We have recently arrived in Zavkhan Province, one of the westernmost regions of Mongolia, to continue our journey of documenting the life of nomads. This year marks the sixth year of our project dedicated to showcasing and preserving the unique traditions of Mongolia’s herding culture.
Over the years, our work has focused especially on the long-distance migrations carried out with yak carts — a centuries-old tradition where herders load their gers (traditional tents) and belongings onto carts pulled by yaks and move hundreds of kilometers to reach distant pastures. These migrations, known as otor, have been at the heart of nomadic survival, especially during the harsh winter months. Yet, as the modern world advances and climate change continues to reshape the environment, this ancient tradition is gradually disappearing. Ethnologists warn that when a culture begins to fade, it can vanish completely within just two decades. Sadly, many herders today are leaving behind the nomadic lifestyle and moving into settled communities.
Recognizing this urgent change, we have dedicated ourselves to capturing and preserving these traditions through photography, books, and film. Our past efforts have resulted in two published books and two television programs, all aimed at documenting the lives of herders for future generations. But our work does not stop here.
Today, we are turning our focus to one of the most important animals in Mongolia’s nomadic history: the yak. Believed to have arrived in Mongolia centuries ago from the highlands of Tibet, the yak has been essential to nomadic herding life. Strong, enduring, and perfectly suited for long journeys, yaks carry gers, provide milk, meat, and fiber, and help herders survive the extreme Mongolian winters. In fact, research has confirmed that yak down is warmer than even the finest cashmere.
Our upcoming book will bring together these stories, accompanied by photographs taken throughout all four seasons. It will highlight not only the traditional role of yaks in migration but also their economic and cultural importance. From yak carts crossing vast steppes to the production of yak down and dairy products, the book will offer a complete portrait of this extraordinary animal and its role in sustaining nomadic life.
We plan for the book to include five chapters and more than 100 pages, printed on high-quality art paper. The first edition will have 500 copies. Beyond serving as a visual and historical record, the book will also give back to the community: a portion of its proceeds will directly support herders and nomads.
Most importantly, this project is not only ours — it is a collaboration with everyone who values culture, history, and the preservation of nomadic traditions. Together, we can ensure that the knowledge and resilience of Mongolia’s nomads will not be lost to time.
Lets discover our interview
part 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Mi3eEhAWKE
part 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g86mVTWa1m0
Pre order link https://khurshop.com/products/pre-order-photo-album-sarlag