Nomadism

Mongolia is a country with pristine wilderness. Its culture untouched by Western influences has preserved its nomadic heritage and the people are known for their unfaltering hospitality and warmth. Mongols have been living the same nomadic lifestyle for centuries. With their traditional gers, which are easily taken down and moved, they herd their animals across the steppe. The nomads move about 4 times a year for fresh pasture.

Severe weather conditions have occurred in the past years, responsible for the death of thousands of livestock. This resulted in a growing number of people moving to the city. Ulaanbaatar’s population is over 1 million, out of a total population of about 3 millions. The ger, however, is not exclusive to the countryside. Outside the center of all towns are sprawling ger suburbs, where people live in gers enclosed in a yard (hashaa). In cities where there are few jobs for unskilled workers, nomad-turned-city dwellers turn to herding as their only way to make a living. Consequently you will find cows, goats and sheep freely roaming in the streets.