Duration: one day or more
Kupkari (also known as Buzkashi or Ulak) is a traditional equestrian sport played by brave, strong, agile, and highly resilient men. It is widely practiced among the peoples of Central Asia and is considered one of the most spectacular traditional games. Attendance is completely free for spectators.
In Uzbekistan, Kupkari is held during the cooler months, from November through the second half of March. Most often, the game is organized to celebrate holidays, weddings, festive occasions, and other joyful events.
The number of riders varies from game to game. Each participant competes to seize the goat carcass and deliver it to a designated scoring area determined by the referee.
Participation requires specially trained horses, primarily of the local Karabair breed, as well as riders capable of enduring intense physical exertion. The number of participants can vary widely, but typically ranges from 50 to 200 or more riders.
Winners receive a variety of prizes. Modest rewards may include a bundle of traditional flatbread and sweets, along with a cash prize. However, substantial rewards are also common, including large sums of money, cars, and even apartments.
The duration of the game is not strictly regulated and may last anywhere from 5 to 8 hours or even longer.
The competition is overseen by a chief referee, who is positioned above the field in an improvised control area and announces the rules and conditions of each round via microphone. On the field, a ground referee and assistants monitor the action, recording any violations or confirming fair play.
One of the most striking moments is the intense struggle around the goat carcass lying on the ground. The riders form a rotating circle, tightly pressing their horses together in order to create an opening through which a rider can lean down and lift the carcass.
To an outside observer, the game may appear harsh toward animals. In reality, the horses are highly valued and carefully cared for. Preparing a horse for Kupkari requires extensive training and proper nutrition. Annual maintenance costs for a single horse may reach approximately USD 10,000. The horses participating in Kupkari are typically between 6 and 20 years old, and their market value in Uzbekistan can reach up to USD 500,000.
The true essence of Kupkari can only be understood by witnessing it in person. The game has not yet been affected by globalization: it is not sponsored by major sports brands, contains no commercial advertising, and lacks the corruption often associated with modern professional sports. At least five hours of thrilling action guarantee vivid emotions and unforgettable impressions.
This experience is offered as an optional addition to a main tour that includes visits to Samarkand and other cities of Uzbekistan. It also pairs perfectly with excursions to non-touristic regions of the country. Pricing is discussed individually.
🌟 Attention! 🌟
All photographs on this page are my original work and were taken during excursions. Unauthorized use or reproduction of these images is not permitted.
