World Nomad Games

Thousands of years ago, a great divide emerged between nomads and farmers, with the Kyrgyz people choosing a nomadic lifestyle. They traveled with their herds, moving between mountain pastures in the summer and the lower valleys during the winter. This way of life is deeply embedded in the Kyrgyz people’s culture, influencing everything from their daily routines to their entertainment. While various ethno festivals offer a glimpse into this rich heritage, the best way to truly immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture is by attending the World Nomad Games.

First held in 2014, the World Nomad Games take place every two years, attracting athletes, artists, artisans, and spectators from around the globe. Previous editions have seen participants from nearly every continent (except Antarctica), with countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, China, Russia, Turkey, and the United States sending delegations. The event showcases ancient sports and competitions that have been part of nomadic life for centuries, including horse races, traditional games, hunting demonstrations, and wrestling.

The World Nomad Games celebrate ethnic sports rooted in the folk traditions of the historically nomadic peoples of Central Asia. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Games were first held in Kyrgyzstan at Lake Issyk-Kul, in the town of Cholpon-Ata, where they were hosted in 2014, 2016, and 2018. The 2022 Games took place in İznik, Turkey, while the 2024 Games were held in Astana, Kazakhstan. In 2026, the Games will return to Kyrgyzstan.

Wrestling is one of the most popular events, with athletes competing in traditional Central Asian wrestling styles, as well as mas wrestling, where competitors battle to wrest a stick from each other’s grip. Intellectual competitions, like the ancient board game mangala, challenge participants to think strategically, simulating tactics against potential enemies. Hunting games, featuring birds of prey and dogs, test the animals’ agility and speed as they chase after decoy targets.

However, the main highlight of the Nomad Games is the horse sports. In er enish, riders wrestle while on horseback, while in cirit, teams of riders try to hit their opponents with blunt javelins. The most popular event is kok boru, a fast-paced and intense game where teams of riders compete for control of a dead goat or sheep, aiming to score points by delivering the carcass into a goal. This dramatic sport often draws thousands of spectators, with teams from Central Asia dominating the competition. In 2016, a team of American cowboys became fan favorites, adding an exciting international twist to the Games.

Beyond the sports, the Nomad Games offer a rich cultural experience. In Kyrchyn Gorge, a yurt village featuring hundreds of yurts from every region of Kyrgyzstan becomes the center of festivities. Visitors can enjoy performances ranging from traditional improvisational music to thrilling horseback stunts. Cultural contests also take place, such as who can cook the best traditional dishes or set up a yurt the fastest. The yurt villages are open to all guests, providing the perfect opportunity to explore Kyrgyz hospitality, sample local cuisine, and shop for authentic handicrafts from master artisans.

The World Nomad Games are more than just a sporting event—they are a celebration of Central Asian culture and traditions. For travelers seeking an unforgettable experience, this festival offers a rare opportunity to be part of a unique atmosphere unlike any other in the world. It’s a highlight of any trip and a window into the soul of nomadic life.