Tsaatan Community
One of the last remaining reindeer herders, indigenous to northern Mongolia and Siberia
Mainly in the western and northern Shore the Dukha (apart of Tuvan ethnic group aka Tsaatan literally means people with reindeer) are separated by their Tribe-brothers by the Russian border (since the 60s). Only about 44 ‘Tsaatan’ families now remain in Mongolia (18 in the eastern Taiga, “Zuun”) with their own language known as Tuvan. They spread over 10000m2 in northern Mongolia. Reaching these areas of people, who inhabit teepee-type tents is not possible without obtaining a border permit in Murun. This is only to be obtained in Murun. A guide and good planning of self-supply is highly recommended. LEAVE NO TRACE should be your premise. I.e. stay on trails, respect holy waters, avoid single use of plastic items. Do not fish or hunt without permit, gather and dispose trash properly. PLEASE: do not introduce exotic plants into the environment. Ask the locals for suitable places for your hygienic activity.
Tsaatans lifestyle is to be understood as in transition. Technology, tourism interests of scientists and visitors as well as missionaries left an impact to their lifestyle. Tourism increases, short term visitors usually do not contribute much so that it’s financial impact is basically zero. RESPECT that you are coming to someone's home and massive tourism can completely damage their lifestyle. Tsaatan community is not a zoo, if you behave in a responsible way, your stay will be rewarding and you can learn a lot from the community.
Permits to these areas can NOT be obtained in Hatgal or by the TCVC. In Murun is the official institution for issuing border permits.
Reindeer festival
The Festival is held in late June/July. The Tsaatan festival features Dhakad folk singing, marching reindeer herds, reindeer riding, reindeer polo, a bonfire festival, shamanic rituals amongst the teepees and numerous presentations about the Tsaatan people and their nomadic lifestyle.
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Do’s |
Dont’s |
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Cover your hand when presenting a gift |
Avoid short living plastic gifts |
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Right hand is good hand |
Don’t pass or accept with left hand |
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Try things that are offered |
Point with your finger or knife at people |
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Express olders with “ta” not “chee” |
Wash only where assigned |
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Try to sing when asked to |
Whistle indoors |
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Shake hands if you step on others foot |
Lie |
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Ask before taking pictures and introduce yourself |
Step over food or objects on ground |
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Offer to help by doing not just by asking |
Talk excessively in own language |
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Offer APPROPRIATE gifts |
Refuse to try food |
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Open the ortzs door from outside- right side |
Block sacred areas in the family’s home |