Astana, Kazakhstan becomes cultural tourism hub with world nomad games showcasing unique sports and nomadic traditions

Astana: The World Nomad Games, an event celebrating the traditional sports and culture of nomadic communities, were held in Kazakhstan’s capital, Astana, bringing thousands of spectators and athletes from across the globe.

This year’s Games featured thrilling competitions like kokpar — a polo-like game using a goat carcass — and showcased other nomadic skills, including horseback archery, eagle hunting, wrestling, and falconry.

Astana, a city known for its futuristic architecture and vast open spaces, provided a striking contrast to the ancient traditions on display. Visitors gathered to experience the cultural revival of Central Asia, which was nearly erased during the Soviet era when nomadic lifestyles were repressed. The event’s aim is to keep these ancient traditions alive while fostering cultural exchange among nations.

One of the most anticipated events was kokpar, where Kazakhstan’s national team dominated against competitors, including a U.S. team made up of cowboys from Wyoming. American team captain Ladd Howell compared the sport to rodeo, saying, “Horses are an international language, uniting us all.”

Beyond the sports, visitors indulged in traditional Kazakh foods, including kumis (fermented mare’s milk) and skewered meats cooked over open fires. The Games provided a full cultural immersion, from ancient storytelling to the grandeur of the opening ceremonies, which included 2,500 athletes from 89 countries.

The Games offered a platform for Central Asian countries to strengthen ties and share their rich cultural heritage with the world. Astana’s wide streets and iconic skyline served as the backdrop for this vibrant celebration of nomadic life, with teams from countries like Kyrgyzstan, Turkey, and Uzbekistan participating alongside Kazakhstan.

The World Nomad Games were not only a celebration of sports but also a reminder of Kazakhstan’s deep historical roots. Visitors left Astana with a renewed appreciation for Central Asian culture, and many, like journalist Autumn Phillips, added Kazakhstan to their “Still To Do” travel list, vowing to return and explore more of the country’s vast landscapes and cultural offerings.