The Nauryz festival is indeed celebrated by the Kazakh community in western Mongolia, particularly in the Bayan-Ölgii Province. The festival marks the arrival of spring and is a significant cultural event for the Kazakh people.

During the Nauryz festival, you can expect to witness a variety of traditional Kazakh customs and festivities. Here are some highlights of the celebration:

  1. Traditional Games and Sports: The festival typically includes various traditional games and sports competitions, such as horse racing, archery, and traditional Kazakh wrestling. It’s an excellent opportunity to observe the skill and athleticism of the local athletes.
  2. Cultural Performances: You can enjoy vibrant Kazakh music and dance performances, including the traditional “kobyz” (a two-stringed musical instrument) and eagle hunting demonstrations. These performances showcase the unique cultural heritage of the Kazakh people.
  3. Festive Food: Nauryz is a time for feasting and enjoying traditional Kazakh cuisine. You can sample delicious dishes like “beshbarmak” (boiled meat with pasta), “kuyrdak” (fried organ meat), and “baursak” (fried dough). Sharing a meal with the local community is an excellent way to experience their hospitality and traditions.
  4. Traditional Clothing and Crafts: The festival is an opportunity to admire the vibrant traditional clothing worn by the Kazakh people, adorned with intricate embroidery and patterns. You may also find local artisans selling handmade crafts, such as textiles, carpets, and jewelry.

To experience the Nauryz festival in western Mongolia, you can plan your trip to coincide with the festival dates, which usually occur around March 21st. During this time, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, as the festival attracts both local and international visitors.

I hope this information helps you plan your visit to experience the Nauryz festival in the western Mongolian Kazakh community. If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!