A yurt is a portable, round tent traditionally used by nomads in the steppes of Central Asia. Modern yurts are often used for camping, glamping (glamorous camping), or as eco-friendly living spaces. They are valued for their durability, energy efficiency, and unique aesthetic. Building or staying in a yurt offers an opportunity to learn about sustainable living, traditional nomadic cultures, and alternative housing solutions.
Benefits
- Cultural Appreciation: Increases understanding and appreciation of nomadic cultures and traditional living methods.
- Environmental Awareness: Promotes awareness of sustainable and eco-friendly living practices.
- Practical Skills: Develops skills in construction, design, and living off the grid.
- Community and Solitude: Yurts can foster a sense of community in yurt camps or provide a peaceful retreat for individuals.
Resources
- Websites: Yurt Info (yurtinfo.org) – Provides comprehensive information on yurt construction, living, and history.
- YouTube Channels: Living Big In A Tiny House – Features episodes on yurt living and construction.
- Books: “Yurts: Living in the Round” by Becky Kemery (available on Amazon) – Offers insights into yurt construction, living, and design.
- Documentaries: “The Last Yurt” on Vimeo – Explores the life of one of the last traditional yurt makers in Mongolia.
Best Age to Start
While all ages can enjoy staying in a yurt, the construction and detailed understanding of yurt living are more suited for teenagers and adults, typically ages 15 and up, due to the complexity and skills required.
Equipment and Materials
- Yurt Kit: Includes the frame, cover, and often the door and windows. Cost: $4,000-$20,000, depending on size and materials.
- Foundation Materials: Depending on the site and permanence. Cost: $500-$5,000.
- Interior Furnishings: Eco-friendly or traditional furnishings vary widely in cost.
- Monthly Cost: Varies based on maintenance and location but generally low due to the sustainable nature of yurts.
- Membership Fees: No standard fees, but workshops or courses on yurt building may have associated costs.
Starting Tips
- Research different yurt manufacturers and styles to find one that suits your needs and values.
- Consider attending a workshop or course on yurt construction or sustainable living.
- If building a yurt, carefully plan the site, foundation, and assembly process.
- Explore ways to live sustainably within your yurt, such as using solar power and composting toilets.
Mastery Requirements
- Comprehensive understanding of yurt design, construction, and maintenance.
- Experience living in a yurt through all seasons, adapting to various climate conditions.
- Ability to teach or guide others in building or transitioning to yurt living.
Famous People Known for Yurt Living
- Becky Kemery: An author and advocate for yurt living, providing resources and information to the yurt community.
- Traditional Nomadic Peoples of Central Asia: Although not “famous” in the Western sense, these cultures have mastered yurt living over centuries, maintaining traditions and sustainable practices.
Mastering yurt living involves not only the physical setup and maintenance of the structure but also embracing a lifestyle that respects and integrates with the natural environment. Engaging with the yurt community, sharing experiences, and continually exploring sustainable practices can enrich the experience of living in a yurt.