Mongolia Archery Workshop

Last updated 7 months ago by Jessica Brooks | Published: July 29, 2019

Mongolia Archery Workshop

Meet Tomorkhuu Batmunkh

Meet Tomorkhuu Batmunkh, a master bow and arrow maker in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. As the host of our Mongolia Archery Workshop, Batmunkh embodies the skill and dedication that has been passed down through generations. We are proud to work with him in a long-term community partnership, bringing visitors an authentic experience of Mongolian archery.

A Workshop In The Heart Of Ulaanbaatar

Batmunkh’s home in Ulaanbaatar’s Bayangol district is also his workshop. Upon entering his three-room apartment, you are immediately struck by the extent of his craftsmanship. Every surface is dedicated to the creation of traditional Mongolian bows and arrows, showcasing his passion and expertise.

From the outside, Batmunkh’s apartment resembles the typical Soviet-inspired architecture that is common in Ulaanbaatar. However, step inside, and you will find a space filled with sinews, glue, arrows, bird feathers, arrowheads, tools, and implements. It’s remarkable how much he has managed to fit into his modest home.

An EL group during one of our visits to Batmonk.

The Legacy of Mongolian Archery

Historically, Mongolian bows were vital for hunting and protecting tribes. They were also essential to the Mongol Army, which used them to build the largest contiguous land empire in history. Today, archery remains one of the Three Manly Sports celebrated during Mongolia’s Naadam Festival. The Mongolian composite bow, known for its explosive acceleration and velocity, continues to impress at these competitions. Those who have experienced the archery competition at the National Naadam in Ulaanbaatar can attest to its formidable power.

The Art of Bow Making

Crafting a bow is a meticulous process that takes about a year. Batmunkh primarily uses resilient birch wood, which is abundant in Mongolia. The wood is cut, glued, shaped, and left to dry, with most available surfaces in his apartment used for this purpose. Each bow is dated to ensure proper drying time. Other components, such as fish glue, birch bark (used to protect against moisture), horn or bone (typically ibex and used on the “belly” of the bow), sinew (stretched on the outside of the bow), feathers, and arrowheads, fill the apartment, emphasizing the complexity of the craft.

An Immersive Visitor Experience

Visitors to Batmunkh’s workshop not only witness his craftsmanship but also receive an informal history lesson on the evolution of the bow and arrow in Mongolia. Batmunkh’s enthusiasm is infectious, and his entire family is involved in the craft. Formerly a geography professor and competitive archer, Batmunkh naturally transitioned to bow making. He still competes, and as you spend time at his apartment, archers pass through—coming to talk about the purchase of a new bow or just coming to have a chat in general.

For a closer look at Batmunkh’s work and the tradition of Mongolian archery, watch this UNESCO video on Facebook (opens in new window), which features Batmunkh and other Mongolian archers.

Join Us for a Unique Experience

Our Mongolia one-day tours are private, flexible, and designed to offer an intimate glimpse into daily life in Mongolia. If you’re interested in meeting Batmunkh as part of your Mongolia experience, please let us know. You can find more information here. We also offer a horseback archery experience, which you can learn more about here.

Our Mongolia one-day tours are private, flexible, and designed to offer an intimate glimpse into daily life in Mongolia. If you’re interested in meeting Batmunkh as part of your Mongolia experience, please let us know. You can find more information here. We also offer a horseback archery experience, which you can learn more about here.

Jess @ Eternal Landscapes