The Mongolia Thousand Camel Festival is one of the most spectacular winter festivals in Mongolia, offering a unique cultural insight into the life of Gobi Desert camel herders. Established in 1997, this festival is not just a tourist attraction—it’s a deeply rooted local celebration that preserves traditions, promotes camel herding, and supports the livelihoods of nomadic communities.
Why the Camel Festival Is Celebrated
The festival has multiple purposes:
Protect and increase the two-humped Bactrian camel population
Enable nomads to exchange herding experiences
Improve the economic benefits of camels
Encourage community participation in environmental protection
Promote winter tourism
Support the livelihood of local families
Introduce the camel herding culture of the Gobi Desert locally and internationally
This festival has significantly influenced the camel population in Mongolia, growing from 192,000 to 460,000 nationwide.
Where Is the Camel Festival Held?
The festival takes place in Bulgan town, Umnugobi (South Gobi) province, 680 km from Ulaanbaatar. Bulgan town is central for camel herders, allowing participants to travel manageable distances for the festival.
Travel Tips:
Domestic flights are limited in winter; the most reliable option is driving 580 km on paved roads and 100 km on rough roads.
The location is near Gobi Desert attractions, such as Khongor Dunes, Flaming Cliffs, Khavtsgait Rock Drawings, Moltsog Dunes, Mukhar Shivert Valley, and Eagle Valley, making it ideal for an extended desert tour.
Accommodation During the Festival
Seasonal tourist ger camps are typically closed in winter. Visitors usually stay:
In Dalanzadgad hotels before and after the festival (100 km from Bulgan)
In local gers or family homes in Bulgan town during the festival, providing an authentic cultural experience
Camel Festival Events and Competitions
The festival spans two days and features unique competitions and cultural experiences:
Camel Polo: Teams of 5 compete using mallets and a large ball
Camel Parade: Over 100 camels participate, with tourists welcome to ride
Attractive Couple Contest: Couples and camels are judged 50/50 for presentation and decoration
Ice Anklebone Shooting: A traditional Mongolian game
Camel Races: Three categories – full-grown, 3-year-old, and 2-year-old camels
Children’s Concert: Performances by local schoolchildren
Local Club Party: Dance and socialize with locals in the town cultural hall
Team Competition: Groups of 5 compete in camel handling, halter making, and loading luggage in a timed challenge
Camel and Sheep Wool Exhibition: Promotes local products and community income
Camel Milk Products: Visitors can sample camel dairy products
Festival Closing: Prize distribution for winners
The 2016 festival set a Guinness World Record with 1,200 two-humped camels racing on the Gobi Desert steppes, involving over 6,000 camels and 10,000 people.
FAQs
Is the Camel Festival suitable for solo travelers?
Yes! Solo travelers can join group tours, participate in parades, and interact with local families while experiencing the festival safely.
What should I wear to the festival?
Warm, layered clothing is essential as temperatures can be very cold in the Gobi Desert during winter. A hat, gloves, thermal layers, and sturdy boots are recommended.
Can I take photographs or videos at the festival?
Absolutely. Tourists are encouraged to capture the colorful camel parades, competitions, and cultural activities. Be respectful when photographing locals, especially during ceremonies.
How physically demanding is the festival?
While most events are spectator-friendly, some activities like camel riding or walking on rough desert terrain require moderate physical activity.
Check out our Mongolia Thousand Camel Festival tour here:
Can I combine the festival with other tours?
Yes! Bulgan is close to Gobi Desert attractions, allowing you to add extra days to explore Flaming Cliffs, Khongor Dunes, Mukhar Shivert Valley, and more. Check out our
Check out our tour packages here: Mongolia Thousand Camel Festival Tour https://tour2mongolia.com/tours/mongolia-winter-camel-festival-and-dog-sledding-8-days-tour
