The Mongolian ger—not a “yurt,” as some might call it—is a symbol of Mongolian tradition and resilience. Ideally suited to Mongolia’s extreme climate and nomadic lifestyle, this round, portable dwelling consists of a sturdy wooden framework and insulating felt cover. While modern apartments and homes are becoming common in Ulaanbaatar, many rural Mongolians still live in gers, an essential part of their culture and daily life.
Historically, gers were non-collapsible and required transport by yak carts. Today, however, they are designed to be disassembled and packed onto animals, making relocation easy as nomads move with the seasons. Each ger has two key components: a wooden framework or lattice wall and felt cover. The frame includes the central support poles and a smoke hole or ring roof. The structure is usually set up to face south, letting sunlight into the otherwise windowless interior.
The interior layout is simple yet meaningful. Traditionally, the western side belongs to men, who store bridles, airag, and arkhi (vodka), while the eastern side is for women’s kitchen utensils and personal items. The khoimor, directly opposite the door, is a place of honor, housing valuables and often a small Buddhist shrine or family photos. Guests are often invited to sit here, as it’s the most respected area in the ger.
The ger’s circular design withstands Mongolia’s fierce winds, while the felt covering provides quick drying when wet. In Ulaanbaatar and other towns, ger districts are on the city’s outskirts, often housing residents who seek a summer escape from hot, cramped apartments to enjoy Mongolia’s open skies in their beloved gers.
