The Resurgence of Mongolian Horseback Archery
Few experiences capture the spirit of Mongolia quite like horseback archery—riding at speed across the steppe, reins released, bow drawn, and arrow flying. For centuries, this skill was essential for hunting, herding, and warfare, forging the reputation of the Mongol Army as one of the most formidable forces in history. Though it faded with the rise of firearms, the tradition has returned with fresh energy and passion. Today, horseback archery is experiencing a vibrant revival, with local associations, schools, and festivals breathing new life into the practice. In this post, we explore its resurgence, the people keeping it alive, and how you, as a traveller, can experience it for yourself.
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Rediscovering an Ancient Skill
Imagine riding at full speed across the open steppe, the wind pressing against your face, as you let go of the reins and draw back a bow. In that moment, horse and rider move as one, and a single arrow cuts the air. This is horseback archery—a skill that once defined Mongolia’s warriors and remains a powerful symbol of the country’s heritage.
For centuries, horseback archery was a way of life. It sustained families through hunting, safeguarded livestock, defended clans, and propelled the Mongol Army across Asia and Europe. The Mongolian composite bow, small but astonishingly powerful, gave warriors an edge with its explosive acceleration and speed. It was this weapon—wielded from horseback—that helped build the largest contiguous land empire in history.
Mastering it requires extraordinary control: a rider must release the reins with both hands to shoot, relying solely on horsemanship to stay balanced while aiming with precision. It is the ultimate test of skill, strength, and instinct.
A Tradition Renewed
With the rise of firearms, horseback archery gradually disappeared. Yet its spirit never fully faded. Archery itself endured, preserved as one of the Three Manly Sports of Mongolia’s Naadam festival. And now, in recent years, the art of shooting from horseback is making a vibrant comeback.
Across Mongolia, groups like the Mongolian Horseback Archery Association (МҮМХХолбоо), the ‘Khan Mongol’ Horse Riders Association, and the Namnaa Archery Academy are reviving this ancient tradition. Their work has reignited local passion and brought new energy to the steppe, with competitions such as the Spirit Mongolia Open Horseback Archery Tournament and the Khuraldai Falconry Festival.
Mongolian archers are not only rediscovering their roots but also stepping proudly onto the international stage, earning medals and recognition at global competitions.
The Diverse Disciplines of Horseback Archery
Horseback archery today is not a single style but a collection of disciplines, some centuries old and others newly introduced.
In the Korean style, for instance, archers shoot at a square target with five scoring zones, arrows held in a quiver rather than the bow hand. In contrast, the dramatic qabak discipline challenges riders to strike a target placed high atop a pole, twisting in the saddle at full gallop to send an arrow flying upwards.
Whatever the style, the sport depends on instinctive aiming. As Polish elite archer Anna Sokólska explains, “Horseback archers don’t use sights. They rely on a combination of muscle memory, hand-eye coordination, arrow trajectory, and subconscious distance calculations to the target.” It is as much about trust—in oneself, in the horse, in the arrow—as it is about skill.
A Growing Community
What makes the resurgence of Mongolian horseback archery so compelling is its inclusivity. Today, the sport draws participants from all walks of life—students, doctors, teachers, drivers—united by their love for the bow and the thrill of the ride. It is not confined to warriors of the past but is open to anyone willing to step into the saddle and take up the bow.
Experience It for Yourself
The revival of horseback archery in Mongolia isn’t only about competitions and heritage—it’s about a living tradition open to anyone with curiosity and courage. Today, Mongolian riders from every walk of life—students, teachers, doctors, drivers—are taking up the bow, united by their passion for the sport.
For travellers, it offers a chance to go beyond watching and truly take part. If you are a confident rider, comfortable around horses, ready for a medium to high level of activity, and eager for a challenge, we can arrange a professional lesson with one of Mongolia’s horseback archery academies. We have community partnerships with the different schools and talented individual teachers and would be delighted to arrange this for you. Although the skill, knowledge, and training involved mean this is not a budget option.
And for those who may not ride but are fascinated by the craft itself, we also offer archery workshops with one of Mongolia’s master bow makers. Here, you can learn the art of creating the iconic Mongolian composite bow and practice the skill of standing archery—connecting with a tradition that has shaped Mongolia for generations.
