A Guide to the World Nomad Games
Updated January 2026 (originally published December 2024)
The World Nomad Games, often called the “Nomad Olympics,” celebrate Central Asia’s nomadic heritage through traditional sports, cultural displays, and intellectual games. Expect thrilling equestrian events, wrestling variations, archery, and falconry—rooted in ancient steppe traditions.
Having attended the 2018 games in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan, and the 2024 edition in Astana, Kazakhstan, this guide covers key sports and what to expect for the upcoming event.
Next World Nomad Games: 2026 in Kyrgyzstan
- Dates: August 31 – September 6, 2026
- Locations: Opening ceremony in Bishkek; main competitions and closing in the Issyk-Kul region (likely Cholpon-Ata area, birthplace of the games).
- Official Site: worldnomadgames.org (tickets and details coming soon).
Previous hosts: Kyrgyzstan (2014, 2016, 2018), Turkey (2022), Kazakhstan (2024).
Tickets & Planning
Tickets go on sale via the official site closer to the event (phased release). Popular events like Kok Boru finals sell out fast. Kyrgyzstan is visa-free for many nationalities; base in Bishkek or near Issyk-Kul.
Key Sports at the World Nomad Games
Horse Sports (the heart of the games)
- Kok Boru / Kok Par / Buzkashi: Teams on horseback fight to place a goat carcass (or dummy) in the opponent’s goal—intense and chaotic!
- Horseback Wrestling (Audaryspak / Er Enish): Riders grapple to unseat opponents.
- Horseback Archery: Shoot targets at full gallop.
- Baige: Long-distance horse races.
- Tenge Ilu: Pick up coins from the ground while galloping.
Games of Strength
- Various wrestling styles: Kurash, Alysh, Qazaq Kuresi, Koresh (belt wrestling).
- Mas-Wrestling (stick pull), Tug of War, Strong Nomad (feats like carrying heavy stones).
Games of Skill
- Kusbegilik: Hunting demos with golden eagles, hawks, falcons.
- Traditional Archery, Ordo (knock over bones), Asyk Atu (knucklebones game).
Games of Strategy
- Board games: Togyzkumalak, Mangala, Oware.
Beyond sports: Ethno-villages with yurts, crafts, music, and food.
The 2026 games return home to Kyrgyzstan—expect stunning Issyk-Kul scenery and massive crowds. Questions? Comment below!