Oymyakon

Oymyakon is a rural locality of roughly 500 people in the Oymyakonsky District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), widely recognised as the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth. In January 1933, a temperature of −67.7°C was recorded at the nearby village of Tomtor, and Oymyakon regularly experiences winter temperatures below −50°C. The settlement sits in the Indigirka River valley at approximately 750 metres elevation, surrounded by the Verkhoyansk and Chersky mountain ranges.

Oymyakon's name derives from the Even word meaning "unfrozen water," referring to a nearby hot spring that remains ice-free even in the depths of winter. The village was first settled by Even reindeer herders and later became a stop on the winter road connecting Yakutsk to Magadan via the Kolyma Highway.

For travellers, Oymyakon is the ultimate cold-weather destination. The "Pole of Cold" monument, the extreme winter festivals, and the sheer challenge of surviving temperatures that can kill exposed skin in minutes draw adventurous visitors from around the world. The village is reachable only by winter road or air, making any visit a genuine expedition.

By road

The primary access is via the winter road from Yakutsk (roughly 920 km), passable from November to March. The journey takes 2–3 days by truck or 4WD vehicle. A monument at Tomtor marks the "Pole of Cold" site.

By air

The Tymten airfield (near Tomtor) receives occasional flights from Yakutsk, primarily charter services during the winter festival season.

Oymyakon and the nearby village of Tomtor are tiny — everything is within walking distance. Vehicles are used for excursions to the Pole of Cold monument and surrounding areas.

The "Pole of Cold" monument at Tomtor marks the site of the −67.7°C record. The hot spring that gives the village its name is a geological curiosity. The winter landscape — frozen rivers, snow-covered taiga, and the stark mountain backdrop — is itself the main attraction. The Oymyakon winter festival (late January) features outdoor activities, traditional Even reindeer-herding demonstrations, and communal meals at extreme temperatures.

Activities and experiences include guided tours, outdoor excursions, and seasonal events specific to this destination. Local outfitters can arrange tailored experiences based on the time of year and visitor interests.

A small guesthouse or homestay may provide meals. Dining options are minimal — bring food supplies.

Tea and hot beverages are available. Bring supplies for the journey.

A small guesthouse or homestay in Oymyakon or Tomtor provides basic accommodation. Capacity is very limited — book well in advance, especially during the winter festival.

Provisions are available at a small village store. Visitors should bring most supplies from Yakutsk — selection is extremely limited.

From Oymyakon, travellers can continue to Verkhoyansk (roughly 600 km northwest by winter road) for a combined "Pole of Cold" circuit, or return to Yakutsk the same way. In summer, access is by air only.