. It has basically nine months of winter.</span></p> <p>“Are you thinking of Angola?”</p> <p>“Oh! That’s right, I am. Where’s Mongolia again?”</p> <p>“Sandwiched between Russia and China,” I respond.</p> <p>“Ha! That’s funny. I forgot there was even a country there.”</p> <p>You’re not alone, my friend. You’re not alone.</p> <p><strong>More about Mongolian destinations</strong></p> <p>-<span style="color:#800000;"> </span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/travel-destination" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Mongolia Top Tour Destinations</span></a></p> <p><span style="color:#800000;">- </span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/mongolian-top-3-tour-destinations-for-nature-lovers" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Mongolia for Nature Lovers</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2. THEY SPEAK MONGOLIAN (NOT CHINESE)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolian horseman " src="/uploads/mongolian horseman photos.jpg" /></p> <p>“You lived in Mongolia! How interesting! Do you speak Chinese then?”</p> <p>…No. No, I don’t speak Chinese because they don’t speak Chinese in Mongolia. They speak Mongolian.</p> <p>A common misconception about Mongolia is that they are some sort of territory or province of China. As much as China might like that, this is not the case. I know this is confusing with the province in China actually called “Inner Mongolia.” Let me explain. Inner Mongolia is outside of Mongolia – in China. Outer Mongolia is actual Mongolia. Don’t ask me why this happened, I have no idea.</p> <p>Due to the fact that Mongolia is not a part of China, it speaks a language not even remotely like Chinese. Strangely enough, it is more similar to Arabic than any thing else. It is not tonal, it doesn’t use characters, and, to be honest, it doesn’t sound very pretty. But I love it because it’s theirs.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>About Mongolian Culture</strong></p> <p><strong>-<span style="color:#800000;"> </span></strong><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolian-art-and-culture" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Mongolian Language</span></a><span style="color:#800000;"> </span></p> <p><span style="color:#800000;">- </span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolian-people-and-nomads" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Mongolian people</span></a><span style="color:#800000;"> </span></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>3. THEY EAT MUTTON (NOT “BD’S MONGOLIAN GRILL”)</strong></p> <p>“You are so lucky you got to live in Mongolia! I LOVE Mongolian food!”</p> <p>Few things in life make me want to cuss. However, hearing these words makes this girl want to scream some foul language. I did not eat five hundred mutton dumplings or drink a thousand bowls of milk tea to be told I was lucky to eat it. I ate it to be polite.</p> <p>I am sure there are some people in the world who really appreciate a hearty Mongol meal. If you like mutton and fermented mare’s milk, you really are in for a treat. Wait, are you surprised that this doesn’t sound like BD’s Mongolian Grill? That’s because that restaurant is one big fat lie.</p> <p>BD’s serves seafood, NY strip steak, and every kind of beautiful fresh vegetable you can imagine. It has workers, with swords, flinging your food around on a grill while they sing a happy “Mongol” song. Just…what the heck.</p> <p>Mongolia is a landlocked country – it’s a rare day when they get seafood. NY strip steak? Are you kidding me? I’d saw off my right leg for one of those in BEIJING alone. Mongolia is a land of permafrost – getting a lot of different kind of veggies is a miracle.</p> <p>I just can’t tell you how much BD’s goes against every memory of my Mongolian childhood. I do understand that it is a delicious restaurant, but I’m not really sure why they picked Mongolia. Maybe the idea that no one would ever know they were crazy?</p> <p>On a positive note, I do hope it’s helping Mongolian tourism. What a bummer for the tourists though, when they realize there’s no delicious seafood on the menu.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>4. ROADS ARE A PRIVILEGE (NOT A RIGHT)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolia travel roads " src="/uploads/5c9c9525-ac4c-4438-8e5f-4b3fa2f1e629-mongolia travel roads.jpg" /></p> <p>I have noticed that complaining about poor road conditions is just something humans like to do. When I first visited Leif’s home in downeast Maine, I learned that America still has a final frontier in regards to roads. They twist, and they dip, and they bump. I feel nauseated every time we fly down the street to his old home.</p> <p>However, nothing compares to the “roads” of Mongolia. Almost as soon as you leave the capital, Ulaanbaatar, you find the end of the pavement. You cross over into the nomadic steppe that is the Mongolian countryside. The roads become dirt paths that have so many potholes and rocks you’re often better off just driving on the grass.</p> <p>My dad would often weave our jeep in and out of power lines, saying, “We know power leads to something!” Of course, that meant getting stuck in a bog for six hours until a Russian truck could tow us out. The time my dad stayed faithful to the dirt “road,” the jeep rolled three times and he almost died out in the Mongolian steppe.</p> <p>I would just like to take this moment to thank the American government for their beautiful highways. Thanks, America.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>5. IT’S PRONOUNCED OO-LAN-BAH-TER (NOT OO-LAN-BAY-TAR)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolia sukhbaatar square " src="/uploads/5c9c954d-4604-40c4-bfd6-494ea2f1e629-ulaanbaatar sukhbaatar square.jpg" /></p> <p>Ulaanbaatar is a fascinating city that I hope everyone has the privilege of visiting. It is nestled in a valley, surrounded by rolling hills with ancient Mongolian script painted upon them. A developing city, it is under almost constant construction as it seeks to better itself for the world stage. And, currently, Mongolia is actually considered one of the world’s fastest growing economies.</p> <p>Surrounding modern Ulaanbaatar is the ger district. The ger district is where more than half of Mongolians live. It often, if not entirely, lacks access to basic amenities like water, sewage systems, and central heating. Gers (yurts) are the felt tents you may have seen in pictures when talking about northern Asia. The ger district is mostly made up of these gers, wooden fences, and poorly constructed houses.</p> <p>Now that you know a little more about Ulaanbaatar, just remember to pronounce it correctly. Or, you could always just call it “UB” for short.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>About Ulaanbaatar</strong></p> <p><span style="color:#800000;"><strong>- </strong></span><a href="http://www.toursmongolia.com/mongolia_travel_news/popular-weekend-trips-around-ulaanbaatar" target="_blank"><span style="color:#800000;">Things to do in Ulaanbaatar</span></a></p> <p> </p> <p><strong>6. THERE ARE PEOPLE THERE (NOT JUST ANIMALS)</strong></p> <p>In university, I took an international relations class that required each student to religiously read the BBC News every week. Each week, I waited and waited for there to be an article about Mongolia. I thought about how wonderful it would be to finally be able to share my favorite country with my class. …No article ever came.</p> <p>I can understand why people aren’t sure anyone lives in the country. I mean, we never hear about them in the media. My dad, being the wise father he is, did a lot of research on Mongolia before we moved there. One of the few things he uncovered during his research was that Mongolia has more horses than people. So…it’s an empty land running free with horses?</p> <p>Well, yes and no. There are, indeed, a lot of horses. And sheep. And goats. And yaks. And reindeer. And hawks. And vultures. However, I am here to tell you today, there are also 3.2 million people in Mongolia. 3 million people with a unique culture and fascinating traditions. Just because you never hear about them, doesn’t mean they don’t exist.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>7. CHINNGGIS KHAAN IS THEIR HERO (NOT A VILLAIN)</strong></p> <p><img alt="movies about mongolia " src="/uploads/movies about mongolia.jpg" /></p> <p>When we were feeling particularly optimistic about life, my family and I traveled around the countryside of Mongolia. Usually we decided to venture out for a camping trip or some other kind of vacation. Every time we got in the car, my brother, Jonan, and I would sit by our windows and stare intently out at the steppe. Our parents had told us that Chinnggis Khaan was buried out there somewhere and, gosh darn it, we were gonna be the ones to find him.</p> <p>Chinnggis Khan (Genghis Khan), as you may remember from history class, was the founder and Great Khan of the Mongol empire. He was able to unite the nomadic tribes and conquer most of Eurasia. He was a fearless leader, willing to do whatever necessary to further his people’s iron grasp of the world. Their conquest was brutal.</p> <p>Despite the brutality Chinnggis Khaan used, he is never a villain in the eyes of the Mongols. He is their founding father. Their hero. Statues of him are found all over Mongolia and, honestly, can you blame them? Chinnggis Khaan, although horrendously vicious, got the job done. A tip of the hat to the brilliant warrior.</p> <p>As rumors have it, Chinnggis Khaan had a very serious burial plan in the event of his death. He was to be buried at an undisclosed location and anyone who was involved in the burial process was later to be killed.</p> <p>As you might imagine, Jonan and I never found his grave. Bummer.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>8. IT IS FRIGID (NOT JUST COLD)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolia riding tours " src="/uploads/mongolia riding tours.jpg" /></p> <p>Our first winter in Mongolia, our radiators in our apartment froze. It was -40 Celsius and our heaters froze. We could put hot soup on the counter and it would freeze in five minutes or less. I have decided that I didn’t know cold until I didn’t know what warmth felt like any more. You know it’s cold when your snot freezes to your nose hairs. You know it’s cold when your eyelashes get so many ice crystals you can’t see anymore. And you know it’s cold when you’re wearing seven layers and you’re still cold.</p> <p>Strangely enough, thanks to the polar vortex this year, a lot of you may actually know how this feels. It is freaking miserable. Not just miserable. Freaking miserable.</p> <p>However, when it gets warm enough to snow again, suddenly you’re running around in shorts and a t-shirt.</p> <p>Mongolia and the cold give you tough skin.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>9. IT IS AN UNDISCOVERED BEAUTY (NOT A DESOLATE WASTELAND)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolia photography tours " src="/uploads/mongolia photography destinations.jpg" /></p> <p>Yes, Mongolia doesn’t have a lot of people. And, yes, Mongolia isn’t well known.</p> <p>Yet, Mongolia still has so much to offer. My memories of Mongolia are absolutely beautiful. There is a sea of rolling steppe where you can watch the shadows of clouds roll over the land for miles. In the north, there is beautiful Lake Khovsgol, where mountains, forests, and plains collide. In the west, towering, snow-capped mountains. And, in the south, there is the Gobi Desert with towering sand dunes and springing tumbleweeds.</p> <p>Part of me loves that Mongolia is so little known. Part of me hopes it’ll stay that way forever because it is charming in its endless emptiness of beauty.</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>10. IT IS ALWAYS AN ADVENTURE (NOT EVER BORING)</strong></p> <p><img alt="mongolia adventure tours " src="/uploads/mongolia adventure tours.jpg" /></p> <p>All of my best stories have come from Mongolia.</p> <p>My family and I were trapped in a blizzard in the Gobi Desert. Nine stories of sewage backed up into my family’s toilet and tub. I stepped on a mouse that died in my boot. I could tell you story after story, but all of it to say, Mongolia is the best kind of adventure.</p> <p>It’s the kind of adventure where you don’t know how it’s going to turn out. You never know what the next day will bring. You never know how it’s going to change you. I am incredibly grateful my parents moved me to the unknown nation of Mongolia. It taught me the life-long lesson:</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>There should always be adventure.</strong></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> ', 'excerpt' => null, 'status' => '1', 'mime_type' => null, 'comment_status' => '1', 'comment_count' => '0', 'promote' => '0', 'path' => '/nodes/nodes/view/type:mongolia_travel_news/slug:10-facts-people-should-know-about-Mongolia', 'terms' => '{"13":"photography","99":"travel-tips","100":"tourism-news"}', 'terms2' => null, 'terms3' => null, 'sticky' => '0', 'lft' => '679', 'rght' => '680', 'visibility_roles' => '', 'type' => 'mongolia_travel_news', 'updated' => '2019-09-10 15:47:45', 'created' => '2014-08-26 00:00:00', 'images' => null, 'file1' => 'facts-about-mongolia.jpg', 'alt_for_file1' => 'facts-about-mongolia', 'file2' => null, 'alt_for_file2' => null, 'file3' => null, 'alt_for_file3' => null, 'file4' => null, 'alt_for_file4' => null, 'file5' => null, 'start_at' => null, 'end_at' => null, 'video_url' => '', 'title_for_layout' => '', 'meta_keywords' => '10 facts people should know about Mongolia, Mongolian people, Mongolia travel and tours, blog about Mongolia, ', 'meta_description' => '10 facts people should know about Mongolia', 'settings_value' => null, 'map' => null, 'map_index' => null, 'is_best' => '0', 'best_promote' => '0', 'sale_percent' => null, 'days' => null, 'price' => null, 'highlights' => null, 'itinerary' => null, 'fixed_dates' => null, 'spots' => null, 'description' => null, 'tour_price' => null, 'include' => null, 'exclude' => null, 'month' => null, 'nature_level' => '1', 'culture_level' => '1', 'rencontre_level' => '1', 'physical_level' => null, 'day_acc' => null, 'day_activity' => null, 'activity_hours' => null, 'related_tours' => '{"1166":" Adventures in Altai Tavan Bogd Mountains tour","1182":" Discovering Homeland of Chinggis Khaan tour ","1185":" Joyful Adventure in Khangai Region tour"}', 'hits' => '0', 'related_blogs' => '{"842":"10 Reasons You Need to Take an ADVENTURE ","873":"Why Mongolia is an Adventurous Destination?","846":"Why Mongolia must be on your 2020 travel bucket list? "}', 'url' => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'User' => array( 'password' => '*****', 'id' => '1', 'role_id' => '1', 'username' => 'admin', 'name' => 'admin', 'email' => '', 'website' => null, 'activation_key' => 'ba1441679f92cbdcc9aed56dff2989ca', 'image' => null, 'bio' => null, 'timezone' => '0', 'status' => '1', 'updated' => '2026-01-05 20:36:35', 'created' => '2013-04-11 10:55:33' ), 'Comment' => array(), 'Meta' => array(), 'Taxonomy' => array( (int) 0 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 1 => array( [maximum depth reached] ), (int) 2 => array( [maximum depth reached] ) ), 'CustomFields' => array() ), (int) 7 => array( 'Node' => array( 'id' => '776', 'parent_id' => null, 'user_id' => '1', 'cat_id' => null, 'title' => 'Mongolian Pride-Horse Race now registered in Guinness World Records', 'slug' => 'mongolian-pride-horse-race-now-registered-in-guinness-world-records', 'body' => '<p>On the initiative of the Federation of Mongolian Horse Racing Sport and Trainers (FMHRST), the “Parade of 10,000 Horses” took place on Friday, while “Mongol Horse 3,000″ horse race was held on Saturday at Khui Doloon Khudag for being recognized in the Guinness World Records and promoting the Mongolian horse, a breed with a rich history of centuries, to countries worldwide.<br /> </p> <p>Yet, instead of 10,000, over 11,000 horses from all 21 provinces marched in a mounted parade, while 4,249 horses raced instead of 3,000. Mongolia successfully registered its horse parade and horse race with the Guinness World Records and was granted a certificate for the accomplishment. Thousands of visitors of both national and foreign origin were gathered to witness the festivities. Though 26 jockeys fell off their horses during the race, none received major injuries according to an official of the National Authority for Children who said, “Hearing of the race of thousands of horses, the public was concerned about the safety of child jockeys during the race, but no jockey was injured as the race was very orderly and organized under tight responsibilities. We want to request the FMHRST to organize every future race in this safe manner.” To validate the parade and race, and register them with Guinness World Records, Guinness Adjudicator Lucia Sinigagliesi came to Ulaanbaatar from London. She said on Saturday, “I watched the biggest horse parade in the world yesterday of 11,000 horses. Today, I had the great opportunity to witness a horse race enrolling over 4,000 horses, which is the highest number on record. I see that little Mongolian jockeys are undoubtedly masters at riding race horses. Mongolians successfully registered their horse parade and race in the Guinness World Records.” When she granted the Certificate of Guinness World Records to the head of FMHRST, M.Enkhbold, spectators were cheering. M.Enkhbold said, “This year is the 750th anniversary of the ‘Ministry of Horses’ which was founded during the Khublai Khan period. Our federation initiated the parade and race to honor the anniversary and we are so glad that we could register them in the Guinness World Record. Also, we were delighted that the number of horses surmounted the originally planned number of 3,000 and 11,000. Yes we could register them. 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=> array() ) ) $fooImg = 'footer.jpg' $contactMain = array( 'Contact' => array( 'id' => '1', 'title' => 'Contact', 'alias' => 'contact', 'body' => '<p>From 9 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday</p> ', 'name' => '', 'position' => '', 'address' => 'AYAN TRAVEL Co.,Ltd <br/> Room 14, Building 69 Sukhbaatar District - 14250, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia ', 'address2' => '<iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d5348.048907679639!2d106.90447476078715!3d47.916564293424365!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0xdfe10ed4be033adb!2sAYAN+TRAVEL!5e0!3m2!1smn!2smn!4v1553580964510" width="100%" height="100%" frameborder="0" style="border:0" allowfullscreen></iframe>', 'state' => '', 'mobile' => '976-99175908', 'postcode' => '', 'phone' => '976-70109696', 'fax' => '976-86643937', 'email' => 'info@toursmongolia.com', 'message_status' => '1', 'message_archive' => '1', 'message_count' => '243', 'message_spam_protection' => '0', 'message_captcha' => '1', 'message_notify' => '1', 'status' => 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Stories, news, tips, photos, videos and inspiration from our customers, travel guides, the team and latest travel news in Mongolia. ', 'meta_keywords' => 'Mongolia travel blog, travelvlog, vlogger, blogger mongolia, travel blogging, travel writing, travel inspiration, travel stories, travel tips, mongolia travel news, travel blog mongolia, mongolia blog news, ayan travel blog,' ) $typeAlias = 'mongolia_travel_news' $alt = 'Mongolia_travel_blog_news_ayantravel_cover'include - APP/View/Elements/page_banner.php, line 60 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 948 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 910 View::_renderElement() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 1211 View::element() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 414 include - APP/View/Home/index.php, line 6 View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 948 View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 910 View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 471 Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 948 CroogoAppController::render() - APP/Plugin/Croogo/Controller/CroogoAppController.php, line 301 Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 194 Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 162 [main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 134
Mongolia Travel Blog
Our Mongolia Travel Blog from the road! Interesting travel stories, tourism news, travel tips, photo news and inspiration from our customers, tour guides, the team and the latest travel news in Mongolia.
If you love traveling and want to inspire other travelers, we are happy to share your amazing travel stories which come from Mongolian roads!
"Coaxing Ritual for Baby Camels" has been inscribed in the UNESCO List of Heritage.
admin
Dec.02 2015
The largest population of Bactrian camel lives in Gobi Desert of Mongolia. Herders in Mongolian Gobi region who face a problem when the female ...
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Hunting With Golden Eagles In Mongolia
admin
Nov.29 2015
The Kazakh eagle hunters preserve the hundreds of year tradition of eagle hunting on horse back for foxes, marmots and even wolves. They are nomadi...
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Moments From The Golden Eagle Festival In Mongolia
admin
Nov.20 2015
Each year Kazakh hunters in Bayan-Ulgii province join the renowned Golden Eagle festival with their trained Golden Eagles, known as Berkut (Burged ...
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The 7 Best Experiences in Mongolia
admin
Jun.21 2015
Dear Folks,
There is some real experiences from the traveler got in Mongolia.
Mongolian Adventure Tour Operator - Ayan Travel Mong...
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Nomadic Mongolian Naadam Festival Days are Coming...!!!
admin
May.04 2015
Every summer between 10th-13th July holds Nomad's Naadam Festival across the country. This is the main traditi...
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Michelle Rodriguez in Mongolia for Golden Eagle Hunting Festival
admin
Nov.13 2014
Famous Hollywood actress and screenwriter Michelle Rodriguez has attended in Golden Eagle Hunting Festival - 2014 in Mongolia.
...
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10 Facts People Should Know About Mongolia by Grace Pilet Jacobsen
admin
Aug.26 2014
10 Facts People Should Know About Mongolia
Grace Jacobsen is a successful blogger mostly write about facts, things that she experienced in her l...
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Mongolian Pride-Horse Race now registered in Guinness World Records
admin
Jul.01 2014
On the initiative of the Federation of Mongolian Horse Racing Sport and Trainers (FMHRST), the “Parade of 10,000 Horses” took place on ...
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FIRST EVER “Mongolian Photographers’ PHOTO TOUR” has completed successfully!
admin
Jun.26 2014
The professional group of 15 photographers have trailed along the 9 day – tour route to World heritage sites of Terracotta Army ground (Xian)...
Read More
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