Uzbek national games and amusements. Tours in Uzbekistan. Travel to Uzbekistan. Holidays in Uzbekistan

The national games and amusements are an indispensable part of the Uzbek culture. From ancient times major holidays and events have been accompanied by various performances, games and competitions. Today the national games continue to live, some of them, such as the kurash wrestling and ulak-kupkari, having even been acknowledged as international sports.

Here are the basic national games and amusements in Uzbekistan.

Ulak-kupkari

Ulak-kupkari is one of the most ancient equestrian games popular among the peoples of Central Asia. From the emotional aspect this highly spectacular performance can be compared with the Spanish bullfighting. Traditionally, ulak-kupkari is held at holidays, weddings, in spring, before the opening of the farming season, and in autumn, after the harvest has been reaped. In the course of time this game has grown into a popular sport with its own rules, clubs, federations and competitions. read more...

Kurash wrestling

The Uzbek kurash is one of the most ancient types of traditional wrestling in the world and, probably, the most popular amusement in Uzbekistan. There is no holiday in Uzbekistan that goes without kurash. This sport does not require a special ground or a gymnasium. In the former times people were wrestling on the ground, sometimes covered with carpets. The rules are simple and democratic. Kurash is acceptable to both the young and the old. Holidays often feature wrestling with the participation of grey-bearded old men. read more...

Sheep fighting

Since ancient times the sheep fighting has been an important part of the Uzbek traditions. There has been no holiday that went without this spectacle. The sheep fighting is an attractive and excitable performance. The spectators boom, whistle and stamp their feet encouraging the contestants. read more...

Cock fighting

Cock fighting is no less popular than sheep fighting, sometimes being even more excitable. Cocks of a special breed, specially trained for the dangerous contest, are used in the fighting. Perhaps, this is why the cock is considered by people as the boldest and proudest bird. read more...