Naadam Festival and Central Mongolia: A Cultural Journey

Jan 3, 2025

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Naadam Festival and Central Mongolia: A Cultural Journey

** This trip is fully booked **

Mongolia, a land of endless steppes, rugged mountains, and untouched wilderness, is a country rooted in history and nomadic traditions. As the birthplace of Genghis Khan, the legendary founder of the Mongol Empire, Mongolia’s rich past is filled with stories of conquest, unity, and cultural exchange. Today, Genghis Khan’s legacy is deeply woven into the nation’s identity, reflected in its proud traditions and historic landmarks.

From 4 to 14 July 2025, The Siam Society, under the leadership of Dr Navamintr Vitayakul, invites you to embark on this extraordinary journey to Mongolia. This trip offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s vibrant culture, captivating history and breathtaking landscapes with the highlight being the Naadam Festival. This annual celebration of Mongolia’s heritage features the legendary “Three Manly Games”—wrestling, horse racing, and archery—events that trace their origins back to the era of Genghis Khan.

Beyond the festival, the journey delves into the heart of Central Mongolia, visiting Kharkhorin, the ancient capital of the Mongol Empire and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the serene Terelj National Park, famed for its dramatic rock formations and alpine landscapes.

From the exhilarating Naadam celebrations to the tranquil beauty of the steppes, this trip weaves together history, culture, and nature, offering a deep connection to Mongolia’s enduring nomadic spirit.

When

Friday, 4 to Monday, 14 July 2025

Leader

with Dr Navamintr Vitayakul

Council Member and Chairperson of the Lecture Committee of The Siam Society

Booking

See information below

Or contact Khun Thun

studytrips@thesiamsociety.org

 

The tentative programme will be as follows:

Day 1: Friday, 4 July: Bangkok
23:00 Meet at Suvarnabhumi Airport and check in at the counter of Air China.
Day 2: Saturday, 5 July: Bangkok – Beijing – Ulaanbaatar
01:15 Depart Bangkok for Beijing by Air China flight CA980.
07:00 Arrive at Beijing International Airport.
08:40 Depart Beijing for Ulaanbaatar by Air China flight CA901.
10:50 Arrive at Chinggis Khaan International Airport and transfer to a local restaurant.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Check-in at the hotel.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel, Ulaanbaatar.
 
Day 3: Sunday, 6 July: Ulaanbaatar – Kharkhorin
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and proceed to Kharkhorin. Also spelt Kharkhorum, it is a town in central Mongolia. Once the capital of the Mongol Empire in the 13th century, it was founded by Genghis Khan and flourished under Ögedei Khan.  The city declined after Kublai Khan moved the capital to Beijing in 1260 and was destroyed in 1388 by Ming forces. Today, the ruins of Kharkhorum have been preserved since 1961 and were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Visit the Kharkhorum Museum and the Ruins of Ancient Kharkhorum, and explore the remnants of the once-thriving capital of the Mongol Empire, founded by Genghis Khan. The ruins include foundations of palaces, city walls and remnants of important structures from the 13th century.  Nearby are the Turtle Rock Statues, ancient stone carvings marking the ancient city’s boundaries. These statues, resembling turtles, were believed to offer protection and symbolise longevity.
– Visit Erdene Zuu Monastery, built in 1586 near the ruins of Kharkhorum. This is Mongolia’s oldest Buddhist monastery and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Surrounded by 108 white stupas, it showcases the blend of Tibetan and Mongolian architecture. Though damaged during the 1930s purges, it was later restored and now functions as both a museum and a working monastery.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at an en-suite yurt, Kharkhorin. Immersing yourself in a traditional Mongolian experience.
Day 4: Monday, 7 July: Kharkhorin – Bulgan
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and proceed to Khogno Khan Nature Reserve, located in the scenic Khogno Khan mountain range, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky landscapes. Explore the historic Erdene Khamba Monastery, a Buddhist site originally founded in the 17th century. Although it was destroyed during the Stalinist purges, parts of the monastery have been restored, offering a fascinating glimpse into Mongolia’s spiritual history and Buddhist architecture. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the temple, taking in the stunning views of the Khogno Khan mountain range and the serene beauty of the surrounding nature reserve.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Visit a Mongolian nomadic family yurt, where you can learn about their traditional way of life and customs. Afterwards, embark on a camel ride through the stunning Elsen Tasarkhai semi-sand dunes, a unique natural formation offering striking contrasts between sand, grasslands, and mountains.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at an en-suite yurt in Khogno Khan Nature Reserve, Bulgan. 
Day 5: Tuesday, 8 July: Bulgan – Ulaanbaatar
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and depart back to Ulaanbaatar.
Noon: On the way, stop for lunch and see the Mongol Nomadic Show. Experience live performances with Morin Khuur (horse fiddle) and folk songs, participate in a feast with singing, dancing, and traditional games. Watch demonstrations of dairy processing and vodka brewing, try archery, and make felt. We’ll also see how nomadic strollers, like cow carriages and yak cargo, are used. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, and enjoy Mongolian food and drinks like Airag (fermented mare’s milk) and Mongolian vodka.
– Continue to Ulaanbaatar.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel, Ulaanbaatar.  
Day 6: Wednesday, 9 July: Ulaanbaatar
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel and proceed to visit Genghis Khan Statue Complex, located in Tsonjin Boldog, a historically significant site where it is believed that Genghis Khan discovered his golden whip. The towering 40-metre-high statue of Genghis Khan, made of stainless steel, is the largest of its kind in the world. Standing astride his horse, the statue symbolises the power and legacy of the great Mongol leader. From here, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding steppe and learn about Genghis Khan’s monumental impact on history.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon: Continue to Gorkhi Terelj National Park, which is renowned for its stunning granite cliffs shaped by centuries of natural erosion. The park is famous for its striking rock formations, with some resembling giant turtles, earning the area its nickname as a natural wonder.
– Admire the Giant Turtle Rock and explore the surrounding landscape, taking in the unique beauty of the area. Afterwards, visit the Ariyabal Meditation Temple, a small Buddhist temple perched in the park. Experience peace and serenity while enjoying panoramic views of the mountains.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at an en-suite yurt, Ulaanbaatar.
Day 7: Thursday, 10 July: Ulaanbaatar
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Check out of the hotel, and drive back to the city centre of Ulaanbaatar.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant.
Afternoon:

 

 

 Visit Sukhbaatar Square. The central landmark commemorates Damdin Sukhbaatar, a key figure in Mongolia’s independence movement. Marvel at the grand statue of Sukhbaatar astride his horse, and view the surrounding architecture, including the Government House, the State Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the imposing statue of Genghis Khan.  The square is a vibrant hub of activity and a symbol of Mongolia’s modern identity.
– Continue to visit Gandan Monastery, officially known as Gandantegchinlen Monastery. This is the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Mongolia, admire the impressive 26-metre gilded statue of Avalokiteshvara (Buddha of Compassion), after that proceed to visit Bogd Khaan Palace Museum, which was once the winter residence of the 8th Bogd Jebtsundamba, Mongolia’s last spiritual and political leader. This beautifully preserved complex comprises six temples and the royal residence. Explore the intricate carvings, religious artefacts, and personal belongings of the Bogd Khaan.
– Visit Choijin Lama Temple Museum. This former monastery complex is now a museum. Wander through its intricately decorated halls and admire artefacts like thangkas (religious paintings), sculptures, and masks used in sacred dances and visit the National Museum of Mongolian History. Exhibitions range from the prehistoric era to the Mongol Empire, the time of Genghis Khan, and modern times.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel, Ulaanbaatar.
 
Day 8: Friday, 11 July: Ulaanbaatar (Naadam Festival, Mongolia)
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Drive to Chinggis Square to witness the grand ceremony of placing the National Nine White Banner, a symbol of Mongolia’s independence and unity. After that move to Central Stadium to watch the thrilling archery competition, an ancient tradition showcasing precision and skill.
Noon: Lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy traditional Mongolian dishes like Khuushuur (fried dumplings) and buuz (steamed dumplings).
Afternoon: Activities focus on the Three Manly Games:

·       Wrestling (Bökh): Watch over 500 competitors face off in the first round of the national wrestling tournament.

·       Archery: Continue to enjoy the ongoing archery contest.

·       Ankle Bone Shooting (Shagain Kharvaa): Witness this unique traditional game that requires precision and concentration.
Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight at Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel, Ulaanbaatar.
Day 9: Saturday, 12 July: Ulaanbaatar (Naadaam Festival, Mongolia)
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning:

 

 Drive to Khui Doloon Khudag (Horse-Racing Field). Experience the excitement of Naadam’s horse races in the open steppe with the Five-Year-Old Horse (Soyolon) Race. Watch the Soyolon race, featuring five-year-old horses trained by Mongolian herders. Then the Two-Year-Old Horse (Daaga) Race. Enjoy the Daaga race, where young horses show their speed and skill. After the races, also view traditional performances and cultural activities alongside the races.
Noon: Lunch at a horse-racing area.
Afternoon: Drive back to the hotel, and relax at the hotel.
– Proceed to the Central Stadium and view the final round of the Wrestling Tournament, award Ceremony and Closing Ceremony. The festival will conclude with performances, speeches, and fireworks.
Evening: Dinner and overnight at Best Western Premier Tuushin Hotel, Ulaanbaatar.
Day 10: Monday, 13 July: Ulaanbaatar – Beijing
– Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning: Transfer to the Chinggis Khaan International Airport.
11:50 Depart Ulaanbaatar for Beijing by Air China flight CA902.
13:50 Arrive at Beijing International Airport.
20:00 Depart Beijing for Bangkok by Air China flight CA979.
Day 11: Tuesday, 14 July: Bangkok
00:10 Arrive at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The Siam Society reserves the right to change the programme as necessary.

 

 

Booking:

Contribution of THB 181,000 (THB 185,000 for non-member). Single room surcharge of THB 16,000. A deposit of THB 50,000 and a photocopy of the identification page on your passport must accompany the booking. Your reservation will be confirmed as soon as the deposit has been made. Payment in full will be required 90 days before the start of the trip (i.e. by Friday, 4 April 2025). There is a 4% surcharge for credit/debit card payment to cover bank charges. Please pay by cash or cheque payable to “The Siam Society”. Transfer can also be made to The Siam Society travel account at TMBThanachart Bank (ttb), saving account no. 053-2-18000-7, swift code: TMBKTHBK or by scanning the QR code below. Once the payment has been made, please e-mail the deposit or transfer docket to us.

The maximum number of participants for this trip is 20 people.

For those who have already made a pre-booking with us, kindly be informed that your booking is not confirmed without making the deposit. Please contact Khun Thun at studytrips@thesiamsociety.org or call 089-893-2838 to check the availability of this trip before making your deposit.

Inclusions:

  • The contribution includes accommodation (sharing basis), meals as mentioned in the program, transfer and sightseeing cars, entrance fees, gratuities and other costs incurred to make this trip possible.
  • Basic travel insurance which will only cover participants travelling from and back to Thailand.

Exclusions:

  • All air tickets mentioned in the programme (Bangkok – Beijing – Ulaanbaatar and Ulaanbaatar – Beijing – Bangkok), but for those who would like us to book their tickets, it can be arranged at the time of booking. The approximate airfare will be THB 34,000 for economy class and THB 68,000 for business class (prices as of December).
  • Visa fees (if any), personal expenses, personal food and beverage consumptions, etc.

Please note that the flight itinerary between Bangkok – Beijing – Ulaanbaatar and Ulaanbaatar – Beijing – Bangkok as mentioned in the programme only serves as a suggestion. Trip participants can travel with their preferred airline of choice throughout the above sequence of the itinerary.

Tourist Visa Policy

Thai, United States, Canada, All European Union member states, Switzerland, Japan, and Australia passport holders have visa-free entry to Mongolia for up to 30 days to 90 days of stay depending on your nationality.

Cancellation charges:

90 days before the start of the trip: Deposit forfeited
89 – 61 days before the start of the trip: 50% of the tour cost
Less than 60 days or cancellation without notice: No refund

*The cancellation charges will also depend on the date we pay the deposit to our travel agent. If we have to pay the deposit to the travel agent before the 90-day period prior to the start of the trip, our officer will send an email to inform every participant before we make the payment as only a partial amount of the deposit can be refunded after that point.

Covid-19 policy

Due to a lower number of worldwide infections, many countries have relaxed their travel restrictions and quarantine requirements regarding Covid-19.

Nevertheless, when travelling as a group, The Siam Society would like to remind you of the following measures that we have put in place:

– We suggest performing a self-administered ATK test before the commencement of the trip. Participants can also carry ATK test kits, along with their preferred set of medicines (for consumption if infected with Covid-19) with them.

– In the event that trip participants are tested positive during the trip, the group will continue to follow the planned itinerary. To ensure the health and safety of all trip participants, those who tested positive shall adhere to appropriate self-isolation measures as directed by the trip leader.

Those tested positive with severe symptoms shall be treated in accordance with the health measures stipulated by the local government. Medical costs shall be at the expense of the trip participant(s).

For further information and bookings, please contact Khun Thun at 02-661-6470-3 ext 205, or studytrips@thesiamsociety.org. The Society’s office is open from 09:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Saturday.

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