| On our first official day, we left the central city of Ulaanbaatar and visited a camp called Mongol Nomadic. This camp is about an hour outside the city and is what I like to call the “get your feet wet” camp.
For many visitors to Mongolia, this is their most cultural experience. For us, it’s just the beginning!
Mongol Nomadic camp is a great place to start understanding and immersing in traditional Mongolian culture. This is also the first place our guests experience sleeping in a Ger (Yurt).
After being served an incredible meal, the fun begins. Greeting us by Yaks, Camels, and Horse, our Mongolian friends come across the small valley field, waving and summoning us to them.
Riding a Yak or Camel allows us to venture back across the field to where we are served traditional treats such as Mongolian milk vodka known as Shimiin Arkhi.
The Mongolian way of distilling has not changed over the centuries, for the nomads have already perfected it.
Next up was traditional music with Tuvan throat singing and indigenous instruments. Throat singing is mesmerizing to listen to and watch.
It’s incredible to hear the singer use their ability to create a deep, almost growl-like voice while simultaneously harmonizing with a high-pitched whistle. The morin khuur, also known as the horsehead fiddle and other instruments, accompany the vocalist. Hearing this in person and up close will give you goosebumps. |
