Darkhad tribe

The Darkhad people live in the northern regions of Khovsgol province, specifically in the areas around Ulaan Taiga, the Sayan Mountains, and Lake Khovsgol, which include the Rinchinlhumbe, Tsagaannuur, Ulaan-Uul, and Bayanzurkh soums. They live in the forested taiga, hunt game, reside in yurts, herd reindeer, and raise yaks for their livelihood. Darkhad is a unique ethnic group in Mongolia that has preserved the traditional customs and practices of shamanism.

The Darkhad people migrate and live in the Shishged Basin during the summer and move 200-300 kilometers north and south during the winter to areas such as Agar, Beltes, Altarga, and Moron. In Mongolia, although monasteries and temples were established and the Gelug school of Buddhism gained strength, the Darkhad people, who lived in remote regions, preserved their shamanistic practices. The Darkhad speak Mongolian but with a unique dialect that includes many ancient Mongolian words. They are known for their sense of humor and are famous for composing humorous songs for their guests. These songs have short, catchy tunes with witty and eloquent lyrics. There are about 700 Darkhad songs, which are said to be infused with the natural beauty of the Khuvsgul Mountains and the Shishged Basin.