Experience the grandeur of the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia, wherein the Kazakh hunters participate from near and far to be a part of the festival. Portraying the rich culture and traditions via the festival, the locals ensure that these carry forward with generations to come. The hunters train golden eagles for months and years for the festival and showcase their talent and the region’s history. If you are a history buff, zealot, or cultural enthusiast, witness the festival celebration and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The festival usually takes place in September and October. So, mark your calendars and plan the trip for a unique and thrilling experience.
5 Highlights Of The Golden Eagle Festival In Mongolia
Check out what you can expect from the vibrant Golden Eagle Festival. With impeccable cuisine, locals hunting golden eagles, and whatnot, you can have memorable spectacles in life.
1. Opening Parade
Beginning with a spectacular opening parade, the Golden Eagle Festival sets the exciting tone and leaves everyone in awe. The locals and participants wear vibrant traditional attire, showcasing Mongolian culture and heritage. Horse riders, dancers, and musicians create a lively atmosphere for everyone to enjoy with enthusiasm and energy. The procession takes place on the festive grounds while the beating sounds of traditional musical instruments, like morin khuur, set the backdrop. The opening parade introduces the event and draws locals and tourists together to be ready for the most-awaited event.
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2. Eagle Hunting Competitions
Eagle hunting is the heart of the festival. Skilled hunters across Mongolia participate in competitions to showcase their bond with the creatures trained to play small games. Competitors often wear traditional attire and present their trained eagles to the audience by perching them on their arms. The one who is more exceptional in speed, accuracy, discipline, and other elements gets closer to winning. Eagle hunting competitions showcase the bond between nature and man. Moreover, it represents the cultural heritage and traditions of the nomadic Kazakh people. Many tourists attend the festival for its uniqueness and history.
3. Display Of An Eagle Hunting A Fox
Check out the eating hunting display, where golden eagles showcase their trained hunting skills and abilities. A fox is released during the event, and the eagles are commanded to approach it. The eagles showcase their speed and accuracy while pursuing the fox. The spectacle of an eagle attacking a fox is worth the watch. This hunt represents the age-old bond between the hunters and their birds- the hunters’ guidance and the instinctive prowess of eagles. The festival brings the significance of falconry in Mongolian culture and the need to protect the natural habitat of eagles. Overall, the dramatic displays of eagles hunting a fox create a memorable experience for all attendees.
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4. Traditional Cuisine And Culinary Delights
While witnessing the Golden Eagle Festival, savour the impeccable traditional Mongolian cuisine and have a delightful culinary experience. Taste the authentic flavours and ingredients that define the cuisine. Buuz (steamed dumplings), khorkhog (barbecue mutton cooked with stones), and dried curds highlight Mongolian cuisine. Many vendors and local cooks set up stalls at the festival, inviting you to have a delightful gastronomical experience. So, immerse yourself in the country’s culture and heritage by indulging in culinary delights.
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5. Closing Ceremony And Awards
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The closing event of the Golden Eagle Festival is an important moment that brings a lasting touch to the attendants. The participants gather to celebrate the victories of hunters and their eagles. The awards are presented to the best performers in distinct competitions, appreciating the skills and the bond. People give speeches, and the ceremony is filled with traditional music. The closing ceremony reminds locals and tourists of the rich traditions present today and the importance of preserving them for new generations to come.
Dates And Location Of Golden Eagle Festival In Mongolia
The Mongolian Golden Eagle Festival is held in the quaint and picturesque town of Ulgii. It is accessible by a domestic flight from the capital, Ulaanbaatar, and takes approximately 3 hours. Upon reaching the airport, you embark on a scenic 16 km ride to the festival grounds. The festival location is surreal and offers the perfect backdrop for the festivities.
The Golden Eagle Festival Mongolia 2024 dates are September 17th and 18th, September 21st and 22nd, and October 5th and 6th. In 2025, the estimate dates of the festival are 17th & 18th September, 20th and 21st September, and 4th & 5th October.
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How To Reach Mongolia
Mongolia in East Asia is an easy-to-reach destination. Here’s the breakdown to reach the destination via different modes of transportation:-
By Air
You can fly to Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, the capital. The airport is connected to many international destinations, so check the nearest airport per your location.
By Road
If you are travelling from neighbouring countries, such as Russia and China, you can come via road by car, bus, or cab.
By Train
The Trans-Siberian Railway is ideal for those planning to travel to Mongolia by train. It connects Moscow and Ulaanbaatar. Some trains from China also offer a seamless route into Mongolia.
Overall, you can plan to reach Mongolia using the transportation that suits your location and preferences.
Tips For Attendees
Make your experience of witnessing the Golden Eagle Festival more comfortable and hassle-free by following the best tips. Some of these include:-
- Prepare your wardrobe wisely, including comfortable footwear, warm clothes with layers, and accessories. As the weather conditions fluctuate, one must be prepared.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid the harmful effects of sun exposure. Though temperatures can be more relaxed, sun rays can be intense. Also, keep a water bottle handy to keep yourself hydrated.
- Carry a reliable camera to capture captivating images of the festival. Keep spare batteries and memory cards portable for perfect documentation.
- Look for accommodation options near the festival venue for effortless and earlier access. As many guesthouses and hotels are pre-booked, it is advisable to book one in time to avoid last-minute hassle. To have an overall festival experience, one can opt for a homestay experience with a Kazakh family.
- Respect local customs and familiarise yourself with basic Mongolian phrases and etiquette to demonstrate reverence for tradition.
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Witness the Golden Eagle Festival’s rich traditions, rituals, and celebrations with zeal and happiness. The thrilling sight of an eagle hunting on a fox, eagle hunting, and whatnot blows the bind away. So, plan your trip to Asia for the finest festive experience with loved ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Black Necked Crane Festival
Which month is the Golden Eagle Festival organised in Mongolia?
The Golden Eagle Festival usually occurs twice, in September and October, in a small village called Ulgii.
What is the Mongolian eagle tradition?
Rooted in the nomadic Kazakh culture, the Mongolian eagle tradition involves training golden eagles for hunting. Hunters are known as ‘berkutchi’ and demonstrate their relationship with eagles. The festival highlights the respect for nature and the environment.
What to wear at the Golden Eagle Festival?
As the weather can fluctuate, it is advisable to carry layers of warm clothes and accessories. For the best experience, one can also wear comfortable footwear.
Where is the Golden Eagle Festival held?
The Golden Eagle Festival is held in Ulgii, a small village in Mongolia. The events usually take place in open areas, where hunters showcase their ability to train eagles, the intensity of the creatures' hunting, and more.
What are the activities conducted during the Golden Eagle Festival?
During the Golden Eagle Festival, many cultural and exciting activities occur, including eagle hunting competitions and displays of eagles hunting fox.
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