Khovsgol Ice Festival

In Mongolia, people expect March to enjoy one of the best festivals in Mongolia, which is the Ice Festival at Lake Khovsgol. Except for 250 days of sun, the remaining days are extremely cold winter months, especially March which marks the deepest winter on the Earth with temperatures regularly dropping below -35°C. However, on harsh days, the powerlessness of humans against nature is celebrated at the Khovsgol Ice Festival.

This festival is definitely a feast for the senses because it boasts many activities, such as horse-sled races, ice rally-driving, wrestling, tug-of-war matches, and dog sledding. In addition, because the ice is so solid, many people light bonfires on the frozen lake, leaving only a small puddle behind. By the lakeside is the showcase of the work of ice sculpture. The festival is also a fashion show because participants wear their own colorful, traditional costumes that represent the country’s 21 different regions or aimags where they hail from. Therefore, it is an opportunity for tourists to experience the traditions and lifestyles of Mongolian reindeer herders.

When: March
Where: Lake Khovsgol