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Nomadic Life in Kyrgyzstan

For most families the summer is the only season to earn money for making it through winter. The highland areas are not suited for staying during winter because of the snow. Therefore, they break up their yurts at the end of summer and move down to their poor shacks in the valley cities. In a way, Kyrgyz people may be referred to as ‘seasonal’ nomads.

Each spring, when the snow melts, the families take their yurt and other belongings again and move up the highlands. This seasonal nomadic cycle continues forever, only interrupted by occasional trips to the valley in the summer to sell cattle and stock up on goods. By spending time with Kyrgyz families, it becomes clear they value the nomadic life far above life in the cities. Summer means space, freedom and abundance.

KYRGYZSTAN | Wednesday, 9 January 2013 | Views [576] | View Smaller Image

For most families the summer is the only season to earn money for making it through winter. The highland areas are not suited for staying during winter because of the snow. Therefore, they break up their yurts at the end of summer and move down to their poor shacks in the valley cities. In a way, Kyrgyz people may be referred to as ‘seasonal’ nomads. Each spring, when the snow melts, the families take their yurt and other belongings again and move up the highlands. This seasonal nomadic cycle continues forever, only interrupted by occasional trips to the valley in the summer to sell cattle and stock up on goods. By spending time with Kyrgyz families, it becomes clear they value the nomadic life far above life in the cities. Summer means space, freedom and abundance.

Tags: nomads, kyrgyzstan, yurts

 

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