Let’s rewind to an ancient time when yurts were the literal home sweet home for Mongolian nomads. Think vast, sweeping grasslands, towering mountains, and—just for fun—imagine Genghis Khan hanging out in one.
Yurts, or ger as the Mongolians call them, are more than just a fancy glamping tent. They’re the product of centuries of adaptation to one of the harshest climates on Earth. These little wonders have withstood everything nature throws at them while keeping their inhabitants cozy, safe, and dry.
While yurt is the more widely known term, “ger” literally means “home” in Mongolian, which gives you an idea of how essential these structures have been to nomadic life. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating history, design, and cultural significance of yurts.
Yurt Origin and History
Where did the yurt originate?
Yurts, also known as “gers,” are nearly 3,000 years old and were initially utilized by Central Asian nomads. The first accounts of yurts date back to the sixth century, when Turkic nomads introduced the trellis-walled yurt to the region.
The Khitan and Uyghur tribes were early adopters, and their yurts developed into increasingly ornate styles. Yurts’ adaptation to Central Asia’s harsh weather made them essential for tribes travelling with their herds.
The Mongol Empire’s Influence & Yurt Wagons
The Mongol Empire, in the 13th century, was instrumental in expanding the usage of yurts throughout Asia and Europe. Genghis Khan’s armies were always on the move, therefore they used collapsible yurts, which were often mounted on carts for ease of transport.
Yurts, especially during the height of the Mongol Empire, were not only portable by hand but also mounted on large carts, known as “yurt wagons” or “ger tergen.” These mobile homes used between 13th and 16th centuries were particularly important for Mongol chieftains and khans, as they required larger, more elaborate yurts that could be transported over long distances without disassembly. Some yurt wagons were so enormous that they needed up to 22 oxen to move them across the steppe. The carts themselves were strong, having large wheels and axles that were frequently compared to the size of ship masts.
These transportable yurts enabled the Mongols to preserve their way of life even during military campaigns or diplomatic missions. William of Rubruck, a 13th-century explorer, vividly described these carts, mentioning that Möngke Khan’s wife was taken home in one after a gathering.
The capacity to pack up their dwellings and travel seamlessly across large expanses was an important part of the Mongol military strategy, allowing them to quickly shift entire villages, including administrative centers, at a moment’s notice. The Mongols also used these wagons for ceremonial purposes, displaying their wealth and authority through the scale and ornamentation of their mobile houses.
The combination of yurts and wheeled carts exemplifies how practicality and status intersected in the nomadic society, providing both mobility and comfort.
Traditional Yurt Design
A traditional yurt’s structure is made up of a collapsible wooden frame called khana (trellis walls), rafters, and a central crown (tono) at the top that serves as a smoke hole and a source of light. The conical roof distributes weight evenly over the structure, ensuring stability in heavy winds.
The frame is wrapped in sheep’s wool felt, which provides great insulation in both summer and winter. The entire design is tiny and highly portable, which is ideal for nomads who constantly set up and deconstruct their houses.
Historically, yurts were constructed from natural materials—wood for the structure and felt made from animal wool for insulation. This made them sustainable and well-suited to a nomadic lifestyle. Modern yurts have been upgraded using materials such as synthetic insulation, PVC covers, and metal frames, making them more robust and weather-resistant.
These modern variants are currently employed in a variety of situations, ranging from ecotourism to domestic areas, and keep the traditional form while using updated materials.
Yurt’s Cultural Significance
In Mongolia, yurts are more than just dwellings; they represent a way of life. These mobile homes have been integral to Mongolian culture for millennia. They represent the connection between people and land, allowing nomads to live sustainably in hostile regions. Even today, more than half of Mongolia’s population lives in yurts, primarily in rural areas.
The real magic of the yurt lies in its shape. It’s a perfect circle. The yurt’s spherical design is associated with Mongolian spiritual beliefs, representing eternity and the sky, both of which are important in Mongolian customs and religious practices.
Traditionally, in Mongolian homes, there’s no hierarchy of rooms like we have in modern houses. The entrance of the yurt always faces south, and the north side is reserved for the family’s altar and special guests.
Genghis Khan probably held meetings in a yurt, plotting the future while comfortably nestled in one of these beauties. Just imagine—your guests could do the same (minus the conquering part, of course). They could be relaxing in the exact type of home that sheltered some of history’s greatest figures. Talk about bragging rights!
Spread to Other Nomadic Tribes and Regions
The Mongol Empire’s tremendous expansion in the 13th century helped spread the usage of yurts throughout Central Asia, reaching places as far west as Russia. Tribes such as the Kyrgyz, Kazakhs, and Khitans adapted yurt-like constructions, incorporating them into their own nomadic lives.
This effect was noted by travellers such as Giovanni di Pian del Carpine in 1246 and Marco Polo in the late 13th century. As a result, yurts became icons of nomadic survival across Central Asia’s steppes, deserts, and mountains, among other places.
The Journey to the Modern Yurt
Okay, so how did we go from Mongolian nomads to modern-day glamping?
In the 1960s, a man named Bill Coperthwaite discovered the yurt while studying traditional Mongolian structures and decided to bring the concept to the United States. With a few modern updates, like adding windows and using different materials for the frame and cover, he revolutionized the design while staying true to its roots. Yurts became popular in the hippie culture of the ’70s—because let’s face it, who wouldn’t love living in a space so connected to nature?
Fast forward to today, and you’ve got manufacturers like The Out Factory (hey, that’s us!) taking this timeless design and turning it into something you can customize to fit your resort’s aesthetic, vibe, and guest expectations. Whether it’s a rustic getaway or a luxurious, eco-friendly escape, yurts bring an immersive, unforgettable experience to the table.
The Glamping Trend – Why Should You Care?
Here’s where it gets interesting for you, my dear Glamping Yurt owners. Yurts aren’t just a cool piece of history—they’re a trend. The glamping boom is real, and travellers are looking for something more than just a place to sleep. They want an experience, a connection to nature without losing the comfort and luxury they’re used to.
And that’s where yurts come in–
- Unique Experience: Imagine your guests waking up in a round, cozy, wooden structure, listening to the sounds of nature around them, without sacrificing the comforts of a high-end hotel. That’s a memory that sticks with them, and they’ll tell everyone about it.
- Sustainability: Yurts are naturally eco-friendly. Built with sustainable materials and often requiring fewer resources than traditional accommodations, they’re a great way to offer a green alternative to concrete buildings. They blend into the landscape rather than disrupting it.
- Customization: At The Out Factory, we’re all about making your dreams a reality. Want a yurt with a skylight to stargaze at night? Done! Want one with a rustic, timber-framed feel or a modern, sleek design? We got you! Our team of timber-tinkering experts lives for these challenges.
- Versatility: Yurts aren’t just for one purpose—they’re multi-functional. Use them as accommodations, restaurants, wellness retreats, or even an event space. The options are endless, and each one offers that wow factor your guests are looking for.
The Out Factory Touch
You see, at The Out Factory, we’re not just in the business of making yurts—we’re in the business of creating unbelievable outdoor experiences. And that’s why we are sharing this Mongolian tale with you today. Whether you’re looking to create a tranquil nature retreat or a lively glamping hotspot, yurts are the perfect way to bring a unique touch to your resort. And it’s not just about functionality. Our team is obsessed with design and customization.
Whether you’re looking for a few cozy yurts to add to your property or want to design a full-scale glamping experience with a unique, sustainable touch, we’re ready to bring your ideas to life.
Wrapping It All Up
Yurts are more than just a temporary shelter—they’re a cultural symbol, a design marvel, and a fantastic way to offer something different at your resort. And at The Out Factory, we’re here to make sure that whatever you dream up, we can build it.
FAQs
Traditional Mongolian yurts, or gers, are made with a wooden frame and felt insulation, designed to withstand harsh climates and be easily portable for nomadic lifestyles. Modern yurts maintain the same structural design but often use advanced materials like canvas, weatherproof fabrics, and modern insulation for added comfort. They also include features like windows, skylights, and sometimes even electricity and plumbing, making them perfect for glamping and resort accommodations.
