Buy Mongolian Ger & Yurt

Traditional Mongolian Yurt

A simple and traditional Mongolian design. Traditional yurts are cheaper and portable.

Eco Design Mongolian Yurt

Not as portable as a traditional ger, but it has a better foundation and is suited for modern design.

Hand Carved Yurt

Carved yurts are similar to traditional yurts, but there are carvings on the door and inside the yurt.

History Of The Yurt

Nomadic life in Central Asia has always been closely tied to the vast steppe landscapes and the need for portable dwellings that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The yurt is an ancient dwelling of the nomadic people, with its distinctive circular shape and collapsible structure, perfectly suited for the lifestyle of the region.

The history and origin of Mongolian yurts can be traced back to Central Asian cultures and Turkic people, particularly Mongolia. These unique dwellings, also known as “ger is like a portable cabin and have played an essential role in the lives of the nomadic people of the region for centuries.

The exact origin is challenging to pinpoint, but the yurt is believed to have spread from its birthplace in Central Asia, extending from Hungary to China. It’s unclear who first introduced yurts but it’s more likely yurt houses that were made from simple materials thousands of years ago went on to derive into different designs and forms.

The Structure’s Construction

The framework of a Mongolian yurt is typically made of a lattice structure. It consists of wooden poles that form the circular shape of the yurt’s walls. These poles are carefully selected for their strength and flexibility. Traditional woods like willow, birch, or poplar are commonly used due to their availability and favorable properties.

To ensure stability and durability, the lattice poles are interwoven and held together by tension. This crisscross pattern allows the yurt to withstand various weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy snowfall. The lattice structure also provides flexibility, allowing the yurt to be dismantled, transported, and reassembled easily.

Covering it, felt, made from sheep’s wool, is the primary material used for insulation and weatherproofing. Layers of felt are carefully cut and stitched together to fit the shape of the yurt’s walls. The thickness of the felt layers depends on the climate and the specific needs of the occupants. In regions with harsh winters, thicker layers of felt are used to provide optimal insulation.

The roof of the yurt is supported by wooden roof poles, which radiate from the center of the structure to the walls. These poles provide stability and shape to the roof. At the center of the roof, a compression ring is placed, creating a central focal point and distributing the weight evenly across the structure. The compression ring is often intricately designed, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of the builders.

Other materials are used to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the yurt. A sturdy fabric, such as canvas or weather-resistant textile, is sometimes added as an outer layer to protect the felt from direct exposure to the elements. This outer layer also allows for customization, as it can be decorated or personalized according to the occupant’s preferences.

The construction of a yurt can take between 30 minutes and 3 hours, depending on the size and experience of the builders. The process involves assembling the framework, attaching the roof poles, securing the compression ring, and carefully layering and fastening the felt cover. This efficient construction process allows for easy setup and dismantling, making yurts ideal for nomadic lifestyles and temporary settlements.

Central Asian Yurts

Central Asian yurts exhibit fascinating variations in design across different cultures, showcasing diverse yurt derivations and regional preferences in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

They all have their own version of their traditional yurt and all have different names depending on the the region. The quality and craftsmanship depend on each country’s unique needs and yurts are an intangible cultural heritage for all these countries.

Even Greek historians have experienced seeing such things used by ancient nomads from over three thousand years ago.

Evolution of Modern Yurts

Over time, yurts have evolved to meet modern needs and preferences. A Modern yurt is often made with metal frames for durability and convenience. They can be found in various sizes and designs, including larger yurts that can accommodate between five and fifteen people. Yurts have also gained popularity beyond the nomadic lifestyle and are now used for recreational purposes, such as glamping and yurt camping experiences in different parts of the world.

In recent years, yurts have become increasingly accessible through various means, including yurt rentals and sales. People interested in yurts have the opportunity to customize their yurts to suit their specific needs and preferences, blending traditional elements with modern amenities.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are interested in buying a yurt and yurt living in general, here are some important questions to consider.