What should you look for when buying a ger / yurt?
Are you planning to proceed with the purchase of an authentic Mongolian ger / yurt? If so, there are some important points to watch out for. At Mongolian Magic, we share what to look out for during the buying process, so you can be sure you’re choosing a durable, well-insulated and fair yurt that’s suited to the European climate.
Buying an authentic Mongolian ger / yurt is more than just buying a tent – it is an investment in culture, craftsmanship and durability. This round, portable tent – also known as a yurt – has been an essential part of nomadic life in Mongolia for centuries. Its timeless design has remained virtually unchanged and is considered one of the most iconic symbols of Mongolian culture.
A traditional Mongolian ger consists of a wooden frame of slats combined with felt walls and a canvas roof. Pegs and ropes hold the structure firmly in place. The clever design allows you to set up or take down the yurt in a matter of hours. Each authentic ger is handmade by skilled artisans, often using techniques passed down for generations.
UNESCO recognises the value of this tradition and has included the knowledge and skills surrounding the construction of yurts on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. If you are looking for an authentic Mongolian ger, you would do well to choose a yurt made by experienced Mongolian builders that stays true to its traditional design. This way, you not only get a unique form of living in your home, but also a piece of living Mongolian culture.
When buying an authentic Mongolian ger / yurt, it is important to think carefully about the right size. Authentic Mongolian gers come in various diameters and heights, depending on the purpose of use and the number of people staying in them. The size directly affects the comfort, insulation and practical layout of the interior space. Below is an overview of common sizes and what to consider when choosing the right size for your ger.
- Diameter: The diameter of a Mongolian yurt can vary from around 3 metres to as much as 12 metres. The larger the diameter, the more space there is inside the yurt. The most common diameters are 4 metres, 5 metres, 6 metres and 7 metres.
- Height: The height of a Mongolian yurt can vary from around 2.5 metres to as high as 4.5 metres. The higher the yurt, the more airy and spacious environment there is inside the yurt. The height of the yurt is important when choosing the size of the stove, as a bigger yurt needs a bigger stove to heat the space.
- Wall height: The height of the walls of a Mongolian yurt can vary from about 1.5 metres to as much as 2.5 metres. The higher the walls, the more space is available for furniture and other living space.
- Surface area: The surface area of a Mongolian yurt is determined by the diameter of the yurt. For example, a 4-metre diameter yurt has an area of about 12 square metres, while a 7-metre diameter yurt has an area of about 40 square metres.
It is important to choose the right size Mongolian ger for your needs and environment. A yurt that is too small can feel claustrophobic and not provide enough space for furniture and living space, while one that is too large can be unnecessarily expensive to heat and maintain. It is also important to choose the right size yurt for the number of people you want to fit in it and the activities you plan to do in it. Here are the dimensions of 5, 6, 7 and 8 wall yurts:
- A 5-walled yurt has a diameter of about 5-6 metres and a height of about 2-3 metres.
- A 6-walled yurt has a diameter of about 6-7 metres and a height of about 2.7-3.5 metres.
- A 7-walled yurt has a diameter of about 7-8 metres and a height of about 3-4 metres.
- An 8-walled yurt has a diameter of about 8-9 metres and a height of about 3.6-4.7 metres.
It is important to note that these dimensions are only a guide and actual dimensions may vary depending on the builder and the use of modern materials. In addition, the dimensions of yurts produced outside Mongolia may differ from traditional dimensions.
Wood is an essential building material for authentic Mongolian gers. It is found in almost every part of the yurt: from the walls and doors to windows and even the foundation. Softwoods such as pine, spruce and larch are popular choices thanks to their natural strength, flexibility and durability – properties that are especially important for the ger’s flexible walls.
When building yurts, craftsmen choose their wood carefully and process it thoroughly to extend its life. They often treat it with oils or varnishes to protect it from weather, insects and mold. The wood not only provides strength and durability, but also contributes greatly to the distinctive, authentic look of these traditional tents.
Siberian larch is considered one of the best woods for ger construction. Thanks to its high density and natural oil and resin content, this wood is particularly resistant to moisture, cold, mould and insects – ideal for the Mongolian climate. Moreover, Siberian larch hardly deforms and retains its shape, which contributes to the stability of the yurt. The warm colour and fine grain also make the wood visually appealing.
European larch is an alternative that costs less, but is also less strong. This wood species still offers possibilities for yurt construction, although it comes into its own mainly in milder climates because of its lower durability.
Pine and spruce are also commonly used. Pine is soft and easy to work with, while spruce is harder and more dense. Both are affordable and readily available, but less weather-resistant than Siberian larch. Therefore, they deserve extra protection with coatings or varnishes. Nevertheless, they remain suitable options because of their natural properties and wide availability.
In short, wood is indispensable for building a Mongolian ger. It provides strength, weather resistance and gives the yurt its authentic look. A well-considered choice of the right type of wood – tailored to the climate and the desired lifespan – is therefore essential for a durable and traditional ger.
The inner cloth, also known as the “Dotor tsawag”, of the Mongolian yurt has an important function. It is designed to regulate the interior climate of the yurt and protect its occupants from the elements. The cloth lies directly on the wooden frame and covers the walls of the yurt, creating a warm and insulated space.
The cloth is often made of lighter fabrics, such as cotton, silk or wool. This is because the cloth needs to be as light as possible to promote airflow and keep the heat inside. Wool is often used because it is naturally insulating and helps regulate the temperature inside the yurt. In addition, wool can absorb moisture and does not give off static charge.
The inner cloth also has important cultural significance. It is often decorated with traditional Mongolian patterns and symbols that reflect the rich history and culture of the Mongolian people. These patterns are not only decorative, but also have symbolic meaning and are often linked to nature and spiritual beliefs.
The outer cloth, also known as the “Gadna burees”, is an essential part of the yurt. It protects the yurt and its inhabitants from the elements and adds to the unique look of the yurt.
Gadna burees are often made of heavier materials than the inner cloth, such as canvas, polyester or polycotton. The Gadna burees can be made in different colours and patterns. Traditional colors are red, white, blue and green, representing fire, wind, water and earth. The patterns on the Gadna burees often have symbolic and cultural significance, and can vary from geometric shapes to natural and cosmic symbols.
If you want to use a Mongolian yurt in the Netherlands, it is important to impregnate the Gadna burees. This is a process in which the fabric is treated with a protective coating that makes it water-repellent. This is especially important in the Dutch climate, where rain and humid conditions can lead to mold and other problems. By impregnating the Gadna burees, it can better withstand these weather conditions and last longer. It is also possible to treat the Gadna desks with a UV protective coating to protect it from discolouration and sun damage.
The Gadna burees also has an important function in regulating the temperature inside the yurt. The material insulates the yurt and keeps heat inside, while at the same time keeping cold and wind out. This is especially important in winter, when temperatures in Mongolia can drop below -30 degrees Celsius.
In summer, the Gadna burees can be rolled up to promote airflow and keep the yurt cool. This is especially important in the warmer parts of Mongolia.
When purchasing an authentic Mongolian ger / yurt for use in the Netherlands, it is important to consider the wet and changeable climate. Unlike the dry steppes of Mongolia, where these gers were originally designed, extra protection from moisture is essential here.
A practical solution is to add a canvas or membrane under the outer fabric of the yurt. This extra layer is placed over the top of the yurt and fastened underneath, creating a waterproof barrier. This prevents rain and moisture from penetrating, thus significantly extending the life of your yurt.
In Mongolia, this modification is usually not necessary, as the traditional yurt there functions well without additional layers. But in the Dutch climate, this is a highly recommended addition when buying a Mongolian ger / yurt, especially if you leave it outside for long periods of time.
Although felt is naturally resistant to insects and animals in Mongolia, it can be a problem in the Netherlands. Insects such as moths and carpet beetles can damage the wool in the felt, reducing the yurt’s insulation value. Mice and rats can also use the felt to build their nests, causing holes and cracks.
Felt is a traditional material that has been used for centuries to make Mongolian yurts. It is a natural and durable material. It consists of several layers of wool compressed and felted into a sturdy and waterproof fabric. It also has excellent insulating properties and can regulate the temperature inside the yurt by keeping heat in in winter and providing coolness in summer.
To protect felt from insects and animals, it is important to regularly inspect the felt for signs of damage. In addition, it can help to regularly clean and ventilate the yurt to reduce moisture and dirt. Insect repellents and mouse and rat control methods can also be used to protect the yurt.
As an alternative to traditional felt, synthetic insulation materials that are more resistant to insects and rodents can also be used in the Netherlands. However, it is important to ensure that these materials are safe and comply with fire safety regulations.
- The three bands that run around the outside of a Mongolian yurt are known as “busluur”. These ties play an important role in structuring and stabilising the yurt. They ensure that the walls and other parts stay in place and prevent the yurt from being blown over. Mongolia traditionally uses natural animal hair. In the Netherlands, synthetic materials, such as polyester, are often used. This is because synthetic materials are often cheaper and more resistant to Dutch weather conditions.
- The Urgh is the cover of the roof wheel of the Mongolian yurt. In traditional yurts, the Urgh is a square patch that covered half the Toono/wheel. This served as a way to let in more light and also as a vent valve. If the yurt is pressurised, for example during a storm, the Urgh will rise to release the air and reduce the negative pressure. This sinks the yurt back onto the ground and allows it to stand safely. While traditional yurts were often made with natural materials such as animal skins or wool, modern Urghs are usually made of synthetic materials such as polyester or polycotton. This is because these materials are more durable and better able to withstand Dutch weather conditions.
When buying an authentic Mongolian ger / yurt in the Netherlands, choosing the right floor is an important step. A yurt is in direct contact with the ground, and in our humid climate that can quickly feel cold or clammy. Fortunately, there are several flooring options to choose from, depending on your budget, purpose of use and desired comfort. Consider a wood floor, an insulated subfloor or a raised deck.
Which floor best suits your yurt depends on how and where you will use it: temporarily in the garden, as a guesthouse or perhaps as a living space. In all cases, a good floor makes all the difference.
Wooden floor panels: Wooden floor panels are a popular choice because of their durability and easy-to-clean surface. These floors are suitable for different types of substrates and offer good insulation against cold ground.
Carpet: Carpet can be a soft and warm option for a yurt floor. It is comfortable to walk on and provides extra insulation against the cold. Various types of carpet are available, including synthetic and natural materials.
Mats: Mats are an affordable option for a yurt floor and offer some insulation against the cold. They are also easy to move and replace. Mats are available in different materials, such as reed, grass and bamboo.
Rubber floor tiles: Rubber floor tiles offer an easy-to-clean surface and provide insulation against the cold ground. They are durable and easy to replace if needed.
Whichever option you choose, it is important to consider how much insulation the floor offers and how easy it is to clean. You should also consider budget and aesthetic preferences when choosing the floor for your Mongolian yurt in the Netherlands.
When purchasing an authentic Mongolian ger / yurt, it is good to also consider the furnishings. After all, furnishing elements play a major role in increasing the comfort and functionality of the living space. In a traditional Mongolian ger, furniture and accessories are not only chosen aesthetically, but also cleverly placed to make the best use of the space.
Typical elements include wooden beds, storage chests, a centrally placed wood stove and colorfully painted furniture. These not only add to the atmosphere, but also provide a practical and warm living environment – something essential, especially when using the ger in the European climate.
- Wood stove: A wood stove is an essential element for a Mongolian yurt, as it provides heating and cooking. It is important to choose the right size stove for the size of the yurt and to ensure it is safely installed and maintained.
- Windows: Windows can be added to provide light and ventilation in the yurt. Windows can be made of glass, plexiglass or canvas, and can be opened or closed depending on the weather and needs.
- Flooring: To make the floor of the yurt more comfortable, a floor covering such as carpet, mats or wooden floor panels can be installed. This provides extra insulation against the cold ground and makes the living space more comfortable and homely.
- Lighting: Lighting can be added to the yurt to illuminate the living space and facilitate activities such as reading and cooking. Lighting can be provided by candles, oil lamps or electric lighting via solar panels.
- Furniture: Furniture such as beds, chairs, tables and cupboards can be added to the yurt to make the living space more comfortable and practical. Furniture can be made of wood, canvas or other material suitable for the yurt environment.
The price of an authentic Mongolian ger can vary depending on several factors, including size, quality of materials, accessories and supplier. In general, Mongolian yurts are relatively expensive because of the use of high-quality materials and the artisanal construction techniques required to make them.
Mongolian ger / yurt parts:
