Mongolia is set to host the highly anticipated Eagle Festival 2025 on March 8-9 at the Chinggis Khaanii Khuree tourist complex. Celebrating its 19th year, this festival is a vital heritage event that preserves the ancient art of eagle hunting while promoting cultural tourism. It aims not only to honour local traditions but also to captivate international visitors fascinated by one of Central Asia’s last remaining nomadic customs.
This year, 22 eagle hunters from Mongolia’s Bayan-Ulgii, Tuv, Selenge, and Arkhangai provinces, along with participants from Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, will showcase their skills, enhancing regional tourism ties and offering an authentic cultural experience. Organised by the Capital’s Department of Tourism and the Mongolian Eagle Hunters Association, and supported by various governmental entities, the festival promises a fantastic display of traditional nomadic culture.
Competitions will see eagle hunters dressed in elaborate costumes ride horseback, presenting their majestic birds of prey. Judges will evaluate participants based on costume craftsmanship, eagle equipment quality, and handling skills. Attendees can also enjoy Kazakh cultural performances, local crafts, traditional cuisine, and visit Kazakh yurts for an intimate glimpse into the eagle hunters’ daily lives.
Eagle hunting, known as “Shuvuuchlakhui,” has roots going back 6,000 years, originating among nomadic Central Asian communities. This enduring tradition is emblematic of resilience and cultural pride among the Kazakh and Mongolian peoples. Recognised by UNESCO in 2010 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, eagle hunting significantly enhances Mongolia’s appeal to global tourists, enticing those passionate about history and culture.
Mongolia seeks to establish itself as a premier destination for cultural and adventure tourism, with the Eagle Festival playing a crucial role in this strategy. Experts note that the festival, along with events like the Naadam Festival, attracts niche markets focused on ethnographic experiences and wildlife tourism, resonating with travellers eager for authenticity and immersive culture.
The rise of experiential tourism—which prioritises authentic interactions—positions events like the Eagle Festival as rare opportunities for engaging with nomadic traditions. Beyond tourism, the festival acts as a platform for indigenous communities, enabling eagle hunters to share their heritage, earn a livelihood, and preserve their customs for future generations.
Tourism authorities advocate for responsible travel, urging visitors to support local artisans, engage respectfully with traditions, and contribute to preserving Mongolia’s unique nomadic ecosystem. With growing global interest in eco-tourism and cultural heritage, the Eagle Festival is poised to attract not just thrill-seekers but also conservationists drawn to Mongolia’s blend of tradition and modernity.
As a flagship event in Mongolia, the Eagle Festival enhances the nation’s prominence on the cultural tourism map, fostering cross-border collaborations with Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. As international tourism rises in Central Asia, festivals like this play a crucial role in showcasing Mongolia’s distinctive cultural identity, drawing adventurous travellers from far-flung destinations across Europe and North America.
Tourism analysts observe a trend toward cultural festivals, as contemporary travellers seek more than mere sightseeing, favouring deeper connections with the places they visit. The Eagle Festival caters to these culture-focused tourists, promising not just an event but an extraordinary journey of discovery through photography and a close encounter with ancient nomadic traditions.
Mongolia’s Eagle Festival 2025, scheduled for March 8-9 at Chinggis Khaanii Khuree, is a significant cultural event celebrating the ancient tradition of eagle hunting. It features 22 eagle hunters from various regions and aims to attract international visitors while promoting tourism. The festival includes competitions, traditional performances, and local cuisine, highlighting Mongolia’s rich heritage and commitment to preserving its nomadic culture.
The Eagle Festival 2025 will be a vivid celebration of Mongolia’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing breathtaking eagle hunting traditions amid a stunning natural backdrop. It promises an engaging experience for tourists from around the globe, enhancing Mongolia’s status as a must-visit destination for those seeking authentic cultural encounters. By spotlighting the nomadic way of life and fostering responsible tourism, the festival reinforces the importance of preserving these age-old traditions and supporting local communities.
Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com
