Naadam and Nomadic Etiquette: Visiting Mongolia's Herding Families
What Naadam is and how to experience it, plus the customs that matter when you visit a ger: entering, where to sit, accepting food and drink, and gifts.
Short answer
Naadam, held in July, is Mongolia's national festival of wrestling, horse racing and archery. When visiting a herding family's ger, enter without stepping on the threshold, move clockwise, accept food and drink with your right hand (or both hands), don't point your feet at the hearth or altar, and bring a small gift.
Key points
- Naadam's three sports are wrestling, horse racing and archery.
- Don't step on the ger threshold.
- Move clockwise inside a ger.
- Accept offerings with the right hand or both hands.
Mongolia's nomadic culture is not a performance — it's daily life for many families. A few customs help you be a welcome guest, and Naadam offers a spectacular window into national traditions.
Naadam: the "three manly games"
| Sport | What to know |
|---|---|
| Wrestling | Wrestlers in traditional dress compete without weight classes; the eagle dance before and after matches is iconic |
| Horse racing | Cross-country races of many kilometres, ridden by young jockeys |
| Archery | Men and women compete; targets are small leather cylinders |
The national Naadam in Ulaanbaatar is the grandest. Local Naadams in the provinces are smaller and often closer to the action. Book accommodation and tours early for July.
Entering a ger
- Don't step on the threshold — step over it.
- Move clockwise inside the ger.
- Don't lean on the central support posts or walk between them.
- Men traditionally sit on the west side, women on the east; the back (north) is the place of honour. Follow your host's direction.
Food and drink
- Accept bowls of milk tea (süütei tsai), airag (fermented mare's milk in summer) or snacks with your right hand, or both hands, with your left supporting your right elbow.
- Take at least a small sip or taste even if you don't want more.
- Snuff bottle exchange is a traditional greeting; if offered, receive it with your right hand, sniff or admire it, and return it.
Things to avoid
- Pointing your feet at the hearth, the altar or people.
- Throwing rubbish into the stove.
- Touching people's hats or heads.
- Whistling inside a ger.
Gifts
Bring something practical — tea, sweets, fruit, small household items. Offer it with your right hand or both hands.
The bottom line
Mongolian hospitality is generous. Learning a few customs shows respect and makes visits warmer for everyone. Plan your route with Mongolia beyond Ulaanbaatar.
Questions readers ask
When is Naadam?
The main national Naadam takes place in Ulaanbaatar around 11–13 July. Smaller local Naadams happen in towns and provinces around the same period and can be more intimate.
What gift should I bring to a family?
Practical items such as tea, sweets, fruit or small household goods are appreciated. Ask your guide for advice.
