
Mongolian Traditional Toys & Games
Mongolian children and adults have enjoyed a rich variety of traditional toys and games for centuries. These games were designed not only for entertainment but also to develop intelligence, patience, strategic thinking, creativity, and physical strength. Many are still played today, especially during festivals and family gatherings.
Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys have been part of Mongolian culture since ancient times. With over 15 categories, these toys involve dismantling and reassembling complex wooden or bone structures.
Visitors can explore many of these traditional puzzles at the Mongolian Toys Museum in Ulaanbaatar.

Board Games
Mongolians historically played over 100 board games, many of which reflect nomadic life and social values.
Chess (Shatar)
Checkers (Draughts)
Dominoes
Shagai — The Ankle Bone Game
Shagai, made from sheep anklebones, is one of Mongolia’s most iconic traditional toys. Each bone has four distinct sides—horse, camel, sheep, and goat—used for games and fortune-telling.
Shagai Games Are:
Shagai games can involve:
The ankle bone is believed to be one of humanity’s earliest forms of dice.


Wooden & Rope Puzzles
Mongolian craftsmen also created:
These toys test patience and intelligence and remain popular cultural souvenirs.
Winter Games
Historically, Mongolian children played games on frozen rivers, including a sliding game similar to curling, demonstrating how nomads adapted entertainment to their environment.
A Living Tradition
From shagai and puzzles to strategy games and winter sports, Mongolian toys offer insight into:
These toys continue to be enjoyed today, preserving a playful and meaningful part of Mongolia’s heritage.




