The Shahsavan begintheir migration southward to Mount Sabalan (15,816 ft.) approximately 45 daysafter the spring equinox. The weather determines the exact timing of departure.The nomads usually spend three to four weeks covering the 150 miles between thewinter and summer quarters. For the migration, several camps form a caravanconsisting of 30-60 tents. A recognized leader organizes the migration ofdifferent groups in accordance with the movement of other sections of thetribe. Daily migration starts soon after midnight and continues until midday,when sun and heat prevent further travel. The flocks begin to move severalhours before the caravan of camels and other pack animals. Camels transport thewomen, children, lambs, chickens, the wooden frame of the tent, and thecolorfully woven luggage containers. The men ride horses or walk. By latemorning, the caravans catch up with the flocks. Several men ride ahead tolocate appropriate pastures and a camping site where the tribe will settle forthe night. A day’s travel covers between six and ten miles.Pack animals are unloadedupon arrival. The dome-shaped tents take only 45 minutes to set up. A circularcrown is held up by a man, while 24 to 32 bent wooden rods are inserted intoit; the frame stands like a giant spider. To give the tent lateral strength,woolen bands are wrapped around the frame, and a large wooden peg is driveninto the ground under the crown to tie the tent down. Once assembled, the frameis covered by several sheets of thick felt, ketcha, which are tied to the frameand the ground. A lighter tent is set up by shepherds or families who do nothave a larger one. Everyone is involved in setting up camp. Afterward women fetchwater, prepare food, and shortly after sunset everyone goes to sleep.
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