Mongolian Lunar New Year

Tsagaan Sar started as a celebration of dairy goods in the
autumn. However, in 1206, Chinggis Khaan passed a
decree to celebrate it in the first month of every spring.
In the 17th century, Tsagaan Sar was combined with
Buddhist traditions.


Since then, Tsagaan Sar has become a symbolic festival ith deep political and spiritual meaning. During the festival, people gather with their families at home and show respect to each other through a variety of rituals.

On the day of Bituun, the Eve of Tsagaan Sar, family members gather at the home of the eldest member, share traditional dishes and beverages, and play ancient games
while sharing stories.

On the morning of the first day of Tsagaan Sar, Mongolians wake up before sunrise to make milk tea and offer the first cup to the earth and sky. As soon as the sun rises, family members visit their elders and greet them by supporting the elders’ elbows in their hands, a gesture through which Mongolians express their respect to each other. Everyone then shares traditional Mongolian food and offers goodwill
to each other. Mongolians feel a cultural and spiritual bond with each other through these rituals. This is the value of Tsagaan Sar.

These two festivals, which are passed down from ancestors, are a cultural heritage that all visitors can experience while in Mongolia. These celebrations are used
by Mongolians to pass on history, tradition, and cultural heritage to the younger generation which offers a unique glimpse into a Mongolian life.