The nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan is one of the reasons you absolutely must visit this sublime mountainous country. Kyrgyz people have always been nomads, and they have not lost their traditions. This goes far beyond herding practices, yurts, and traditional clothing. Indeed, games form an important part of Kyrgyz nomadic culture, and they are a delight to witness during a journey to Kyrgyzstan!

Nomadic games have accompanied the Kyrgyz people in the jailoos (mountain pastures) for centuries. These traditions served to enliven festivities (weddings and more), but also to train soldiers and horses during times of peace.

The most internationally renowned Kyrgyz nomadic game is kok-boru. This impressive equestrian sport, played across Central Asia under different names (buzkashi), sees two mounted teams compete to catch a goat or sheep carcass and throw it into a goal.

You will also find horse racing; wrestling, both mounted and on foot; archery; "kyz kumay," in which a man chases a woman on horseback to kiss her; and "tiyin enmei," where riders must collect money from the ground. The Kyrgyz also have several traditional board games, such as "toguz korgool," a type of mancala, or "ordo," an ossicles game.

During your journey to Kyrgyzstan, you may have the chance to observe a kok-boru match on the weekend in a village. Otherwise, you can request a demonstration of nomadic games be organized for you.

There are also major festivals and competitions where you can admire these games unique to the world. The most renowned event is the "World Nomad Games," held every two years in Kyrgyzstan since 2014. This sporting competition attracts teams from around the globe to compete in various nomadic events, traditions that have managed to survive the passage of time and modernization.