Pole of Cold Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and travel tips for a memorable trip to Pole of Cold in Yakutia, Russia.


Introduction to Pole of Cold

Located in Yakutia, in the Russian Far East, Pole of Cold is known for being one of the coldest inhabited places on Earth. This small village has become a popular destination for adventurous travelers seeking to experience extreme temperatures and unique cultural and natural attractions.

In this ultimate guide to Pole of Cold, we will take a close look at the top places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, and travel tips to help you plan your trip to this unique destination.

List of Places to Visit in Pole of Cold

There are many interesting places to explore in Pole of Cold, including culturally important museums and historical landmarks, as well as natural attractions and outdoor adventures. Here are some of our top recommendations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Local Lore. This museum provides an overview of the history and culture of Yakutia and the Pole of Cold. You can learn about the local way of life, traditional clothing and handicrafts, and the region’s flora and fauna.

  • Sakha Heritage Center. This cultural center is a great place to learn about Yakut traditions, including music, folk tales, and traditional games.

  • Leninsky District Open-Air Museum. This museum showcases traditional houses and buildings of the Yakut people and provides a glimpse into their daily lives.

Natural Attractions of Pole of Cold: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oymyakon River. This river flows through the village and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The beautiful scenery makes it a great place for photography as well.

  • The Pole of Cold Monument. Located in the town square, this monument marks the spot where the lowest temperature in the Northern Hemisphere was recorded in 1933.

  • Magadan National Park. Just a few hours from Pole of Cold, this park features stunning mountain scenery, beautiful lakes, and wildlife sightings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pole of Cold

Pole of Cold is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. There are many scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and surrounding landscape. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Oymyakon to Tomtor hike. This 120 km trail takes you through the heart of Yakutia. You’ll pass through small villages, forests, and along the banks of the Lena River.

  • Chyskhan to Chochur-Muran hike. This hike takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Yakutia. You’ll see mountains, rivers, and valleys along the way.

  • Mountain biking in Magadan National Park. This park offers some challenging terrain for mountain biking enthusiasts. The trails range from easy to difficult, with stunning views at every turn.

Best Things to Do in Pole of Cold: Activities and Tours

There are many fun activities and tours available in Pole of Cold. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Conference with a Yakut Shaman. This is a unique experience where you can learn about the Yakut culture, traditional beliefs, and shamanic practices.

  • Ice Fishing. This is a popular winter activity in Pole of Cold. You can fish for various species of fish in the icy waters of the Oymyakon River.

  • Northern Lights Tour. If you visit Pole of Cold during the winter months, you have a good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights. There are several guided tours available that take you to the best viewing locations.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pole of Cold

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Pole of Cold:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Yakutsk and explore the city
Day 2 Visit the Museum of Local Lore and Sakha Heritage Center
Day 3 Take a day trip to Magadan National Park
Day 4 Go on a hiking or biking trip in the surrounding mountains
Day 5 Take a Northern Lights tour
Day 6 Visit the Leninsky District Open-Air Museum
Day 7 Depart Yakutsk

Food and Drink Scene of Pole of Cold

The cuisine of Yakutia is unique and reflects the local culture and harsh climate. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stroganina. This is a thin slice of frozen raw fish or meat, often eaten with salt and onion.

  • Kumis. This is a traditional Yakut drink made of fermented mare’s milk. It has a slightly sour taste and is said to have healing properties.

  • Oymyakon Ice Cream. Made with natural ingredients and cold as ice, this ice cream is a local delicacy.

Local Beverages

  • Yakut Wine. Made from berries and fruits grown in the region, Yakut wine is known for its slightly sour taste and fermented aroma.

  • Chaga Tea. This is a tea made from the Chaga mushroom, which is said to have many health benefits.

Where to Stay in Pole of Cold: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Pole of Cold. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Pole of Cold Hotel. This hotel is located in the heart of the village and offers comfortable rooms and modern amenities.

  • Tomtor Guesthouse. This guesthouse is a great option for budget travelers. It has basic rooms and a communal kitchen.

  • Gora Oymyakon Hostel. This hostel is located in the surrounding mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

What to Buy in Pole of Cold: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the top souvenirs and local products to bring home from Pole of Cold:

  • Yakut Handicrafts. You can find traditional handicrafts, such as embroidered clothing and hats, at local markets and shops.

  • Local Honey. Yakut honey is said to be some of the best in the world, due to the pure and unpolluted environment.

Local Culture and Customs of Pole of Cold

The Yakut people have a rich cultural heritage, and their way of life has been shaped by the harsh climate of Yakutia. It is important to be respectful of their customs and traditions when visiting Pole of Cold. Here are some key customs and traditions:

  • Clothing. The Yakut people wear traditional clothing made of animal skins and furs to protect themselves from the cold.

  • Shamanism. Shamanism is an important part of Yakut culture, and many people still practice it today. Respectful inquiries about their practices are welcome.

Best Time to Visit Pole of Cold

The best time to visit Pole of Cold is during the winter months (December to February) when temperatures can reach -60° C. This is when you have the best chance of seeing the Northern Lights and experiencing the true extreme climate of the area.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pole of Cold

Here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Pole of Cold:

Do:

  • Dress appropriately. Make sure to bring warm clothing and gear suitable for extreme temperatures.

  • Respect the local culture. Be mindful of local customs and traditions and try to learn about them.

Don’t:

  • Freedive in the Oymyakon River. This can be extremely dangerous as the water is freezing and can cause hypothermia within minutes.

  • Disrespect local culture. It is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs when visiting Pole of Cold.

Safety and Health

It is important to take necessary safety precautions and consider your health when visiting Pole of Cold.

Safety in Pole of Cold

  • Be aware of the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Dress appropriately and avoid prolonged exposure to low temperatures.

  • Be cautious when driving. Roads can be icy and slippery during the winter months.

Health in Pole of Cold

  • Drink plenty of water. The dry, cold climate can be dehydrating, so make sure to stay hydrated.

  • Be aware of altitude sickness. Pole of Cold is located at a high elevation, and some people may experience symptoms of altitude sickness.

Getting to Pole of Cold: Transportation Options and Logistics

Pole of Cold can be accessed by air or road. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Pole of Cold

  • Yakutsk Airport. This is the closest airport to Pole of Cold, approximately 160 kilometers away.

  • Oymyakon Airport. A small airport is available in the village of Oymyakon. However, flights are not operated on a regular basis.

Bus Stations Near Pole of Cold

  • Yakutsk Bus Station. There are several buses that run between Yakutsk and Oymyakon daily.

  • Magadan Bus Station. Buses run from Magadan to Yakutsk and vice versa regularly.

Other Options

  • Private transfer. Private transfers are available from Yakutsk to Pole of Cold. The journey takes around 7-8 hours.

How to Get Around in Pole of Cold

Pole of Cold is a small village, and walking is the best way to get around. Taxi services are also available for longer distances and day trips.

Where to Go Next from Pole of Cold: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore, here are some nearby destinations and excursions you may want to consider:

  • Magadan. This city is known for its history as a former Soviet Gulag and has many interesting museums and landmarks.

  • Khandyga. This small town is located on the famous Kolyma Highway and is a popular stopover for travelers heading to Yakutsk.

  • The Verkhoyansk Range. This mountain range offers some of the most scenic landscapes in Yakutia and is a popular destination for hiking and trekking.

Conclusion

Pole of Cold is a unique and fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the extreme climate, culture, and traditions of Yakutia. With this ultimate guide, you are well-equipped to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this extraordinary place. Make sure to pack warm clothing, a sense of adventure, and a thirst for learning about this incredible corner of the world.