Khatgal
Naadam
A village Naadam on the southern shore — wrestling, archery, and child jockeys.
What this event is.
Naadam is Mongolia's national festival of the three manly games — wrestling, archery, and horse racing. The Khatgal edition is small, local, and warm; held on a grass field at the southern tip of Lake Khuvsgul, it draws families from across the province.
Unlike the spectacle in Ulaanbaatar, Khatgal Naadam is intimate. Children jockeys ride bareback across the steppe. Wrestlers in traditional zodog and shuudag dance the eagle dance after each bout. Archers stand in a long row at sunset. We arrange seating with local families and a respectful introduction to the host community.
Four things worth coming for.
Three manly games
Wrestling, archery, and a 25 km cross-country horse race for boys aged 7 – 12.
Opening parade
Khatgal residents in deel, monks, and the lake fishermen march to the field at dawn.
Lakeside feast
Khorkhog stone-cooked lamb served on the shore on the second evening.
Quiet mornings
Pre-event mornings on the lake — ideal for a paddle, a ride, or simply to read.
Frames from past editions.
Schedule.
- Day 01Opening paradeDawn parade through Khatgal, opening ceremony at the field, first wrestling round.
- Day 02Horse race dayCross-country horse race at noon, archery finals at sunset, communal khorkhog feast.
- Day 03Closing & free dayWrestling finals, closing eagle dance, free afternoon on the lake.
Want to attend? We’ll handle the route.
Limited capacity. Transport, accommodation, and a small-group offroad option are available — get in touch and we’ll send a tailored itinerary.