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Mongolia🇲🇳 | festivalsTsagaan Sarlunar new year, family gatherings, traditional foods | things to do and best time to go

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Backpacking in Tsagaan Sar
🌟 Highlightfestival ranked #3
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated June 10, 2026

Ten, fifteen years ago, Tsagaan Sar in Mongolia felt almost sealed off from outsiders: family gers on the steppe, no English, no tour packages, just smoke from dung fires and the sound of boots crunching on snow. Today, most travelers hit it in and around Ulaanbaatar, in central Mongolia, where the capital’s apartments and nearby countryside gers host a more curated version: organized homestays, city concerts, and tour vans idling outside Soviet blocks. Tsagaan Sar is the lunar new year, so think family reunion first, festival second. The soundtrack is throat singing, long songs, and TV variety shows, not EDM. The vibe is formal, boozy, and deeply hospitable, with days of visiting houses, eating mutton, and drinking airag. It’s worth it if you want culture over spectacle and can handle awkward, smoky, slightly exhausting house-hopping; if you want parties and nightlife, skip it and come in summer.

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✨ Why go?
Ranked #3 festival in MongoliaReasons people choose to celebrate the here

Backpackers flock to Tsagaan Sar for a taste of Mongolia’s vibrant social energy. This lunar New Year festival isn’t just a celebration; it’s a temporary community where locals welcome travelers with open arms. You’ll dive headfirst into cultural immersion, sharing meals and traditions that stretch back centuries.

Planning your route around this festival isn’t just smart; it’s a savvy way to experience Mongolia’s heart. The affordability of Tsagaan Sar compared to similar global events means you can splurge on local delicacies without breaking the bank.

Plus, it fits seamlessly into longer travel plans. Imagine kicking off your adventure in the steppes, then rolling into the festival, and finally heading to the Gobi Desert. Each step builds momentum, turning your journey into a rich tapestry … read more 👉
Backpackers flock to Tsagaan Sar for a taste of Mongolia’s vibrant social energy. This lunar New Year festival isn’t just a celebration; it’s a temporary community where locals welcome travelers with open arms. You’ll dive headfirst into cultural immersion, sharing meals and traditions that stretch back centuries.

Planning your route around this festival isn’t just smart; it’s a savvy way to experience Mongolia’s heart. The affordability of Tsagaan Sar compared to similar global events means you can splurge on local delicacies without breaking the bank.

Plus, it fits seamlessly into longer travel plans. Imagine kicking off your adventure in the steppes, then rolling into the festival, and finally heading to the Gobi Desert. Each step builds momentum, turning your journey into a rich tapestry of experiences. Don’t miss out—this is where the real magic happens.
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💡 HighlightsEssential experiences to have while celebrating the Tsagaan Sar

  • Zolgokh — the formal greeting ritual: The core Tsagaan Sar moment where younger people perform a careful greeting to elders (arms-under-arms, offering a white scarf or small gift). It’s intimate, slow, and full of respect — you’ll see family hierarchies and affection laid out in a single ceremony. Personal favorite — it’s the most human, up-close part of the holiday.
  • The feast: buuz, dairy, and ul boov: Mountains of steamed dumplings (buuz), bowls of milk tea and fermented dairy, plus the stacked ceremonial cake (ul boov) make food the festival’s centerpiece. The flavours and quantities tell you everything about hospitality and abundance in Mongolian culture.
  • Deel and new clothes: Folks dress up in colorful deels and embroidered hats — new outfits symbolize a fresh year and family pride.
… read more 👉
  • Zolgokh — the formal greeting ritual: The core Tsagaan Sar moment where younger people perform a careful greeting to elders (arms-under-arms, offering a white scarf or small gift). It’s intimate, slow, and full of respect — you’ll see family hierarchies and affection laid out in a single ceremony. Personal favorite — it’s the most human, up-close part of the holiday.
  • The feast: buuz, dairy, and ul boov: Mountains of steamed dumplings (buuz), bowls of milk tea and fermented dairy, plus the stacked ceremonial cake (ul boov) make food the festival’s centerpiece. The flavours and quantities tell you everything about hospitality and abundance in Mongolian culture.
  • Deel and new clothes: Folks dress up in colorful deels and embroidered hats — new outfits symbolize a fresh year and family pride. Seeing different regional styles and everyone polished for visits makes the streets and gers pop with color and personality.
  • Ger hospitality and visiting circuit: Tsagaan Sar is essentially a town-wide visitathon: you move between homes, remove your boots, accept tea and snacks, and follow seating and serving order. The rhythm of house-to-house visiting, with extended family dropping in and out, gives the festival a warm, communal pulse.
  • Music, throat singing, and folk performances: Expect morin khuur (horse-head fiddle), throat singing (khöömii), folk songs and impromptu storytelling. These sounds — eerie, proud, and soulful — are a big part of the atmosphere and often appear informally around tables or in the yard.
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Things to do around Tsagaan Sar

11 Day World Heritage Orkhon Valley National Park Cycling Tour

11 Day World Heritage Orkhon Valley National Park Cycling Tour

5.0(11) 264h
From €2,619
per personViator
Private Ulaanbaatar Tour: Small-Group with a Local Guide

Private Ulaanbaatar Tour: Small-Group with a Local Guide

5.0(4) 12h
✓ Free cancellation
From €400
per personViator
Ulaanbaatars Nomads to Nobilities Self Guided Audio Walking Tour

Ulaanbaatars Nomads to Nobilities Self Guided Audio Walking Tour

5.0(1)
✓ Free cancellation
From €10.49
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

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🌤️ When to go?When is the celebration of Tsagaan Sar?


  • Weather: Tsagaan Sar falls in late January or early February, smack in the middle of Mongolia’s brutal winter. Temperatures can plunge to -20°C (-4°F) or lower, so brace for biting cold that demands serious layering and gear built for Siberian chill.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs hover around -10°C (14°F), but nights dive deeper into the freeze. This isn’t a casual stroll weather—your body will work overtime just staying warm.

  • Daylight Hours: Short winter days mean roughly 7-8 hours of daylight. Plan your trekking and sightseeing tightly; the sun sets early, and the cold intensifies after dark.

  • Crowds: Locals flood the cities and countryside to celebrate family and tradition, but international tourists are scarce. You’ll get an authentic, intimate vibe without the usual festival crush.

  • Seasonal
… read more 👉

  • Weather: Tsagaan Sar falls in late January or early February, smack in the middle of Mongolia’s brutal winter. Temperatures can plunge to -20°C (-4°F) or lower, so brace for biting cold that demands serious layering and gear built for Siberian chill.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs hover around -10°C (14°F), but nights dive deeper into the freeze. This isn’t a casual stroll weather—your body will work overtime just staying warm.

  • Daylight Hours: Short winter days mean roughly 7-8 hours of daylight. Plan your trekking and sightseeing tightly; the sun sets early, and the cold intensifies after dark.

  • Crowds: Locals flood the cities and countryside to celebrate family and tradition, but international tourists are scarce. You’ll get an authentic, intimate vibe without the usual festival crush.

  • Seasonal Activities: The festival centers on family gatherings, traditional meals, and rituals rather than outdoor adventures. Expect limited hiking or nomadic encounters due to snow-covered terrain.

  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation and transport prices spike slightly around Tsagaan Sar as locals travel home. Book early to lock in rates and avoid last-minute surges.


Pro-tip: Arrive a day or two before the festival to acclimate, secure lodging, and soak in the quiet before the cultural whirlwind hits—this timing saves your energy and wallet for the moments that count.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: highly recommended for travelingFEBFebruary: highly recommended for travelingMARMarch: not recommended for travelingAPRApril: not recommended for travelingMAYMay: not recommended for travelingJUNJune: not recommended for travelingJULJuly: not recommended for travelingAUGAugust: not recommended for travelingSEPSeptember: not recommended for travelingOCTOctober: not recommended for travelingNOVNovember: not recommended for travelingDECDecember: not recommended for traveling

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🛏️ Where to stay?How to pick the right area

When you’re gearing up for Tsagaan Sar, the lunar new year celebration in Mongolia, your choice of where to stay can make or break the experience. Head to Ulaanbaatar’s central district. It’s buzzing with energy, and you’ll find a mix of budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. This area is a social hub, perfect for meeting fellow travelers and sharing stories over a bowl of buuz.

Another solid option is the area around Sukhbaatar Square. It’s not just about proximity to the festivities; it’s about the vibe. You’ll be close to local markets and eateries, where you can dive into authentic Mongolian … read more 👉
When you’re gearing up for Tsagaan Sar, the lunar new year celebration in Mongolia, your choice of where to stay can make or break the experience. Head to Ulaanbaatar’s central district. It’s buzzing with energy, and you’ll find a mix of budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels. This area is a social hub, perfect for meeting fellow travelers and sharing stories over a bowl of buuz.

Another solid option is the area around Sukhbaatar Square. It’s not just about proximity to the festivities; it’s about the vibe. You’ll be close to local markets and eateries, where you can dive into authentic Mongolian cuisine.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider the outskirts of the city. Some ger camps offer a unique experience, letting you soak in the culture while still being a short ride from the action. Just be aware of transport options; plan ahead to avoid last-minute scrambles.

Stay smart, stay social, and keep your energy for the celebrations that matter.
Best hostels in Mongolia


Best quality hotels in Mongolia

👛 Costs (as of 31 July 2025)How expensive it really is

The Tsagaan Sar festival in Mongolia is a vibrant celebration that can be both exhilarating and budget-friendly if you navigate the costs wisely. Here’s what you need to know to keep your energy and budget intact while soaking in the festivities.
  • Festival Tickets: Entry to Tsagaan Sar is generally free, but you might want to budget for special events or performances. Expect to pay around €10-€30 ($10-$35) for any organized activities or cultural shows that enhance your experience.
  • Accommodation: Options range from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. Prices can vary widely. Budget travelers can find dormitory beds for about €10-€15 ($10-$18) per night, while private rooms in guesthouses typically cost €20-€40 ($22-$45). Book early; places fill up fast during the festival.
  • Local Transport:
… read more 👉
The Tsagaan Sar festival in Mongolia is a vibrant celebration that can be both exhilarating and budget-friendly if you navigate the costs wisely. Here’s what you need to know to keep your energy and budget intact while soaking in the festivities.
  • Festival Tickets: Entry to Tsagaan Sar is generally free, but you might want to budget for special events or performances. Expect to pay around €10-€30 ($10-$35) for any organized activities or cultural shows that enhance your experience.
  • Accommodation: Options range from basic guesthouses to more comfortable hotels. Prices can vary widely. Budget travelers can find dormitory beds for about €10-€15 ($10-$18) per night, while private rooms in guesthouses typically cost €20-€40 ($22-$45). Book early; places fill up fast during the festival.
  • Local Transport: Getting around can be straightforward. Public transport is cheap, with bus fares around €0.30-€1 ($0.30-$1.20). If you opt for taxis, expect to pay €2-€5 ($2.50-$6) for short rides. For a more immersive experience, consider renting a bicycle for about €5-€10 ($5-$12) a day.
  • Food & Drinks: Traditional meals are a highlight. Street food is affordable, with prices around €2-€5 ($2.50-$6) for a filling meal. Dining in a restaurant can cost €5-€15 ($6-$18) depending on the place. Don’t forget to budget for drinks; local beer is about €1-€2 ($1.20-$2.50) each.
  • Miscellaneous Expenses: This includes souvenirs, tips, and any unexpected costs. Set aside around €20-€50 ($22-$60) for these extras. It’s wise to have a little cushion for spontaneous experiences or last-minute purchases.

Planning ahead will help you avoid the pitfalls and keep your focus on enjoying the festival. Embrace the challenge of navigating costs, and you’ll find the rewards are worth every euro or dollar spent.
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🍲 FoodWhat to Eat & Drink

At **Tsagaan Sar**, the Lunar New Year in Mongolia, food is a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Expect to see **buuz**, those delightful steamed dumplings filled with meat, steaming away at festival stalls. Don’t miss **khuushuur**, the fried version, crispy on the outside and juicy within. Both are best enjoyed hot, straight from the hands of the vendor.

**Milk tea** is the drink of choice, a creamy blend that warms you up and pairs perfectly with the savory bites. For something sweeter, try **airag**, fermented mare’s milk, which has a tangy kick that’s an acquired taste but worth the adventure.

Etiquette is key here. Sharing is a must; if someone offers you food, accept it graciously. Lines can get long, so be patient and ready to engage with locals. Cash is king, as many … read more 👉
At **Tsagaan Sar**, the Lunar New Year in Mongolia, food is a vibrant celebration of culture and community. Expect to see **buuz**, those delightful steamed dumplings filled with meat, steaming away at festival stalls. Don’t miss **khuushuur**, the fried version, crispy on the outside and juicy within. Both are best enjoyed hot, straight from the hands of the vendor.

**Milk tea** is the drink of choice, a creamy blend that warms you up and pairs perfectly with the savory bites. For something sweeter, try **airag**, fermented mare’s milk, which has a tangy kick that’s an acquired taste but worth the adventure.

Etiquette is key here. Sharing is a must; if someone offers you food, accept it graciously. Lines can get long, so be patient and ready to engage with locals. Cash is king, as many stalls won’t accept cards. Serving sizes can be generous, so pace yourself—there’s plenty to enjoy! This festival isn’t just about the food; it’s about the connections you make over shared meals.

Other Mongolian festivals near Tsagaan Sar

Explore more nearby:

  • Naadam—wrestling, horse racing, archery| 1 km away
  • Danshig Naadam—Buddhist rituals, wrestling, Ulaanbaatar gathering| 30 km away
  • Nomad Games—horseback archery, nomadic sports, steppe contests| 36 km away

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We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

Tsagaan Sar is a vibrant explosion of culture, where you’ll dive into the heart of Mongolian traditions. The warmth of family gatherings and the rich flavors of festive dishes are unforgettable. But brace yourself: travel logistics can be tricky. Accommodations fill up fast, and prices can skyrocket. Plan ahead to keep your energy and budget intact for the real magic of the festival.

✈️ When did I visit Mongolia?
As part of my 1.5 year travel around the world trip, I visited Mongolia in July 2015. After a month of horse-riding and hitch-hiking I took the TransMongolia express to China.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Mongolia, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



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Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

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