Golden Eagle Festival

The Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia: A Journey into Tradition, Culture, and Adventure

Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival is a celebration unlike any other, held each year in the vast landscapes of the Altai Mountains in Bayan-Ölgii Province. Here, under the crisp October skies, Kazakh eagle hunters gather to showcase their skills and honor the ancient practice of hunting with golden eagles. This festival not only highlights the breathtaking bond between eagle and hunter but also offers visitors an immersive experience into Mongolia’s nomadic heritage and rugged beauty.

Origins and Significance of the Golden Eagle Festival

The Golden Eagle Festival traces its origins to the centuries-old Kazakh tradition of falconry, specifically hunting with golden eagles. This practice, passed down from generation to generation, represents not only a means of survival but a profound cultural heritage. Kazakh nomads have been practicing this form of hunting for over 6,000 years, and today, this tradition lives on through a close-knit community of eagle hunters, or berkutchi.

The festival was established in 1999 to preserve and promote this remarkable art, giving the outside world a rare glimpse into the life and skill of these hunters. Today, it is one of the most highly anticipated events in Mongolia, drawing travelers, photographers, and adventure seekers from around the globe.

What to Expect at the Festival

Held over two days in early October, the Golden Eagle Festival showcases competitions and events that test the skill, speed, and obedience of the eagles and the ability of the hunters. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect during this vibrant celebration:

The Opening Ceremony: The festival begins with a grand opening parade, where eagle hunters dressed in traditional attire—beautifully adorned with furs and embroidery—ride through the crowd with their eagles proudly perched on their arms. This visually stunning display is a photographer’s dream and a wonderful way to kick off the festival.

Eagle-Calling Competitions: One of the festival's most exciting events is the eagle-calling competition. Hunters climb to the top of a mountain ridge, then release their eagles to fly down toward them at high speeds. The challenge lies in the eagle recognizing and landing precisely on the hunter's arm, a skill that showcases the deep bond between the eagle and the hunter.

Fox Skin Drag Race: This is another exhilarating competition where hunters drag a fox skin behind their galloping horses to simulate a hunt, and their eagles must swoop down to capture it. It’s a powerful display of the eagle's hunting instinct and strength.

Traditional Kazakh Games: In addition to eagle competitions, festival-goers can witness traditional Kazakh games, including kukbar (a form of tug-of-war on horseback), archery, and horse racing. These games highlight the physical prowess and skill of the Kazakh nomads and are a significant part of their cultural heritage.

Cultural Performances and Handicrafts: The festival also features Kazakh folk performances, music, and dances, providing a window into the rich cultural life of the community. Handicrafts made by local artisans, such as embroidered textiles, felt products, and jewelry, are also available, making for unique souvenirs.

The Landscape and Experience

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Altai Mountains, the Golden Eagle Festival offers a rare opportunity to explore Mongolia’s untouched wilderness. Surrounded by vast open plains, snow-capped peaks, and rolling valleys, the setting itself is as breathtaking as the events. Many travelers choose to stay with nomadic families or in ger camps, which adds to the authenticity of the experience, giving them a chance to share in the warmth of Kazakh hospitality and daily life.

Beyond the festival, visitors can explore the rugged landscapes of western Mongolia, where hiking, horseback riding, and even camel treks are available. This region’s beauty and cultural significance make it a true gem for adventurers and those seeking to learn about Mongolia’s diverse heritage.