THE POLAR URALS ARE THE NORTHERNMOST PART OF THE URAL MOUNTAINS, WHICH MARK THE BORDER BETWEEN EUROPE AND ASIA. IN WINTER, THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE OF THE YAMAL PENINSULA, THE NENETS, RELOCATE HERE FROM THE TUNDRA FOR THE FORESTS, WHICH PROVIDE PLENTY OF FIREWOOD. IT IS ALSO EASIER FOR THE REINDEER TO FEED ON MOUNTAIN SLOPES WHERE STRONG WINDS BLOW AWAY SNOW. IN ADDITION, A RAILWAY LINE RUNS NOT FAR FROM HERE AND PROVIDES ACCESS, WHEN NEEDED, TO THE NEAREST VILLAGES, WHERE THERE ARE SHOPS AND OTHER FRUITS OF CIVILIZATION.
The Nenets have very expressive and distinctive faces, which along with the national dress and diffi cult nomadic living conditions make for a unique look.
Children are always wary of strangers at first, but this quickly passes.
The lack of gadgets and internet access means children spend lots of time outdoors
Nenets winter camps are often situated in forested river valleys, although sometimes one chum (a type of temporary dwelling) may be set up in the mountains in order to keep an eye on the reindeer herd.
The Nenets never lose their composure in unexpected situations, and will even laugh at misfortune.
Panteley. Taking portraits of the Nenets is a worthy activity for photographers.
There are count- Polar Urals less interesting subjects to photograph in a Nenets camp.
The Nenets do not gather in one large camp; usually, there are many camps scattered around the area. But families pay each other visits and socialise.
The little red cheeks of Nenets children always attract attention. In fact, beneath the delicate skin on their cheeks, they have many thin capillaries.
The stove occupies the central space of the chum and is a very important feature, as it ensures survival.
The reindeer are sometimes driven to the camps for vaccinations and other necessary procedures.
The stunning Northern Lights are but one more very convincing reason to visit the Nenets in the Polar Urals.
