Mongolia is Having a Moment

Maybe it’s all the pent up rage we have left over from last year but the notorious Mongol Genghis Khan (aka Chingis Khan) and his erstwhile empire are popping up on travel itineraries left and right. Holding its ground between Russia’s Siberian expanse and China, the rugged, nomadic land is just about as wild and far out as destinations get.

Today, the culture is largely pastoral and the locals welcome travelers openly. The best time to go is in July, during the Naadam Festival. Highlights include horse racing, wrestling, archery, performing arts, out-of-this-world Mongolian cuisine, eerie Khöömei overtone singing, dances, traditional rituals, and more.

Fun Fact: Cashmere startup Naadam works directly with Mongolian goat herders to source high-quality wool for their decadent line of clothing. To brush up on Mongol history before your 2022 trip, read the The Secret History of the Mongols: The Origin of Chingis Khan.

Get in the Mood:

The HU... This talented throat singing band from Mongolia’s capital of Ulaanbaatar, went viral as soon as their first video hit the internet. The best part? They’re touring the U.S. this fall.