Start your journey with a vibrant celebration of Mongolia’s cultural heritage at the Deeltei Festival, a dazzling display of traditional Mongolian costumes. This National Costume Festival highlights the unique clothing styles from every region of the country. Sukhbaatar Square becomes a sea of colors as the locals parade in their most elaborate and beautifully embroidered traditional outfits. Experience mesmerizing dances, ceremonial archery, and martial arts demonstrations that vividly bring Mongolia’s rich traditions to life.

In the afternoon, delve deeper into Ulaanbaatar’s historical and cultural treasures. Visit the tranquil Gandan Monastery, the largest active Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, where monks chant ancient prayers. Discover the Bogd Khan Palace Museum, which served as the winter residence of Mongolia’s last king, and admire its stunning architecture and impressive collections of sacred relics. This immersive experience will leave you with a profound connection to the culture and history of Mongolia’s capital.

Highlights of the Day:

• Deeltei Festival at Sukhbaatar Square – Experience a colorful parade of traditional costumes, captivating dances, and impressive archery displays.
• Gandan Monastery Visit – Explore the spiritual heart of Mongolia and witness Buddhist rituals in an active monastery.
• Bogd Khan Palace Museum – Step back in time at the former royal residence and explore its rich history and artifacts.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance: ~15 km (around Ulaanbaatar); Overnight stay in Ulaanbaatar at hotel; (-/L/D).

Step into the heart of Mongolia’s heritage with an inspiring preview of the Naadam Festival, a celebration that embodies the nation’s nomadic spirit. Your day begins at the horse-racing arena, where young foals and their daring riders race across the vast steppe in an exhilarating display of speed and skill—a beautiful glimpse of Mongolia’s deep connection to horses.

Next, experience the intensity and precision of the archery competition, where expert "Shagai" shooters demonstrate their mastery of this ancient sport, deeply rooted in nomadic traditions. As the morning excitement unfolds, you will be captivated by a national folklore performance featuring mesmerizing throat singing, traditional dances, and soul-stirring melodies that echo the vast landscapes of Mongolia.

This unforgettable day will leave you captivated by the rich traditions and proud spirit of the Mongolian people.

Highlights of the Day:

• Foal Race at Naadam Arena – Experience the thrill of young horses galloping across the steppe in a lively race.
• Archery and Shagai Shooter Competition – Watch ancient skills come to life as archers demonstrate remarkable accuracy and precision.
• National Folklore Performance – Be moved by the powerful harmony of Mongolian throat singing and traditional dance in the National Folklore Performance.

Travel Details: Expected Travel Distance: ~20 km (Ulaanbaatar and Naadam Preview locations). Overnight stay in Ulaanbaatar at hotel; (B/L/D).

The adventure today begins at the opening ceremony of the Naadam Festival, an unforgettable spectacle held at the National Sports Stadium. With banners flying high and drums echoing through the air, the ceremony kicks off as the President of Mongolia officially opens the festivities. The stadium erupts into a whirlwind of color, with horse riders, dancers, and musicians filling the field in a proud celebration of Mongolia’s nomadic spirit.

Feel the energy as you watch the wrestlers lock in fierce competition and archers take aim with unerring precision. This is Mongolia at its boldest—a living tradition that pulses with strength and honor.

In the afternoon, trade the bustling stadium for the vast wilderness of Terelj National Park. The drive takes you deep into Mongolia’s countryside, where rugged cliffs and open meadows stretch endlessly. Tonight, you will stay in a traditional ger, surrounded by the untamed beauty of nature. Allow the fresh mountain air and star-studded sky to awaken your sense of adventure as you settle into your yurt for an authentic nomadic experience.

Highlights of the Day:

• Naadam Festival Opening Ceremony – Experience the vibrant energy of Mongolia’s most prestigious festival, featuring parades, captivating performances, and intense competitions.
• Wrestling and Archery – Watch two of Mongolia's ancient sports in action at the heart of Naadam.
• Journey to Terelj National Park – Escape into Mongolia’s wild landscapes and enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional ger.

Travel details: Expected Travel Distance: ~70 km; Overnight stay in traditional yurt ger (B/L/D).

The adventure continues with the second and final day of the Naadam Festival, featuring its most cherished and time-honored tradition: horse racing. We’ll travel to the wide-open valley of Khui Doloon Khutag, situated just 50 kilometers from Ulaanbaatar. Here, you’ll feel the excitement as young riders skillfully guide their horses across the endless grasslands, competing in a breathtaking test of speed, endurance, and strength. This ancient race is more than a sport—it’s a powerful symbol of Mongolia’s deep connection to its horses and nomadic heritage.

As the races unfold, indulge in the flavors of Naadam, with a highlight being khushuur, a savory deep-fried meat pastry beloved by locals. After lunch, the pace shifts as we embark on a horseback ride through the picturesque valley, exploring the vast landscapes for 2 to 3 hours, with nothing but the open sky above and rolling hills surrounding you.

In the late afternoon, we will return to Ulaanbaatar, where your Naadam adventure concludes with a drop-off at your hotel.

As the sun sets over the sprawling steppe, you will carry with you the spirit of Naadam, the thunder of galloping hooves, and the untamed beauty of Mongolia—a memory that will forever call you back to this extraordinary land.

Highlights of the Day:

• Naadam Horse Races – Experience one of Mongolia’s most thrilling and ancient traditions unfold in a beautiful valley.
• Horseback Riding in Khui Doloon Khutag – Explore the stunning valley on horseback for an unforgettable experience.

Travel details: Expected Travel Distance: ~100 km; Overnight stay in Ulaanbaatar at hotel (-/L/D).