Oymyakon
,Oymyakon is a remote village in Siberia, Russia, known for being one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. It holds the record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in a permanently inhabited settlement, reaching as low as -67.7 degrees Celsius (-89.9 degrees Fahrenheit). Oymyakon has a harsh climate with extremely long and frigid winters, making it challenging for residents to survive.
Despite the harsh conditions, Oymyakon has a small population that relies on traditional ways of life and is known for its unique winter festivals and culture.
- "Zdravstvuyte" - Hello
- "Spasibo" - Thank you
- "Pozhaluysta" - Please
- "Da" - Yes
- "Net" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Oymyakon Adventure 1
morning
:Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring traditional Russian cuisine to fuel your energy for the cold. After breakfast, explore the village to get a sense of local life in one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth.
afternoon
:Visit the local museum to learn about the history of Oymyakon and its inhabitants. After the museum, take a guided tour into the surrounding frozen wilderness to appreciate the stunning icy landscapes.
evening
:Enjoy a warm dinner at a local eatery sharing stories with fellow travelers. Experience the breathtaking view of the night sky, as Oymyakon offers a chance to see the Northern Lights.
Oymyakon Explorations 2
morning
:Rise early to embrace the beautiful icy scenery with a stroll around the village. Capture picturesque moments while enjoying the crisp, fresh air.
afternoon
:Engage in snowshoeing or cross-country skiing along designated trails to immerse yourself in the winter wonderland. Take breaks to appreciate the quiet beauty of nature surrounding you.
evening
:Settle in for a cozy dinner in a traditional Siberian yurt. Let the warmth of the fire soothe you as you reflect on the day’s adventures with new friends.
Highlights
Good
- Home to one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth, attracting adventurous travelers and researchers.
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Sakha people, providing unique experiences for visitors.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including vast taiga forests and picturesque winter scenery.
- Opportunities for winter sports and activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.
Bad
- Extreme cold temperatures, which can be dangerous and limit outdoor activities during winter months.
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities, posing challenges for residents and visitors.
- Isolated location, making travel and transportation difficult and time-consuming.
- Economic challenges related to reliance on traditional industries and limited job opportunities.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Winter Camping
Experience the extreme cold of Oymyakon by setting up camp in the wilderness. It's a unique way to witness the stunning desolate landscapes and starry nights.
Dog Sledding
Enjoy a thrilling ride through the snowy terrain on a dog sled. This traditional mode of transport provides a fun and adventurous way to explore the area.
Ice Fishing
Try your hand at ice fishing on one of the frozen rivers or lakes. It's a popular local activity that allows you to experience the region’s rich fishing culture.
Photography Tours
Join a photography tour to capture the breathtaking winter landscapes and vibrant wildlife. The region is known for its unique beauty, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Snowmobile Adventures
Rent a snowmobile and explore the scenic views of Oymyakon and its surroundings at high speed. It's an exhilarating way to cover more ground in the winter wilderness.
Cultural Tours
Engage with the local Yakut culture by visiting indigenous communities. Learn about their traditions, lifestyles, and the history of this cold region.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Oymyakon with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Oymyakon Village
The village itself is known for its extreme cold and unique lifestyle. Capturing the rustic wooden houses against the snowy landscape can create stunning photos.
Frozen River Indigirka
The Indigirka River, often frozen during the winter, offers magnificent views. Photographers can capture the contrast of the blue ice against the white snow.
Mount Chornaia
Nearby Mount Chornaia provides panoramic views of the surrounding area. A hike to the summit rewards photographers with breathtaking landscapes.
Oymyakon Cold Pole Monument
A monument commemorating Oymyakon as one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. It's a great spot for a photo showcasing the extreme climate of the area.
Sunset Over the Taiga
The vast taiga forests surrounding Oymyakon offer stunning sunset views, with the low sun casting long shadows and creating vibrant colors in the sky.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Stroganina
Thinly sliced frozen raw fish or meat, a traditional delicacy usually made from local fish such as Arctic cisco or whitefish. Can be found at local eateries and traditional gatherings.
Must-Try!
Reindeer Meat
A staple in the region, reindeer meat is often stewed, roasted, or made into sausages. It can be enjoyed at local restaurants and markets like the Oymyakon Central Market.
Sour Fish Soup
A warming soup made from fish, potatoes, and herbs, often consumed during the cold winters. Best sampled at traditional eateries and local homes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oymyakon better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Oymyakon Central Market
A great place to experience the local food scene, offering fresh produce, meat, and local specialties such as dried fish and reindeer products. Visitors can also find street food vendors selling traditional snacks like smoked fish and meat pies.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress Appropriately for the Weather
Oymyakon experiences extreme cold temperatures, so it's crucial to dress warmly in layers. Wearing appropriate clothing not only keeps you comfortable but also shows respect for the local environment and its conditions.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
Understanding and showing appreciation for local customs, such as traditional greetings and practices, is essential. Engage politely with the locals and be open to learning about their ways of life.
Be Mindful of Personal Space
In Oymyakon, as in many rural places, personal space may be different than what you are used to. Be observant of how locals interact and maintain a respectful distance during conversations.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oymyakon with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Oymyakon, tipping practices are not as prevalent as in many Western countries. However, it is appreciated in the hospitality industry, particularly in restaurants and hotels. A tip of 10% of the bill is considered generous, but it is not mandatory. Visitors should be mindful that service charges might already be included in the bill.
Payment
Payment practices in Oymyakon primarily involve cash, as credit cards may not be widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. Rubles are the local currency, and it is advisable for visitors to carry sufficient cash for transactions. In some cases, payment can be made via mobile apps, but this is less common in remote areas.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oymyakon.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter
Oymyakon experiences extreme cold during winter, with temperatures often dropping below -40°C (-40°F). This season attracts visitors interested in winter sports and the unique experience of one of the coldest inhabited places on earth. Expect beautiful snow-covered landscapes and opportunities to see the Northern Lights.
Spring
Spring in Oymyakon is brief and can still be chilly, with temperatures gradually rising from -20°C (-4°F) in March to around 10°C (50°F) by May. This season offers a chance to see the melting snow and feel the warming sun, along with the beautiful transition of nature. Wildlife starts to emerge, and it's a good time for photography.
Summer
Summer is the warmest season in Oymyakon, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F) in July. Days are long, offering nearly 24 hours of daylight. It’s a great time for hiking, fishing, and experiencing the local culture. The natural beauty of the region is most vibrant during this time, with lush greenery and wildflowers.
Autumn
Autumn sees temperatures slowly drop, ranging from 10°C (50°F) in September to -20°C (-4°F) by November. The foliage puts on a stunning display of colors, making it a picturesque time for visitors. However, be prepared for the cold weather as the season progresses, and the first snows may arrive by late October.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Oymyakon Valley
A scenic valley known for its stunning landscapes and opportunities for hiking amidst the rugged terrain and vibrant flora.
Lenin Peak Base Camp
Although primarily known for climbing, the trails around the base camp offer hiking opportunities with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Kolyma Highway
A historic road that connects various parts of the region; sections of it offer hiking paths along the expansive wilderness.
Chukotka Nature Reserve
This vast reserve offers numerous trails for hiking, showcasing the unique wildlife and natural beauty of the area.
Anadyr River Trails
Hiking along the banks of the Anadyr River provides a peaceful environment with beautiful nature views and the chance to spot local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oymyakon through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Oymyakon by plane.
Yakutsk International Airport (YKS)
The largest airport in the Sakha Republic, located approximately 700 kilometers southwest of Oymyakon. It serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights.
Magan Airport (YKA)
Located near Yakutsk, approximately 700 kilometers from Oymyakon, it mainly serves domestic flights and is one of the key airports in the region.
Neryungri Airport (NER)
Located about 1200 kilometers to the southwest of Oymyakon, this airport serves the town of Neryungri and offers scheduled flights to various destinations in Russia.
Chulman Airport (ULK)
Situated around 1000 kilometers southwest of Oymyakon, near the town of Aldan, this airport primarily provides services for regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Yakuts
The main ethnic group in Oymyakon, known for their adaptation to the harsh climate and traditional lifestyle.
Russians
Settlers and migrants primarily from other regions of Russia, contributing to the local population.
Yakutian Descendants
Offspring of intermarriages between Yakuts and other ethnic groups, representing a blend of cultures.
Small Number of Other Ethnic Minorities
Includes groups such as Evenks and other indigenous peoples, but they constitute a very small portion of the population.
The Soul of Oymyakon
Discover the essence of Oymyakon through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice Hockey
A popular team sport played on ice, ice hockey is widely enjoyed in Oymyakon, especially during the long winter months when the region is covered in snow.
Skiing
Both downhill and cross-country skiing are popular winter sports in Oymyakon, taking advantage of the area's scenic landscapes and snowy terrain.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling offers an exciting way to explore the vast and wintry landscapes surrounding Oymyakon, making it a favored activity during the winter.
Traditional Winter Games
Local traditions include various winter games and competitions, which are celebrated by the community, enhancing cultural ties and sporting spirit.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While the traditional cuisine heavily features meat and fish, some restaurants and cafes in Oymyakon offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, often incorporating locally sourced produce and grains.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options like rice-based dishes, potatoes, and certain traditional soups that are naturally gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate dietary needs clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oymyakon with these cultural adventures.
