Deep in the heart of Siberia, where winter dominates for most of the year, lies the remote village of Oymyakon. This small settlement in eastern Russia holds the record as the coldest inhabited place on Earth, with an astonishingly low temperature of -71.7°C (-96.1°F) recorded in 1933. Despite its extreme climate, Oymyakon is home to around 450 resilient people who have adapted to life in one of the harshest environments on the planet.
A Land of Unforgiving Cold
Oymyakon sits in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia), a vast and sparsely populated region of Russia known for its brutal winters. The village’s name, ironically, means “water that doesn’t freeze,” a reference to the nearby thermal springs that provide warmth in an otherwise frozen landscape. However, everything else in Oymyakon succumbs to the relentless cold—cars must be kept running continuously in winter, metal becomes brittle, and exposed skin can freeze in mere minutes.
Colder Than Antarctica?
While Antarctica holds the record for the coldest temperature ever recorded on Earth (-128.6°F or -89.2°C at Vostok Station), Oymyakon’s claim to fame is being the coldest place where humans permanently reside. Unlike Antarctic research stations, which are only occupied seasonally, the people of Oymyakon endure these brutal conditions year-round, making their survival even more remarkable.
Daily Life in an Icy Wilderness
Adapting to such extreme temperatures requires ingenuity and resilience. Traditional wooden houses are built with extra insulation, and heating is provided by coal and wood-burning stoves. Pipes and plumbing systems are virtually non-existent because water freezes instantly, so locals rely on outhouses rather than indoor plumbing.
Diet also plays a crucial role in survival. The permafrost-covered land makes agriculture impossible, so the people of Oymyakon rely heavily on a meat-based diet. Reindeer, horse meat, and frozen fish such as “stroganina” (thinly sliced frozen raw fish) are staples. Dairy products, particularly from reindeer and horses, also form an essential part of their nutrition.
Endurance and Tradition
The people of Oymyakon have preserved their traditional way of life despite modern advancements. Many are engaged in reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting. Winter clothing consists of fur-lined coats, thick boots, and multiple layers of clothing to combat the bone-chilling temperatures.
A Tourist Destination for the Bold
Surprisingly, Oymyakon has become a destination for extreme travelers who seek to experience the cold firsthand. Adventurous visitors brave the frigid air to witness frozen landscapes, take photos next to the famous “Pole of Cold” monument, and even try throwing boiling water into the air to see it freeze instantly.
A Testament to Human Resilience
Oymyakon is more than just a cold village—it is a testament to human endurance and adaptation. The people who call this icy wilderness home have mastered the art of survival, proving that even in the harshest conditions, life finds a way to thrive.
