Top 10 Coldest Places on Earth

Are you an offbeat traveller looking to explore uncommon destinations? Then, consider visiting some of the coldest places in the world mentioned in this post. Not all travellers like typical tourist destinations that are wildly popular among the masses. Instead, some travellers like to discover extreme places, experiment with their travel plans, and want to test their physical limits. 

If you're a traveller searching for a "path less travelled by", how about going on a quest to discover the 10 coldest places on Earth? As the winter season begins, we bring you places where you can experience the extremely cold climate.

Drass, India

Location: Drass, Ladakh, India

Minimum Temperature: -30°C (-22°F) 

Drass is situated at an altitude of 3,300 metres in the union territory of Ladakh’s Kargil district. The town lies between Zoji La pass and Kargil city on NH 1. It is the coldest place in India, where the average temperature can go down to -23 °C during the winter season. The area is located closer to the Line of Control and has seen one of the biggest military actions in the 1999 Kargil war. Since then, many former war zones, such as the Tiger Hill, Tololing, and Drass War Memorial, have become tourist attractions.  

Top Attractions: Drass is surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountains, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and pristine valleys. The Drass War Memorial, dedicated to the soldiers of the 1999 Kargil War, is a poignant reminder of the region’s history and is a must-visit for those travelling through this coldest place in India. The town is also known for its serene beauty and the breathtaking Zojila Pass, which connects Kashmir to Ladakh.

Unique Experiences: Visitors to Drass can experience the unique culture of Ladakh, with opportunities to interact with the warm and hospitable locals who have adapted to life in one of the coldest places in the world. Trekking in the nearby Suru Valley and exploring the ancient monasteries in the region are popular activities. The serene environment, combined with the crisp mountain air, makes Drass a peaceful yet adventurous destination.

Where to Stay: While travelling to Drass, we recommend stopping by Club Mahindra Driftwood Ladakh Resort, which can act as a base for you to travel ahead. Stay at Driftwood Ladakh Resort for an authentic Ladakhi experience combined with comfort, offering stunning Himalayan views and easy access to top attractions like Shey Palace and Pangong Lake. Enjoy a unique blend of traditional decor and modern amenities, perfect for a memorable stay in Ladakh. Driftwood Ladakh Resort has amazing reviews by Club Mahindra members.

Drass is 140 km away from Srinagar, the closest major city. So, you can first arrive at Srinagar and check into Kashmir House Boats Resorts, a Club Mahindra affiliate property nestled in the heart of the famous Dal Lake. Explore Srinagar and its nearby areas. Once you're acclimatised to the cold weather, continue your journey forward to Drass.

Travel Tips:

• Acclimate to the Altitude: Drass is located at a high altitude, so take time to acclimate before engaging in strenuous activities.
• Dress in Layers: The cold in Drass can be intense, so wear thermal layers and windproof clothing to stay warm.
• Plan for Road Conditions: The roads leading to Drass can be treacherous during winter, so check road conditions and travel with experienced drivers.

Yakutsk, Russia

Location: Yakutsk, Siberia, Russia

Minimum Temperature: -40°C (-40°F)

Russia is the coldest country in the world. This may surprise many as the vast country has a humid continental climate. However, most of northwest Russia and the inner regions of Siberia, which are closer to the Arctic Circle, face extremely severe winters. 

Yakutsk, the capital of the Sakha Republic in Russia, is one of the coldest cities in the world, with an annual average temperature of −8.0 °C and a record low of −64.4 °C. The city is located in continuous permafrost, meaning the ground here remains below 0 °C. 

Top Attractions: Yakutsk’s wintery landscapes are breathtaking, with snow-covered streets and ice formations creating a magical setting. The Lena Pillars, a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Lena River, offer stunning views, making it a must-see for those visiting the coldest city on earth. The Mammoth Museum and the Kingdom of Permafrost provide deep insights into the region’s prehistoric and icy wonders.

Unique Experiences: In Yakutsk, visitors can explore the city’s rich cultural heritage through its museums and festivals. The Cold Pole Festival celebrates the coldest city on earth with ice sculpting competitions and traditional performances. For a true Siberian experience, travellers can enjoy dog sledging or relax in a Siberian banya (sauna) after a day in the cold.

Travel Tips: 

• Dress in Layers: Invest in high-quality thermal clothing and layer up to stay warm in Yakutsk’s extreme cold.
• Hydrate and Moisturize: The cold, dry air can dehydrate your skin, so keep hydrated and use a good moisturizer.
• Plan Indoor Activities: Balance outdoor excursions with indoor experiences, like visiting museums and enjoying local cuisine, to stay comfortable.

Kuusamo: A Winter Wonderland in Finland

Location: Kuusamo, Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland

Minimum Temperature: -40°C (-40°F)

Kuusamo is a small town and municipality in Finland bordering Russia. The area can be one of the coldest places in the world, with the coldest recorded temperature being -48 °C. The average annual temperature here remains close to −37 °C. Besides, the ground here remains snow-covered for 200 days a year, making it one of the snowiest areas in Finland. 

Top Attractions: Kuusamo is surrounded by beautiful wilderness, including the famous Oulanka National Park, which offers breathtaking views of snow-covered forests and frozen rivers. As one of the coldest places in the world, Kuusamo's Oulanka National Park is a haven for winter enthusiasts, with the Karhunkierros Trail, one of Finland’s most popular hiking routes, transformed into a winter wonderland during the colder months. 

Unique Experiences: In Kuusamo, one of the coldest places in the world, visitors can enjoy a wide range of winter activities, from skiing and snowboarding at Ruka to snowshoeing and ice fishing in the surrounding wilderness. Known as a prime destination for experiencing the coldest temperatures, Kuusamo also offers reindeer and husky safaris, providing a unique way to explore the Arctic landscape. For those seeking a quieter experience in this coldest town, the peaceful winter scenery is perfect for photography or simply relaxing in one of the many cosy cabins available for rent.

Where to Stay: If you are a Club Mahindra member, the Club Mahindra membership includes Holiday Club Kuusamon Tropiikki, which can be a great place to stay if you’re in Kuusamo looking for some eclectic recreation and excitement. Try hiking, downhill skiing, ice karting, and snowmobile safaris during your stay here.

Travel Tips: 

• Book Accommodations Early: Kuusamo is a popular winter destination, so book your lodging well in advance, especially during the peak ski season.
• Stay Warm with Sauna Visits: The Finnish sauna is an essential part of the local culture and a perfect way to warm up after a day in the cold.
• Check the Weather: Winter conditions can be harsh, so monitor the weather and plan your activities accordingly.

Snag, Canada

Location: Snag, Yukon, Canada

Minimum Temperature: -63°C (-81°F)

Canada is typically known to be a preferred destination for higher studies. However, the country is also known for its extremely cold winters. Snag is a small village situated at a distance of 25 km from Beaver Creek, Yukon, Canada. The village has long and extremely cold winter seasons, making it one of the coldest places on Earth. 

The place recorded -63°C on February 3, 1947, the lowest temperature ever recorded in North America. Inhabitants here usually stay indoors during the winter season to avoid getting frostbite.

Top Attractions: The surrounding Yukon landscape is breathtaking, with vast, snow-covered plains and rugged mountain ranges. The area is rich in natural beauty, offering visitors a chance to witness the untouched wilderness of Canada’s far north. While Snag itself is largely deserted, nearby attractions include Kluane National Park, known for its towering glaciers and diverse wildlife, making it one of the coldest places in the world where nature is truly raw and powerful.

Unique Experiences: Travelers to the Yukon can experience dog sledging, snowmobiling, and ice fishing, all of which provide a true taste of life in one of the coldest places in the world. The region is also a prime location for viewing the Northern Lights, with the long, dark winters offering optimal conditions for this spectacular natural display.

Travel Tips: 

• Prepare for Extreme Cold: The temperatures in Snag can be dangerously low, so ensure you have appropriate winter gear, including insulated clothing and face protection.
• Travel with a Guide: The remote location and extreme weather make it advisable to travel with an experienced guide familiar with the area.
• Respect the Environment: The Yukon is a pristine wilderness; follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.

Rovaniemi: The Coldest Town in Lapland

Location: Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland  

Minimum Temperature: -30°C (-22°F)

Rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland, is often regarded as the coldest town in the world that offers accessible tourism. Located right on the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi provides an authentic Arctic experience, with winter temperatures dropping as low as -30 degrees Celsius. This charming town is easily accessible and offers a well-developed infrastructure for tourists seeking a unique winter experience in one of the coldest places in the world.

Top Attractions: Rovaniemi is surrounded by picturesque snowy landscapes, including Ounasvaara Hill and the Arctic Circle Hiking Area, where snow-covered forests and frozen lakes create a winter wonderland. As the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi attracts visitors to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet Santa and cross the Arctic Circle.

Unique Experiences: Rovaniemi offers a range of winter activities, such as husky sledging, reindeer sleigh rides, and snowmobiling through the Arctic wilderness. Visitors can also explore the Arktikum Museum, which provides insights into Arctic culture and history, or relax by the fire in a cosy log cabin after a day in one of the oldest towns in the world.

Where to Stay: With the Club Mahindra membership, you can stay at the wonderful Holiday Club Salla, Finland. Stay at Holiday Club Salla Resort in Finland for a peaceful retreat surrounded by untouched nature, offering activities like skiing and Northern Lights viewing for an unforgettable experience in one of the coldest places in the world.

Travel Tips: 

• Book Activities in Advance: Popular winter activities like husky safaris and Northern Lights tours can fill up quickly, so book early.
• Stay Active: Engage in winter sports to stay warm and fully enjoy the Arctic environment.
• Keep an Eye on the Weather: Weather conditions can change rapidly in Lapland, so be prepared for sudden drops in temperature.

Jökulsárlón: The Coldest Glacial Lagoon in Iceland

Location: Jökulsárlón, Iceland

Minimum Temperature: -20°C (-4°F)

Jökulsárlón, Iceland’s most famous glacial lagoon, offers a mesmerizing experience of icy beauty. Though not the coldest place on earth, Jökulsárlón still ranks as one of the coldest places in the world that is easily accessible to tourists. Winter temperatures here can drop to -20 degrees Celsius, making it a true Arctic experience.

Top Attractions: The lagoon is renowned for its floating icebergs, which range in colour from bright blue to ghostly white, creating a surreal and picturesque scene. Jökulsárlón is surrounded by Vatnajökull National Park, home to Europe’s largest glacier, offering incredible views of ice-capped mountains and expansive glaciers.

Unique Experiences: Tourists can take boat tours through the lagoon, navigating around the icebergs and getting up close to the stunning ice formations. Winter visitors may even spot seals lounging on the ice. Jökulsárlón is also one of the best places in Iceland to witness the Northern Lights, offering a magical experience over one of the coldest places on the planet.

Travel Tips: 

• Choose the Right Gear: Wear waterproof and windproof clothing to protect against the icy winds and cold temperatures near the lagoon.
• Take a Guided Tour: Expert guides can enhance your experience by providing insights into the geology and history of the area.
• Plan for Daylight: Winter days are short in Iceland, so plan your activities to make the most of the available daylight.

Norilsk: The Remote Arctic City

Location: Norilsk, Krasnoyarsk Krai, Russia  

Minimum Temperature: -30°C (-22°F)

Norilsk, one of the coldest places in the world, is located above the Arctic Circle in Russia. This industrial city experiences extreme cold, with temperatures often dropping to -30 degrees Celsius. Despite its remote location, Norilsk is accessible by air, making it one of the coldest cities on earth that tourists can visit.

Top Attractions: Norilsk’s surrounding landscapes are rugged and awe-inspiring, with vast tundra and the towering Putorana Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Arctic Museum in the city offers a glimpse into life in one of the coldest places in the world, focusing on the history and culture of the region.

Unique Experiences: Travelers to Norilsk can explore the stark beauty of the Arctic tundra through guided tours, which include snowmobile safaris and ice fishing. The Northern Lights are also visible here, providing a spectacular display in the dark winter skies.

Travel Tips: 

• Prepare for Polar Nights: The lack of daylight during winter can be challenging, so plan indoor activities and ensure you have appropriate lighting in your accommodation.
• Stay Connected: The remote location can make communication difficult, so ensure you have a reliable way to stay in touch.
• Respect Local Customs: Norilsk has a unique culture shaped by its isolation; understanding local customs can enhance your experience in this coldest city on earth.

Barrow (Utqiaġvik): The Northernmost City in the United States

Location: Utqiaġvik (formerly Barrow), Alaska, USA  

Minimum Temperature: -30°C (-22°F)

Utqiaġvik, also known as Barrow, is the northernmost city in the United States, located in Alaska. This Arctic city experiences some of the lowest temperatures in the world today, with winter temperatures frequently dropping to -30 degrees Celsius. Utqiaġvik is accessible by air, making it one of the coldest towns in the world that adventurous travellers can explore.

Top Attractions: Utqiaġvik offers vast stretches of ice and snow, with the Arctic Ocean's icy shores creating a stark yet beautiful landscape. The Inupiat Heritage Center provides a deep insight into the indigenous culture, making Utqiaġvik one of the most culturally rich, coldest places in the world.

Unique Experiences: In Utqiaġvik, visitors can witness the polar night, a period when the sun does not rise for over two months. In summer, the midnight sun offers 24-hour daylight. Wildlife enthusiasts can also observe polar bears and other Arctic animals in their natural habitat, adding to the unique experiences in one of the coldest towns in the world.

Travel Tips: 

• Dress for the Arctic: Ensure you have high-quality winter gear, including insulated boots and windproof jackets, to protect against the bitter cold.
• Be Respectful of Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and follow local guidelines.
• Embrace the Darkness: The polar night can be disorienting, so bring activities or hobbies to keep yourself engaged.

Exploring Harbin: The Ice City of China

Location: Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, China  

Minimum Temperature: -25°C (-13°F)

Harbin, the “Ice City” of China, is renowned for its harsh winters and incredible ice and snow festivals. As one of the coldest cities on earth, Harbin offers a winter wonderland experience, with temperatures often dropping to -25 degrees Celsius. The city is accessible by train and air, making it one of the coldest places in the world to visit.

Top Attractions: Harbin’s winter landscape is dominated by the Harbin Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival, where enormous ice castles and sculptures create a dazzling winter scene. The city’s Russian-inspired architecture adds a unique charm, making it one of the coldest places in the world with a rich cultural backdrop.

Unique Experiences: The Harbin Ice and Snow World is the highlight, featuring ice slides, snow sculptures, and live performances. The Siberian Tiger Park is another attraction, home to endangered Siberian tigers. St. Sophia Cathedral offers a glimpse into Harbin’s history, blending Eastern and Western architectural styles.

Travel Tips: 

• Plan Your Visit During the Festival: The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival typically runs from January to February, so time your visit accordingly.
• Stay Warm with Local Delicacies: Harbin’s street food, like hot pot and roasted sweet potatoes, is perfect for staying warm while exploring the icy attractions.
• Protect Your Camera Gear: The extreme cold can drain batteries quickly, so bring extra batteries and keep them warm in your pockets.

Exploring Sapporo: The Winter Capital of Japan

Location: Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan  

Minimum Temperature: -15°C (5°F)

Sapporo, located on Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido, is a popular winter destination known for its snow festivals and excellent skiing. With temperatures often dropping to -15 degrees Celsius, Sapporo is one of the coldest places in the world that combines urban convenience with winter sports.

Top Attractions: Sapporo is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and forests, creating a picturesque setting for winter activities. The city’s annual Sapporo Snow Festival features massive snow and ice sculptures, drawing visitors from around the globe. The historic Sapporo Clock Tower and the beautiful Hokkaido Shrine are also must-see attractions.

Unique Experiences: Sapporo offers various winter activities, including skiing at nearby resorts like Niseko, which is famous for its powder snow. Visitors can also enjoy a soak in the hot springs (onsen) after a day on the slopes. The Sapporo Snow Festival is a highlight, featuring stunning sculptures and a lively atmosphere, making it one of the most vibrant, coldest places in the world to visit.

Travel Tips: 

• Book Accommodations Early: The Snow Festival attracts many visitors, so book your hotel well in advance.
• Experience Onsen Culture: After a day in the snow, unwind in a traditional Japanese onsen to soothe your muscles and warm up.
• Explore Beyond the Festival: Don’t miss out on Sapporo’s other attractions, including the Sapporo Beer Museum and Maruyama Park.

Conclusion

Exploring the coldest places in the world offers a unique travel experience that few other destinations can match. From the icy streets of Yakutsk to the wintery wonderland of Sapporo, these coldest places on the planet provide unforgettable adventures for those willing to embrace the chill. Whether you’re marvelling at ice sculptures in Harbin, chasing the Northern Lights in Norilsk, or soaking in an onsen in Sapporo, these destinations offer a diverse range of experiences.

Inspired by these adventures? Consider planning your next journey with Club Mahindra, where a top-notch stay meets adventure, and extraordinary journeys await. Get a Club Mahindra membership as soon as possible and get set to create fun-filled memories with your family. Club Mahindra membership not only allows you to choose your plan based on your holiday time, but you can also upgrade your plan when your needs change because of your family. Why wait? Read our member reviews and get on with a club Mahindra membership as soon as possible to explore the world with your family.