As autumn arrives in Uzbekistan, one ethnic Kazakh family in the Zarafshan region is preparing to leave their summer home -- a richly decorated yurt set up next to their house. The breezy mobile shelter is a common choice to help residents escape the heat of summer. It's also a way for families to preserve the traditions of past generations who once carried their yurts with them to summer pastures. RFE/RL photographer Umida Akhmedova visited the village of Rahat earlier this year as a Kazakh family gathered to help set up their seasonal residence.
Inside An Ornate Kazakh Yurt In Uzbekistan
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Once the yurt is ready, the family sits down inside for tea with milk prepared in a samovar.
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Dulat lives in the city of Zarafshan. Many of the residents work in the gold and uranium mines nearby.
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The top of the yurt remains open to provide ventilation.
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