Known as “The Three Games of Men,” Naadam is Mongolia’s celebration of traditional strength and skill competitions that predate the times of Genghis Khan. Naadam was originally held between clans as a showcase for weddings. It wasn’t until the 13th century that Khan made it an official holiday, presiding over the inaugural event in addition to scouting for recruits to his army.
© Pniesen | Dreamstime
Today, Naadam serves two purposes as a celebration of Mongolian culture and as a commemoration to the country’s independence. Under communist rule, Mongolian culture was heavily suppressed by ties to the USSR, but the festival was reinstated after a democratic revolution in 1990 and eventually declared a UNESCO Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Communities hold festivities all over the country, though the biggest is in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar where the nine horse tails (tribes) of Mongolia take part in a ceremonial parade from Sukhbaatar Square to the National Sports Stadium.
© Loca4motion | Dreamstime
Today, women are allowed to compete in horse racing and archery, though wrestling is still reserved for men only. This year’s competition is scheduled for July 9–16, with tour companies offering packages for Ulaanbaatar and excursions into the Gobi Desert. If you’re interested in witnessing Naadam or seeing the country of Genghis Khan, visit discovermongolia.mn.
Read This Next
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedOffers
Jun 13, 2024WorldHotels Loyalty Program Members Earn More with New Promotion
WorldHotels’ loyalty program, WorldHotels Rewards, now gives members the chance to earn up to 20,000 points when staying at one of the brand’s hotels and resorts.
Sponsored Content
Welcome to Wyndham Monterrey Ambassador Centro
Wyndham Monterrey Ambassador Centro, operated by Aimbridge LATAM, opened its doors, welcoming guests to one of the most iconic and traditional properties in Monterrey, Nuevo León. Boasting 229 rooms and suites, the hotel, part of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, is ready for discerning travelers. Wyndham Hotels & Resorts is the largest hotel franchise company in the world with approximately 9,100 hotels in more than 95 countries.
Destinations / North America
Jun 12, 2024Add These Southwest Florida Beach Towns to Your Summer Travel List
Plan your summer Florida getaway with a stay at one of these popular beach towns.
Cruises
Jun 12, 2024Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday on a Historic Cruise
In 2026, the United States of America will celebrate its 250th birthday — and if you need to brush up on your U.S. history before the big event arrives, Princess Cruises has you covered. Throughout 2025, Princess Cruises offers 10 Historic America themed cruises, with itineraries setting sail from New York City and stopping at some of the most iconic spots on the East Coast.
Sponsored Content
United Continues Its Global Expansion
United Airlines keeps soaring to new heights, recently announcing another expansion of its leading global route network. The airline added new non-stop flights between Newark (EWR) and Marrakesh (RAK), Morocco; Tokyo (NRT) and Cebu (CEB), Philippines; and Houston (IAH) and Medellin (MDE), Colombia. That’s not all: United also plans to increase flights to popular worldwide destinations including Hong Kong (HKG); Seoul (INC), South Korea; and Porto (OPO), Portugal. Following the recent agreement to increase flights between the U.S. and Chinese governments, the airline now adds four weekly flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Shanghai (PVG).
Destinations / Africa
Jun 12, 2024Take an Unforgettable Trip to Uganda with New Tour
Ever dreamt of spotting some of Africa’s most endangered primates? What if you could see them up close and support their future survival? Nkuringo Safaris gives travelers the chance to see rare mountain gorillas and golden monkeys on a new tour.
ShareThis