Altai Eagle Festival
🦅 Altai Eagle Festival – Nomadic Heritage at the Foot of the Altai Mountains
đź“ť Overview
Held every September in Altai village near the Altai Mountains of Bayan-Ulgii Province, the Altai Eagle Festival is one of Mongolia’s most authentic and community driven cultural events. Hosted by Kazakh eagle hunter families, this festival brings together generations of falconers to showcase their skills in golden eagle hunting, archery, horseback competitions, and traditional dress.
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Unlike larger festivals, the Altai Eagle Festival is locally organized, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness ancient traditions passed down through families. The golden eagles trained to hunt foxes, hares, and small prey take center stage, and their bond with the hunters is a living legacy of nomadic survival and honor.
đź“Ś Quick Facts
| đź“Ť Location | Sagsai Soum, Bayan-Ulgii Province |
|---|---|
| đź“… Dates | 6th, 7th of September, 2025 |
| 🦅 Focus | Eagle hunting, Kazakh traditions |
| 🏔️ Region | Altai Mountains, Western Mongolia |
| đź‘Ą Hosted by | Local Kazakh families |
🌟 Highlights
Golden eagle hunting contests
Horseback archery & “kiz kuu” (bride chase) games
Best traditional dress awards
Cultural performances and music
Eagle photography with real falconers
đź“Ť Nearby Attractions
🏔️ Altai Tavan Bogd National Park – Glaciers, peaks & UNESCO petroglyphs
💦 Khoton & Khurgan Lakes – Scenic alpine waters ideal for hiking
🌊 Baga Turgen Waterfall – Hidden gem within the park
🪨 Petroglyph Complex of Tsagaan Salaa – Ancient rock art
🪙 Human Stone Monuments – Turkic stone sculptures
✨ Special Features
One of the least commercial eagle festivals in Mongolia
Entirely organized by local Kazakh communities
Offers real interaction with eagle hunter families
Set in spectacular natural landscapes of the Altai range
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the difference between the Altai Eagle Festival and others?
A: It’s smaller, more personal, and focused on authentic Kazakh customs.
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Q: Is photography allowed?
A: Yes! It’s encouraged. Bring wide and telephoto lenses for stunning eagle portraits.
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Q: How do I get there?
A: Fly to Ulgii city from Ulaanbaatar, then travel by jeep to Altai village.
🧠Visitor Tips
Book flights and accommodations early (limited options in Ulgii)
Prepare for cold weather—October can drop below 0°C
Bring cash for local souvenirs, horse riding, or eagle photo sessions
Respect cultural customs—ask before taking close-up photos
❤️ Why Visit?
The Altai Eagle Festival is more than a spectacle—it’s a journey into the soul of Mongolia’s Kazakh culture, where eagles, horses, and humans move as one. Ideal for photographers, adventurers, and cultural travelers, this is an unforgettable immersion into one of the world’s last practicing falconry traditions.
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