Discover the Wonders of Mongolia: A Paradise for Adventurers and Culture EnthusiastsMongolia, the land of the eternal blue sky, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From its vast steppes and majestic mountains to the enduring traditions of its nomadic people, Mongolia is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure and an authentic cultural experience. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that make Mongolia a must-visit destination.<figure class="image"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2FMongolia%20Ger.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=f3e1ee97-0bc7-45c8-a83b-2b778df071ed"></figure><h3 style="text-align:justify;">Explore Mongolia’s Natural Landscapes</h3><h3 style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/souther-mongolia-gobi-desert?title=Souther+Mongolia+-+Gobi+Desert">The Gobi Desert</a></h3><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2FGobi%20desert.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=7caa5ce4-d856-49ac-a89b-8d44877fd6bd"></figure>The Gobi Desert, one of the largest and most diverse deserts in the world, covers much of southern Mongolia. Unlike the typical image of endless sand dunes, the Gobi features a stunning variety of landscapes, including rocky cliffs, grassy plains, and dramatic canyons. Here are some highlights to explore:<a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/souther-mongolia-gobi-desert/the-khongor-sand-dunes">Khongoryn Els (Singing Dunes): </a>These massive dunes stretch for over 180 kilometers and reach heights of up to 300 meters. When the wind blows, the sand produces a deep, humming sound, earning the name "Singing Dunes." Visitors can climb the dunes for panoramic views and enjoy camel rides through the surrounding area.<a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/souther-mongolia-gobi-desert/bayanzag-cliff">Flaming Cliffs (Bayanzag):</a> Known for their striking red and orange hues, the Flaming Cliffs are a hotspot for paleontologists. It was here that the first dinosaur eggs were discovered in the 1920s. Today, visitors can walk among the cliffs, marvel at the scenery, and imagine the prehistoric life that once roamed the region.<a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/souther-mongolia-gobi-desert/yol-valley">Yolyn Am (Eagle Valley): </a>Located in the Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, Yolyn Am is a deep gorge famous for its ice field, which often persists even in the summer. The valley is home to diverse wildlife, including ibex, argali sheep, and bearded vultures. A hike through the gorge offers a refreshing break from the desert heat.<a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/souther-mongolia-gobi-desert/tsagaan-suvarga">Tsagaan Suvarga (White Stupa):</a> This striking natural formation resembles an ancient city carved into the landscape. The colorful layers of rock create a mesmerizing effect, especially during sunrise and sunset.The Gobi Desert is also home to traditional nomadic communities, where visitors can experience authentic Mongolian hospitality. Staying in a ger (yurt) and learning about the desert’s unique ecosystem and way of life adds depth to the adventure.<h3 style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/northern-mongolia-khuvsgul-lake/khuvsgul-lake">Lake Khovsgol</a></h3><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fkhuvsgul%20lake.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=484fe174-2885-4c0a-8956-4417b3b54d34"></figure>Lake Khovsgol, often called the "Blue Pearl of Mongolia," is one of the country’s most treasured natural wonders. Located in northern Mongolia near the Russian border, it is the largest freshwater lake by volume and the second-largest by area in Mongolia. Here’s why it’s a must-visit destination:Pristine Waters: Lake Khovsgol is one of the world’s oldest and clearest lakes, with water so pure that it’s safe to drink directly from the lake. Stretching over 136 kilometers in length and surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains, it offers breathtaking views in every direction.Biodiversity: The lake is home to a wide variety of fish species, including the endemic grayling and lenok. Its surrounding area supports diverse wildlife such as ibex, moose, reindeer, and over 200 species of birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers.Activities: Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including kayaking, fishing, and horseback riding along the lake’s serene shores. Hiking trails in the area lead to stunning viewpoints and hidden natural gems. In winter, the frozen lake hosts the annual Khovsgol Ice Festival, where locals and tourists participate in ice skating, sledding, and even car races on the ice.Cultural Significance: The lake is considered sacred by local Mongolian communities and is often associated with ancient shamanistic traditions. Visitors can learn about the spiritual practices and folklore surrounding the lake from the local Tsaatan people, who are reindeer herders living in the region.Ger Camps and Eco-Tourism: Along the shores of Lake Khovsgol, there are several eco-friendly ger camps where visitors can stay. These camps provide a comfortable and immersive experience while minimizing the environmental impact on the pristine surroundings.Lake Khovsgol’s unspoiled beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect destination for those looking to connect with nature and experience Mongolia’s wilderness.<h3 style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/western-mongolia-altai-mountains/altai-tavan-bogd-national-park">The Altai Mountains</a></h3><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2FAltai%20mountains.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=4363ce56-7550-4885-a6e0-c1fef9b1c601"></figure>The Altai Mountains, located in western Mongolia, are among the country’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. This remote and rugged range spans the borders of Mongolia, Russia, China, and Kazakhstan, making it a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The mountains are home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and ancient cultural practices.Khüiten Peak: At 4,374 meters, Khüiten Peak is the highest point in Mongolia and a popular destination for climbers and adventurers. The ascent offers stunning views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and vast valleys. The surrounding Tavan Bogd National Park provides a haven for nature lovers.<a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/festivals/the-golden-eagle-festival">Golden Eagle Festival: </a>The Altai region is famous for its traditional eagle hunters, who train golden eagles to hunt prey. The annual Golden Eagle Festival celebrates this ancient practice with competitions, demonstrations, and cultural performances. Visitors can meet the eagle hunters and learn about their way of life.Wildlife and Biodiversity: The Altai Mountains are home to some of the world’s rarest animals, including the snow leopard, Altai argali sheep, and ibex. Birdwatchers will be delighted by sightings of golden eagles, bearded vultures, and other avian species.Petroglyphs and Archaeological Sites: The region boasts thousands of petroglyphs dating back to the Bronze Age, depicting scenes of hunting, herding, and everyday life. These rock carvings, found in sites like Tsagaan Salaa and Baga Oigor, provide a glimpse into the lives of ancient nomads.Cultural Diversity: The Altai Mountains are home to various ethnic groups, including Kazakhs, Tuvans, and Uriankhai people, each with their own unique traditions, music, and cuisine. Visitors can experience their hospitality by staying in gers and participating in local festivals.Adventure Opportunities: From trekking and horseback riding to glacier hikes and river rafting, the Altai Mountains offer endless opportunities for adventure. The untouched beauty of the region makes it a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="text-align:justify;">Immerse Yourself in Nomadic Culture</h3>Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Visitors can stay in a traditional yurt (ger), try milking yaks, and learn how nomads navigate the challenges of life on the steppe. The warmth and hospitality of the Mongolian people make this an unforgettable experience.<figure class="image"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2FMongolia%20culture(1).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=2b5f9c08-f077-428d-8bdb-7b11e6bcf641"></figure><h3 style="text-align:justify;">Immerse Yourself in Nomadic Culture</h3>Mongolia’s nomadic lifestyle has remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering visitors a unique glimpse into an ancient way of life. Staying in a traditional ger (yurt) is not only a comfortable experience but also an opportunity to connect with local families. Guests can learn to milk yaks, herd sheep, and even try their hand at cooking traditional meals. The nomads’ deep connection to nature and their resourceful way of life leave a lasting impression on all who visit.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Dive Into Mongolia’s Rich History</h3><h4 style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/central-mongolia-orkhon-valley/kharkhorin-or-karakorum-city">Genghis Khan and Karakorum</a></h4><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2FErdenzuu%20monastery(1).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=56d379dd-fe7d-44a9-8a99-9ab071e138ea"></figure>As the birthplace of Genghis Khan, Mongolia is steeped in history. Karakorum, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire, offers a fascinating window into the era of Genghis Khan and his successors. Visitors can explore the Erdene Zuu Monastery, Mongolia’s first Buddhist monastery, built on the ruins of the ancient capital. The monastery’s intricate architecture and serene atmosphere make it a highlight for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike.<h4 style="text-align:justify;"><a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/destinations/central-mongolia-orkhon-valley/the-orkhon-waterfall">Orkhon Valley</a></h4>A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Orkhon Valley is considered the cradle of Mongolian civilization. Spanning over 120 kilometers, it is dotted with archaeological sites, including the ruins of Khar Balgas and Tuvkhun Monastery. The valley’s lush landscapes, combined with its historical significance, make it a perfect destination for those looking to explore Mongolia’s heritage.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Celebrate Cultural Festivals</h3>The <a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/festivals/the-naadam-festival">Naadam Festival</a> is Mongolia’s most famous cultural event, held every July. This national celebration features the "three manly games" of wrestling, archery, and horse racing, which have been practiced for centuries. Visitors can also enjoy traditional music and dance performances, sample local delicacies, and participate in cultural workshops. Other notable festivals include the Golden Eagle Festival in the Altai region and the Tsagaan Sar (Lunar New Year), which marks the beginning of spring.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Savor Traditional Mongolian Cuisine</h3>No trip to Mongolia is complete without sampling its unique cuisine. Try dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings), khuushuur (fried meat pies), and tsuivan (stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables). Adventurous eaters can savor boodog, a traditional goat dish cooked using hot stones, or khorkhog, a meat stew prepared in a similar manner. Don’t miss airag, fermented mare’s milk, a tangy drink that’s both refreshing and deeply rooted in Mongolian culture.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Practical Tips for Visiting Mongolia</h3><figure class="image"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fvisit%20mongolia(1).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=81076112-a29c-4e55-92a1-f0eb447fcf48"></figure><a href="https://www.travel-to-mongolia.com/travel-guide/best-time-to-visit-mongolia">Best Time to Visit: </a>The summer months (June to September) offer pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and numerous festivals. Winter, though harsh, provides unique experiences like the Ice Festival and eagle hunting.Visa Requirements: Check if your nationality requires a visa to enter Mongolia. Many countries have simplified visa processes or offer visa-free travel.Travel Packages: Numerous tour operators provide tailored packages, including guided treks, cultural experiences, and wildlife safaris. Be sure to choose a reputable provider to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.Local Transportation: While public transport is limited, hiring a guide with a 4x4 vehicle is the best way to explore Mongolia’s rugged terrain.<h3 style="text-align:justify;">Why Visit Mongolia?</h3>Mongolia’s untouched landscapes, rich traditions, and warm hospitality make it a truly unique destination. Whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or a peaceful retreat, Mongolia promises memories that will last a lifetime.Pack your bags and get ready to explore the wonders of Mongolia — a land like no other!&nbsp;&nbsp;

Mongolia, the land of the eternal blue sky, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From its vast steppes and majestic mountains to the enduring traditions of its nomadic people, Mongolia is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure and an authentic cultural experience. Here are some of the top attractions and activities that make Mongolia a must-visit destination.

Discover the Wonders of Mongolia

NOMADS MIGRATION COMBINED WITH EAGLE HUNTING PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR<hr>Nomads Migration combined with Eagle Hunting photography tour in the soil of Majestic Altai Mountains in Western part of Mongolia.Our joining the migration tour was held last Autumn in 2019. The nomads migration is occurred between the nomadic peoples summer camping spot and how they move backwards to their autumn spots along with the seasonal change.The whole migration process lasts about a week of time.&nbsp; It consists of nomads, collecting and loading all the necessary needs on their domesticated camels(the trusted transports of our ancestors) and herding their livestock.In this joint tour, you will not only be introduced to the unique lifestyle and culture of nomads that has been followed by its today’s descendants in its exact form and methods as back in days but also might participate in the process.<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fnomads_migration_bn.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=d4738e05-ea65-4952-85e1-b1cf4214760d"></figure>

Our joining the migration tour was held last Autumn in 2019. The nomads migration is occurred between the nomadic peoples summer camping spot and how they move backwards to their autumn spots along with the seasonal change.

NOMADS MIGRATION COMBINED WITH EAGLE HUNTING PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR

What to do in Mongolia?<hr>Mongolia offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Here are some popular things to do in Mongolia:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Explore the Gobi Desert: Embark on an adventure to the vast and captivating Gobi Desert, known for its stunning landscapes, sand dunes, and unique wildlife. Visit iconic sites like the Khongoryn Els sand dunes and the Flaming Cliffs.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Experience Nomadic Culture: Stay in a traditional ger camp and immerse yourself in the nomadic way of life. Learn about their customs, traditions, and daily activities such as horseback riding, milking livestock, and tasting traditional Mongolian food.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Discover National Parks and Natural Beauty: Mongolia is home to several national parks, such as Terelj National Park, Khustain Nuruu National Park, and Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Explore the pristine landscapes, hike through mountains, visit waterfalls, and enjoy outdoor activities like camping and wildlife spotting.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Attend Traditional Festivals: Experience the vibrant cultural traditions of Mongolia by attending festivals like Naadam Festival, Golden Eagle Festival, and Tsagaan Sar (Mongolian Lunar New Year). Witness traditional sports, music, dance performances, and sample local cuisine.</li></ul><figure class="image"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Feagle_hunters_wtdm.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=e9912075-8a95-46b6-85c5-a0b7737c9b86"></figure><ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Horseback Riding and Trekking: Mongolia is renowned for its horse culture, and horseback riding is a popular activity. Take a guided horse trek through the picturesque landscapes and experience the freedom of riding in the vast open steppes.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Wildlife and Nature Photography: With its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife, Mongolia offers excellent opportunities for nature and wildlife photography. Capture stunning images of wild horses (Przewalski's horse), Bactrian camels, eagles, and various bird species.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Visit Ulaanbaatar: Explore the capital city of Ulaanbaatar and discover its museums, markets, and cultural landmarks. Visit the National Museum of Mongolia, Zaisan Hill Monument, and explore the vibrant city center.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Participate in Outdoor Adventures: Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, and fishing. Mongolia's beautiful landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for thrilling adventures.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Experience Mongolian Cuisine: Sample traditional Mongolian dishes like buuz (steamed dumplings), khorkhog (mutton cooked with hot stones), and airag (fermented mare's milk). Experience the unique flavors and culinary traditions of Mongolia.</li></ul>These are just a few highlights of what you can do in Mongolia. The country offers a wealth of experiences for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural heritage.

Mongolia offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors. Here are some popular things to do in Mongolia. These are just a few highlights of what you can do in Mongolia. The country offers a wealth of experiences for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking to immerse themselves in a rich cultural heritage.

What to do in Mongolia?

Golden Eagle Festival 2025, MongoliaThe Golden Eagle Festival is a popular cultural event held in Mongolia that showcases the traditional hunting practices of the Kazakh nomads using trained golden eagles. Here's some information about the Golden Eagle Festival:<hr>SCHEDULES OF EAGLE FESTIVAL IN BAYAN ULGII PROVINCEGolden Eagle Festival will be held on 4th, 5th of October, 2025 “Sary Kul” site of Bugat village of Bayan-Ulgii province.Altai Eagle Festival will be held on 6th, 7th of September, 2025 Altait village of Bayan-Ulgii province.Sagsai Eagle Festival will be held on 17th, 18th of September, 2025 Sagsai village of Bayan-Ulgii province.Tolbo Eagle Festival will be held on 20th, 21th of September, 2025 “Tolbo lake” site of Tolbo&nbsp;ITINERARY<hr><figure class="table" style="width:100%;"><table class="ck-table-resized"><colgroup><col style="width:49.87%;"><col style="width:50.13%;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td>SATURDAY, 4TH OF OCTOBER, 2025 (DAY 1)</td><td>SUNDAY, 5TH OF OCTOBER, 2025 (DAY 2)</td></tr><tr><td>Registration and credential of Eagle Hunters Opening ceremony of Annual Golden Eagle Festival Competition of best Kazakh costume, eagle and horse harness Horse race Competition of how eagles adapted to hanters “Tenge Ily” competition(Traditional coin grabbing game while ride a horse) Urainhai archery competition Competition of the best Kazakh costume of couples Folk concert in local theatre at Ulgii town</td><td>Competition of how eagles adapted to hunters “Shyrga tartu”(eagles will be qualified how fast and smoothly catch a lure that made of rabbit or fox skin) Camel race “Khyz khuar” game show(Traditional horse back riding fan game for youth, boys whipped by girls if they reached by them) Continuation game “Kukhbar” competition(Traditional horse back riding game fight over for goat skin) Award ceremony for winners of festival Closing ceremony</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fgolden_eagle_festival_mongolia_2023_parade.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=02e2db6e-1fa4-4434-9a8b-75ad842db1d3"></figure>ABOUT GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL​<hr><ol><li style="text-align:justify;">Location and Timing: The Golden Eagle Festival takes place in Bayan-Ölgii Province in western Mongolia. It is usually held in October, during the prime hunting season when the golden eagles are most active.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Cultural Significance: The festival celebrates the ancient art of eagle hunting, which has been practiced by the Kazakh nomads for centuries. The Kazakh people have a deep connection with their golden eagles and consider them hunting partners and companions. The festival provides an opportunity to preserve and showcase this unique cultural heritage to both locals and visitors.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Activities and Competitions: The Golden Eagle Festival features various activities and competitions that highlight the skills and bond between the hunters and their eagles. These include eagle hunting demonstrations, where the eagles showcase their hunting abilities by catching prey, as well as competitions such as eagle speed and agility tests, best traditional Kazakh dress, and traditional horseback riding games.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Cultural Performances: Alongside the eagle hunting competitions, the festival also includes cultural performances that showcase traditional Kazakh music, dance, and singing. Visitors have the chance to experience the vibrant Kazakh culture and enjoy the colorful performances.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Interaction and Photography: The festival provides an opportunity to interact with the eagle hunters and learn about their way of life. Visitors can get up close to the eagles, observe their training techniques, and even have a chance to hold these majestic birds. It's also a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning images of the eagles, hunters, and the beautiful Mongolian landscapes.</li></ol>

The Golden Eagle Festival is a popular cultural event held in Mongolia that showcases the traditional hunting practices of the Kazakh nomads using trained golden eagles. Here's some information about the Golden Eagle Festival. Annual Golden Eagle Festival will be held on 4th and 5th  of October, 2025 “Sary Kul” site of Bugat village of Bayan-Ulgii province.

Golden Eagle Festival 2025, Mongolia

HOW AN EAGLE FESTIVAL IS CHANGING TOURISM IN MONGOLIA<hr>MONGOLIA DRAWS ADVENTUROUS TRAVELERS WITH ITS PRISTINE NATURE AND UNCOMPROMISED CULTURE. THE COUNTRY'S INCREASINGLY POPULAR GOLDEN EAGLE FESTIVAL IS TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW TO MAINTAIN THOSE NOW THAT IT’S IN THE SPOTLIGHT. &nbsp;<figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Feagle_festival_bn.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=4f1467ba-6167-40bb-b65f-f4792c879919"></figure>I’m standing on a grassy plain, encircled by mountains, in one of the most remote places in the world.And somehow, I thought it would be more crowded.I’ve come to Mongolia for the 20th anniversary of the Golden Eagle Festival, held every October in the far western province of Bayan-Ölgii, where the country borders Russia, China, and Kazakhstan. I’m not the only one: Before the next two days are over, nearly 1,500 visitors will kick up the dust on this sprawling expanse. But right now, a little before 10 a.m., the field is serene. &nbsp;Within the hour, tour operators will unload a few dozen SUVs full of Patagonia- and North Face–bundled travelers. Local visitors will accumulate as the day goes on, arriving by car or horse or motorcycle or camel. Some will carry sparkly cell phones; some will wear jeans and light jackets, and at least one will be in a hooded sweatshirt printed with a swoop and the word Neki. Others will be in traditional Mongolian Kazakh winter dress: enormous fur coats and colorful peaked hats ringed with fur. And 124 of them—the oldest an 82-year-old man, the youngest a 10-year-old girl—will be eagle hunters. The Golden Eagle Festival has occurred every year since 1999.&nbsp;THE EAGLE HUNTRESS EFFECT<hr><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Faisholpan1.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=2a9e7b9b-bf32-48b6-be42-808a75928a28"></figure>In 2016, a documentary called The Eagle Huntress drew people’s attention to Mongolia in a way that little else had since Genghis Khan used it as his base for building the largest contiguous empire in history. The film tells the story of another Mongolian warrior of sorts: a smiling, rosy-cheeked 13-year-old girl named Aisholpan, who defied gender convention to practice—and excel at—the ancient Mongolian-Kazakh tradition of hunting with golden eagles.Like her predecessors, Aisholpan climbed a mountain to find her eaglet (mothers usually foster only one of their litter, leaving the others to fend for themselves), then took it home to shelter, hand-feed, and train. (As is the custom, in about 10 years, Aisholpan will hold a ceremony to release her eagle back into the wild to live for another two decades.) Mongolia was suddenly on the international stage, and the festival—which had been quietly rolling along for 18 years at that point—was smack in the middle of the spotlight. I met two Australian women who’d been planning a trip to China when they stumbled on the movie; they added a week so they could be here. In my own tour group of 12, more than half had come specifically for the festival. &nbsp;Golden eagles get their flashy name from their not-so-flashy collar of lighter brown feathers. They are not rare—they can also be found in Mexico, the western United States, northern Africa, and Europe—but their ubiquitousness in no way makes them ordinary. With a wingspan of about 8 feet and a weight of roughly 15 pounds, they can dive at speeds up to 200 mph and are capable of taking down a full-grown sheep. Here in western Mongolia, they share the vast, harsh, often-subzero landscape with the nomadic Kazakh hunters, and the relationship is symbiotic: The humans get a swift, sharp-eyed predator to hunt small prey for meat and fur. The eagles get a surrogate parent and steady food, care, and shelter for the first third of their lives.This link between eagle and hunter goes back centuries. But by the late 1990s, only about 40 Mongolian Kazakh families still had eagles. The tradition—under threat from modernity and a disinterested younger generation—was dying.&nbsp;&nbsp;EAGLES AMONG US<hr><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fgolden_eagle.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=ab863694-f439-45a1-ae3a-f96c0968141a"><figcaption>Golden eagles can dive at speeds up to 200 mph.</figcaption></figure>Although the festival pays tribute to a hunting tradition, no actual hunting takes place, despite what some websites say. On the first day, each participant rode a horse onto a field at the foot of a small mountain, while a partner climbed up the rocky incline with the eagle. When the partner released the bird, the hunter circled his or her horse, whooping in a personalized call intended to draw the eagle to the hunter’s arm. A panel of local government officials and VIPs graded them on how quickly and elegantly that happened, along with assigning points for the beauty of their costumes and their horsemanship. (This seemed fairly subjective, but even as a casual spectator, it was possible to pick out the nuances in skill.)On and off the field, the crowd went wild for 14-year-old Akhelik, a huntress in a bright white fur hat who caught her eagle in 11 seconds. (As I found out later, some mistook her for the star of The Eagle Huntress, who was away at school this year.) Another clear favorite was tiny 10-year-old Aimulder, whose father rode alongside to help with the weight of her eagle. Later, through a translator, she told me she had been training since she was four. Her father and her grandfather were both eagle hunters, so she wanted to be one, too.At the end of the two-day festival, the top three scorers won prize money and medals, shiny medallions on rainbow ribbons placed reverentially around their necks—and the necks of their eagles, too. Teenage Akhelik took home third place. Little Aimulder earned an honorable mention award.The festival has developed to be more than just the eagle competition. Each day, locals set out mats and tables to sell their wares in a makeshift market: handmade felt shoes, embroidered vests, and fox-fur hats with faces of the animals still intact. There was even a tent selling pizza and one with a sign that touted “Nomadic Coffee.”In another area, people built simple carnival games, and a friend and I lost a couple tugriks trying to toss rings onto pegs. Nearby, archers in colorful coats showily pointed their blunt arrows at the sky and then thudded them quietly into the ground where targets were marked. Just beyond the arrows’ reach, their fellow bowmen jeered in what was unmistakably the Kazakh version of trash talk. A small local boy next to me seemingly loved every second of this. Mouth hanging open in awe, he ping-ponged his head back and forth trying to follow the arrows.&nbsp;<figure class="image image_resized" style="width:100%;"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fgolden_eagle_festival_bn.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=9e53859d-cdbb-4f51-8501-415e6974c086"></figure>MONGOLIA RISING<hr><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Feagle_hunter_kazakh_bn.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=4009b827-a1c1-41bc-a4fb-e596eb3b3d89"></figure>More than half of all Mongolians live nomadically in round, movable tent-homes called gers. They relocate in spring to find pasture for their cattle and in winter to find protection from the piercing winds and -40 degree weather. To meet these nomads—to interact with them at the festival and to be welcomed into their homes with fried bread and butter from their own cows, as we were on my tour—is something special; this peek at the culture is a draw for visitors to the country. Whenever I asked another traveler “Why Mongolia?” I got the same answer: nomads, nature, and the eagle festival.It’s not surprising, then, that while The Eagle Huntress drew attention to the Golden Eagle Festival, tourism to Mongolia has been growing as a whole. In 2000, just 150,000 tourists visited the country, but by 2008, arrivals had jumped to 446,000, thanks to a concerted government effort to build and promote tourism. By 2018, the number was 529,000, and in 2019, it rose to an impressive 577,000—though still shy of the government’s goal of attracting 1 million by 2020, via efforts like tax breaks for high-rated hotels and eliminating tourism licenses. Currently, most travelers come from neighboring Russia and China, followed far behind by South Korea, Japan, and the United States.Mongolia is one of the least populated countries in the world, with 3 million people living in 600,000 square miles. (By comparison, France, one-third the size of Mongolia, saw 90 million tourists in 2018.) Yet despite all the space, its relatively newfound attention has meant the country is at a delicate crossroads. There is a drive to ramp up tourism, yes, but the question officials are wrestling with is how to do that responsibly—especially when the things that draw travelers to this country are the very things that can be endangered by them: pristine nature and an authentic nomadic culture largely undiluted by Western influence. These same issues are at play at the festival, albeit on a smaller scale.&nbsp;

I’ve come to Mongolia for the 20th anniversary of the Golden Eagle Festival, held every October in the far western province of Bayan-Ölgii, where the country borders Russia, China, and Kazakhstan. I’m not the only one

HOW AN EAGLE FESTIVAL IS CHANGING TOURISM IN MONGOLIA

CAPITAL CITY OF MONGOLIA<hr><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/kerege-travel.appspot.com/o/ckeditor%2Fmongolia_ulaanbator.jpg?alt=media&amp;token=3e10a185-d786-4032-b073-cd1980526cb8"></figure>Capital of present day Mongolia was founded in 1639 as a nomadic Buddhist monastic centre which was dedicated to Mongolian first head of Buddhism. Ulaanbaatar city with a four hundred year history settled permanently at its present location, the junction of Tuul and Selbe rivers in 1778. Like nearly half of total population, the capital city itself is nomadic. It changed location twenty-eight times, with each location being chosen ceremonially. The triumph of the Democratic Revolution in 1921 led Ulaanbaatar toward the rise of modern architecture and an urban development era. In the twentieth century, Ulaanbaatar grew into a major manufacturing center.&nbsp; Ulaanbaatar has a history to honor, stories to tell, picturesque landscape to present, mysterious temples and monasteries, fancy modern buildings. Its population as of 2016 was over 1.4 million, almost half of the country’s total population. People who have visited Ulaanbaatar witness its unique beauty. The traditional Mongolian felt Ger stands among a modern glass skyscrapers. People dressed in business suits rubbing shoulders with people in Mongolian traditional dressing (deel) on the downtown boulevards are unique scenes of the city that elicit excitement about the mixture of Western and Eastern cultures and contrast between modern and traditional lifestyles. Contemporary Ulaanbaatar is a rapidly evolving, expanding and fast growing metropolitan city. A railroad and an international airport connect the city with China and Russia. The scenic wooded peaks of the Hentiyn Mountain extend to the northeast of the city. We assure that Ulaanbaatar offers something surprising and exciting for everyone.&nbsp;

Capital of present day Mongolia was founded in 1639 as a nomadic Buddhist monastic centre which was dedicated to Mongolian first head of Buddhism. Ulaanbaatar city with a four hundred year history settled permanently at its present location, the junction of Tuul and Selbe rivers in 1778.

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HOW AN EAGLE FESTIVAL IS CHANGING TOURISM IN MONGOLIA

CAPITAL CITY OF MONGOLIA

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