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25 May 2010: Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, Mongolia (48.5583, 88.3998)
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After the family left their winter camp, we drove ahead to where they would be setting up summer camp and waiting for them to arrive. It actually took us longer to drive the 40 km (27 mi) there then it did for them to set up two gers but I think they were this quick because we were helping them.
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It is always fun unpacking after a trip. Here these nomads have to separate the possessions from three different families.
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The first step in setting up a ger is to clean all the accumulated dust off the parts and then tie on your ceiling decorations.
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After the ceiling decorations are in place, it is time to erect the wall and place your front door, which should always face towards the south.
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After raising the center mount into place, each support rod needs to be inserted and tied off. Rasa is a natural sailor when it comes to knots.
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Once the supports are in place, it is time to put on the weatherproofing. This is an under layer of plastic that keeps water out.
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Then there is the insulation. In this case, it is a blanket of wool felt that makes these homes so comfortable in the cold.
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Here is the final product; a postcard perfect homestead.
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After a hard day’s work, we all relaxed inside with some tea and biscuits.
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These last two days were an amazing experience for us; so much so that we would love the opportunity to one day bring our kids back to spend the summer here with this family. Excited to move on though, we had to leave early the next morning to reach the eagle-hunter before dark.
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This is so cool.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for the comments. It really was a great experience. We’ll miss you in China.
What a wonderful experience for me to view this process of moving and setting up a Ger. The inside is so colorful and appears warm and exciting.
Hi Mom,
I’m glad you liked the inside because we have a surprise for you.
Very interesting, re: the move and set up of the ger in their summer place. Where do they get their water?
Hello Peter,
Their water source is interesting. It pretty much comes from wherever, they always boil it with fresh milk, salt and tea. It is the only thing they drink. Well, that and vodka.
Wonderful post!!
Hi Ange,
Thanks, I think it reflects the great time we had there.