When traveling to a different country, it is common to seek out souvenirs or gifts to remember the trip or share with loved ones. However, selecting the perfect item can be a time-consuming task. To assist you, we have compiled a list of gift ideas specifically for your visit to Mongolia.
Cashmere and Woolen Products from Mongolia
Cashmere and woolen products from Mongolia are known for their exceptional quality. Mongolia is one of the world’s largest producers of cashmere, and its harsh climate produces cashmere fibers that are longer, finer, and stronger than those from other regions. Mongolian wool is also highly regarded for its warmth and durability. Additionally, many Mongolian artisans use traditional techniques to create beautiful and unique designs in their cashmere and woolen products.
What is the difference between cashmere and woolen products?
Cashmere and woolen products are both made from animal fibers, but they come from different sources. Cashmere comes from the soft undercoat of the cashmere goat, while woolen products are made from the fleece of sheep. Cashmere is known for its luxurious feel and excellent insulation properties, while woolen products are known for their durability and ability to retain warmth even when wet.
Organic skincare products
Organic skincare products in Mongolia are gaining popularity due to the increasing demand for natural and sustainable beauty products. Some popular organic skincare products in Mongolia include Gobind Organic Skincare, Forest Beauty, Wild Earth, and Pure Earth.
These products are made from organic and plant-based ingredients, free from harmful chemicals and synthetic additives. They are known for their gentle and nourishing effects on the skin, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion. Many organic skincare brands in Mongolia focus on using locally sourced ingredients, such as Mongolian herbs and plants, to create their products. This not only supports local communities but also ensures the authenticity and effectiveness of the skincare products. Overall, the availability of organic skincare products in Mongolia provides consumers with a safer and more eco-friendly option for their skincare routine.
Mongolian Clothes
Mongolian traditional clothing is unique and reflects the country’s nomadic lifestyle and harsh climate. The most recognizable garment is the del, a long robe worn by both men and women. The del is made of wool and is designed to keep the wearer warm in cold weather. Other traditional clothing includes hats, boots, and belts decorated with intricate designs.
Silver Bowl
Silver Bowl Mongolia is located in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia.
The term “Silver Bowl” is not widely known as a specific historical reference in relation to Mongolia. However, Mongolia has a rich history of metalworking and craftsmanship. Silver has been used in various forms for centuries in Mongolia, primarily for decorative purposes and as a symbol of wealth and prestige.
Historically, the Mongolian Empire, led by Genghis Khan and his successors, had a significant impact on the region. The empire spanned from the 13th to the 14th century and was known for its military conquests, trade routes, and cultural exchange. During this time, silver objects may have been produced and used by the Mongolian nobility or for trade with neighboring regions.
It’s worth noting that Mongolia is also known for its traditional crafts, such as silver filigree, which involves intricate silverwork in jewelry and decorative items. These crafts have been passed down through generations and continue to be valued today.
Morin khuur – Horsehead Fiddle
The Morin Khuur, also known as the Horsehead Fiddle, is a traditional Mongolian bowed stringed instrument. It has two strings and is played with a bow made from horsehair. The unique feature of the instrument is its carved horsehead at the top of the neck, which gives it its name. The Morin Khuur is an important part of Mongolian culture and is often played during traditional ceremonies and festivals.
The player holds the Morin khuur vertically, with the soundbox resting on their legs or on the ground. The strings are typically made of horsehair, which gives the instrument its name. One string is tuned to a higher pitch, while the other is tuned to a lower pitch.
To play the Morin khuur, the musician places their left hand on the neck of the instrument to press down on the strings and change the pitch. The right hand holds the bow, which is drawn across the strings to produce sound. The bowing techniques can create a variety of tones, from soft and melodic to fast and rhythmic.
The Morin khuur is often used to accompany traditional Mongolian singing and dancing. It is known for its expressive and haunting sound, which is deeply rooted in Mongolian culture.
Ger – Mongolian traditional dwelling
A Ger, also known as a yurt, is a traditional dwelling in Mongolia. It is a portable, round-shaped structure made of a collapsible wooden frame covered with felt or animal skins. Gers are designed to withstand the harsh climate of Mongolia, providing insulation against cold temperatures and strong winds. The interior of a Ger typically consists of a central stove for heating and cooking, with sleeping and living areas arranged around it. Gers are still commonly used by nomadic herders in Mongolia and are also popular among tourists for a unique cultural experience.
Unique Mongolian Hats
The hat holds great significance for Mongolians, particularly men, as it is considered the most respected clothing item. It is customary for Mongolian men to place their hat and belt on higher surfaces and never on the ground or facing upwards. Historically, the hat denoted the social status of the owner and there are around 400 different styles, shapes, and types of hats that are categorized by season, ethnicity, and gender. To help you choose, we recommend trying out hats such as Toortsog, wrestler’s hat, Jonon hat – which is a great match for the traditional deel, and Loovuuz – a winter hat made of animal fur.
Leather or Kazakh embroidered bags
Leather or Kazakh embroidered bags from Mongolia are traditional bags that are crafted by skilled artisans to reflect the cultural heritage and history of the Mongolian people. These bags are made from high-quality leather or fabric and feature intricate embroidery in traditional Kazakh patterns.
What materials are used to make Leather or Kazakh embroidered bags from Mongolia?
Leather or Kazakh embroidered bags from Mongolia are typically made using a combination of materials.
For leather bags, the main material used is genuine leather. Mongolian artisans often use high-quality leather sourced from local animals such as sheep, goats, or cows. The leather is carefully treated and processed to ensure durability and a smooth finish.
In the case of Kazakh embroidered bags, the main material used is fabric. These bags are traditionally made using vibrant and colorful textiles, such as silk or cotton. The fabric is then intricately embroidered with traditional Kazakh patterns and motifs, which are known for their rich cultural significance.
To create these bags, skilled craftsmen in Mongolia combine the leather or fabric with other materials such as threads, beads, and sometimes even semi-precious stones or metal embellishments. This combination of materials adds to the beauty and uniqueness of each bag.
