Tsagaan Sar or Lunar New Year

Why Visit Mongolia During Tsagaan Sar?

Visiting Mongolia during the Lunar New Year, or Tsagaan Sar, is a great way to experience local traditions and culture. This holiday marks the beginning of spring, and Mongolians often say, "After Tsagaan Sar, spring comes." It’s a time for families to gather, celebrate, and show respect to their elders. You'll see many traditional customs, such as the Zolgokh greeting, where younger people greet older family members with a special gesture of respect. The holiday is also marked by delicious foods, including buuz (steamed dumplings) and airag (fermented mare’s milk), which are shared with family and guests.

During Tsagaan Sar, Mongolian homes are beautifully decorated, and you might have the chance to try traditional clothing or take part in activities like making buuz. It’s a meaningful time when the bonds of family and tradition are celebrated, and you can learn about the significance of this holiday to the Mongolian people. Visitors are welcomed with warmth, and it’s a rare chance to see how Mongolians live and celebrate this important cultural event.

If you're considering visiting Mongolia in winter, Tsagaan Sar is actually the perfect time. While winter in Mongolia can be harsh, during Tsagaan Sar, the cold is more manageable and offers a more pleasant experience for travelers. It's the ideal time to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions without dealing with the extreme temperatures of mid-winter. If you're looking for an authentic experience, Tsagaan Sar gives you a unique glimpse into Mongolia's rich heritage

Experience Tsagaan Sar – Mongolian Lunar New Year

Tsagaan Sar, the Mongolian Lunar New Year, marks the end of a long, harsh winter and the welcoming of spring. It’s a time for family reunions, honoring elders, and introducing newborns to relatives. This celebration, known as "White Moon," is based on the lunar calendar and typically falls in January or February.

A Rich History and Deep Traditions

Tsagaan Sar dates back to the 13th century and was solidified as a national celebration after Chinggis Khan’s decree, celebrating the first month of spring when dairy is abundant and livestock begins to give birth. Originally, the festival was celebrated during autumn, known as the Dairy Festival.

Preparation for the Celebration

Preparation for Tsagaan Sar begins a month in advance. Families clean their homes, make thousands of buuz (steamed dumplings), and buy gifts to offer guests. The night before the festival, called "Bituuleh," is like Christmas Eve in Mongolia, where families ensure everything is stocked and prepared.

The Day of Tsagaan Sar

On the first day, families greet the elders with a special ceremony called zolgokh, a gesture of respect where younger people support the arms of the older generation. The day starts with offering a cup of milk tea to the gods, and homes are filled with traditional dishes, including buuz and airag (fermented mare’s milk). After meals, guests are often given small gifts as a token of appreciation.