A Khazak practices for buzkashi in the sunset light
The Khazak eagle hunters of western Mongolia are very proud
Here a family shows off their eagles and traditional costume with father on our right
A large y shaped stick tied to the saddle helps support the arm with the heavy eagle
It's hard to show how close the eagle human relationship is in photographs
But you can imagine the damage the eagle could do at this close distance if he was not your friend. Few of trainers remove the hood unless immediately planning for the bird to fly
One look at the eagle preparing to land after flight and the size of the claws makes it clear why the hunters wear such large thick gloves
Buzkashi is a difficult sport in which the rider at full speed attempts to pickup objects from the ground -- traditionally a goat carcass
They practice constantly wherever there are young men and horses in Mongolia
Traditional Khazak clothing on display in the museum in Olgii
They play a unique two stringed instrument that resembles a violin or cello depending on its size, though this was obviously meant only for show
The country side in Western Mongolia is quite attractive
High mountains with snow and wandering rivers of runoff
Flowers were all over in the spring time
These carvings date back hundreds of years and can be found in various places along the rivers and streams of Western Mongolia
The fancy traditional costumes were quite attractive on these young women
In contrast not quite the same can be said for this traditional shaman in her costume
Many fearsome objects were gathered on her totem
And it required some drinking and smoking before we were able to talk to the gods through her voice
No frequent flier program
Exquisite costumes were the norm in the dance shows
Interestingly each show included a contortionist act
I bet you can't do that
A drummer in traditional costume with his band
Naadam is a holiday with multiple regional contests of which wrestling is the most famous
Archery is also included
Everyone was happy to get fancily dressed for pageantry
It seemed every group was out to be part of the show
They all seemed very excited to put on the traditional outfits
Horse racing was the other big event with jockeys starting at age 5 and old by 12
Even for second place the competition was fierce
Fathers with their children were a common site on foot and on horseback
These two were enjoying the show on foot
Many others watched from horseback
The older generation remains proud of of their soviet era medals
The Erdene Zuu Monastery is a large complex built on the site of the original capital
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