Exploring the Icy Wonderlands: A Journey Through the Coldest Countries in the World

Have a Chill Time: A Guide to the Coldest Countries on Earth

There’s something about the cold that can both be invigorating and intimidating. Some of us love cozying up with blankets while sipping hot cocoa, while others want to escape to warmer climates. But there are some places on earth where you’re guaranteed to experience bone-chilling temperatures no matter what time of year it is—these are the coldest countries on earth.

The Land of Permafrost: Russia

As one of the largest countries in the world, Russia’s winters can last up to six months. The country’s northern regions, including Siberia and Yakutia, are known for their harsh winters, with temperatures dropping below -50°C (-58°F).

However, it’s not all bad news for those brave enough to venture into this winter wonderland. Imagine trekking through frozen tundra or enjoying a hot cup of Russian tea in front of a roaring fireplace.

Russian winters might be cold, but they’re also beautiful. From the colorful domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow peeking out from under a blanket of snow to Lake Baikal transforming into a frozen fairytale land, there’s no shortage of sights worth seeing.

The Great White North: Canada

When most people think about Canada, they picture vast wildernesses blanketed in snow, polar bears wandering around ice floes, and people playing hockey on frozen lakes. While these stereotypes might not always hold true across the entire country, it can get extremely cold in many parts, especially during the winter months. In fact, Canada is home to some of the coldest inhabited places on earth, like Snag (the lowest recorded temperature was -63°C/-81°F) and Winnipeg (known for its winters dipping below -35°C/-31°F).

But this doesn’t mean you should avoid Canada altogether. In fact, winter sports enthusiasts will find themselves in heaven with world-class skiing and snowboarding options in places like Whistler, Banff, and Quebec City.

Ice and Snow Everywhere: Greenland

Greenland is the world’s largest island, but it’s also one of the coldest places on earth. With an average temperature of only -10°C (14°F), it should come as no surprise that most of the country is covered in ice sheets.

But don’t let that put you off. There are plenty of reasons to visit Greenland, if you’re willing to brave the cold.

For starters, there’s the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights, which can be seen up to 300 days a year. Additionally, there are dog sledding expeditions across frozen tundra for adventure seekers or visits to traditional Inuit villages for those interested in learning about indigenous cultures.

The Land of Eternal Blue Sky and Harsh Winters: Mongolia

Mongolia isn’t just a landlocked country wedged between Russia and China; it’s also one of the coldest countries on earth, with temperatures plummeting below -40°C (-40°F) during its harsh winter months. Luckily, though, Mongolia’s infamous “eternal blue sky” (which gets over 250 sunny days per year) provides visitors with picturesque landscapes throughout the year despite harsh winters. Couples can cozy up inside traditional Mongolian yurts while sipping hot milk tea, or adventurists can take hikes through beautiful valleys flanked by snow-capped mountains.

A Winter Wonderland: Iceland

Last but not least is Iceland, a country known for its unpredictable climate, where snow can fall even in the summer months. Iceland is home to glaciers, hot springs, and one of the most unique landscapes on earth.

From driving the scenic Golden Circle route to soaking in geothermally heated outdoor pools like Blue Lagoon, there are tons of winter activities for every type of traveler. Iceland’s capital city, Reykjavik, is also a charming place to visit with its colorful buildings and local shops.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or just someone who wants to experience something different, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit these coldest countries on earth. So pack your warmest clothes and prepare for the trip of a lifetime!

The Top 5 Coldest Countries on Earth

Russia: The Land of Permafrost

Russia is known for many things, including its vastness, unique culture, and harsh winter climate. The country stretches over two continents and 11 time zones.

In the winter months, temperatures can drop to -50°C or even lower in some parts of the country. Russia is home to the world’s largest continuous permafrost zone, covering around 65% of its territory.

This means that the ground remains frozen year-round, making it difficult for plants and trees to grow. Despite its frigid temperatures, Russia has a lot to offer visitors in the winter months.

Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy skiing or snowboarding in numerous ski resorts throughout the country, such as Rosa Khutor in Sochi or Krasnaya Polyana near Moscow. For those seeking a more cultural experience, St. Petersburg is a must-visit city with stunning architecture and world-class museums.

Canada: The Great White North

Canada is known for its vast wilderness areas and extreme cold weather conditions during the winter months. With an average temperature of -25°C in January, Canada has earned itself the nickname “The Great White North.” Despite being cold, Canada offers stunning natural landscapes that attract visitors from around the world all year.

One popular destination is Banff National Park in Alberta, where visitors can witness breathtaking views of ice-capped mountains and frozen lakes while skiing or snowshoeing through pristine forests. Another must-see location is Quebec City, with its charming French-European heritage that comes alive during the wintertime with festive lights illuminating historic buildings.

Greenland: Ice and Snow Everywhere

Greenland may be one of the most remote places on earth, but it also offers some of the most incredible scenery you will ever see during the winter months. It is the world’s largest island, covered by an ice sheet that has been growing for millions of years and currently covers 80% of the island.

With temperatures ranging from -20°C to -40°C during the winter, it can be a challenging place to visit, but well worth it for those brave enough. Visitors can witness spectacular glaciers and icebergs in towns such as Ilulissat or hike through the Arctic tundra while keeping an eye out for polar bears and other wildlife.

Mongolia: The Land of Eternal Blue Sky and Harsh Winters

Mongolia is known for its nomadic culture but also for its harsh winters. While the country has a relatively warm summer, temperatures can drop to -30°C during the winter.

However, this doesn’t deter visitors from experiencing one of the most unique cultures in the world. In addition to immersing oneself in Mongolian culture, visitors can marvel at iconic sights like the Gobi Desert or frozen Khuvsgul Lake in Northern Mongolia, which is home to indigenous people who still maintain their way of life despite harsh weather conditions.

Iceland: A Winter Wonderland

Iceland is a popular travel destination all year round, but it’s also known as a winter wonderland with stunning natural scenery such as glaciers, hot springs, and the Northern Lights. In the winter months, Iceland becomes even more magical, with snow-covered landscapes adding an extra element to its already mystical ambiance.

Visitors can explore some of Iceland’s magnificent waterfalls, like Skógafoss, and witness geysers erupting beneath a snowy backdrop at Geysir Geothermal Area. Reykjavik also offers beautiful Christmas markets that are not to be missed.

Overall, these five countries each have their own uniqueness in terms of climate, culture, and scenery, but they all share one commonality: extreme cold weather during the winter months. Nevertheless, travelers who brave the cold will be rewarded with unforgettable experiences that only these destinations can offer.

Sub-Arctic Countries with Cold Winters

Norway: Fjords, Mountains, and Northern Lights

Norway is a country that boasts scenic landscapes, including fjords and mountains. In winter, the country transforms into a magical wonderland as snow blankets the ground and the northern lights dance across the sky.

One of Norway’s most popular winter destinations is Tromso, where visitors can embark on a northern lights tour to see the aurora borealis in all its glory. For those who enjoy skiing or snowboarding, Norway has several top-notch ski resorts, such as Hemsedal and Trysil.

In addition to winter activities, Norway offers unique cultural experiences such as dog sledding with traditional Sami reindeer herders. Visitors can also warm up with a cup of hot chocolate by an open fire after taking part in outdoor adventures.

Sweden, Lapland, and the Aurora Borealis

Sweden’s Lapland region is one of Europe’s last wilderness areas and home to the indigenous Sami people, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. The region’s capital city, Kiruna, offers visitors some spectacular nature experiences, including dogsledding tours or visiting an authentic ice hotel constructed every year from scratch.

Another popular destination in Sweden is Abisko National Park, where visitors can hike through untouched forests under the northern lights during the winter season. This pristine location makes it perfect for stargazing while waiting for the aurora borealis to appear.

Finland: Home of Santa Claus and Reindeer Sledding

Finland is known worldwide as Santa Claus’ official home country but also boasts other activities that are just as exciting during the wintertime. Located on top of the Arctic Circle region called Lapland, Finnish Lapland offers unique reindeer sledding as well as snowmobile safaris that let you explore nature in a fun and adventurous way. The highlight of the experience is visiting Santa’s Village in Rovaniemi, where visitors can meet Santa Claus or mail postcards directly from the town’s official post office.

Another popular activity for visitors is staying in glass igloos, which offer stunning views of the northern lights through their ceiling windows. A must-visit here is the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, known for their picturesque dome-shaped glass igloos that are heated with fireplaces and insulation to keep visitors warm during cold nights.

Overall, Norway, Sweden, and Finland are three sub-arctic countries with cold winters that offer unique experiences you cannot find anywhere else. From viewing the aurora borealis to reindeer sledding and visiting Santa Claus’ home town, there are plenty of things to do in each location, making these some of the most beautiful destinations on earth come winter season.

Lesser-Known Cold Countries Worth Visiting

Kazakhstan: The Ninth Largest Country in the World with a Harsh Winter Climate

Kazakhstan is a country in Central Asia, bordered by Russia to the north and China to the east. It is the world’s ninth-largest country by land area and, as such, has plenty of diverse landscapes to explore. While it may not be one of the most popular tourist destinations, Kazakhstan has a lot to offer for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

One of the main draws to Kazakhstan is its harsh winter climate. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, but this doesn’t stop locals from enjoying outdoor activities like skiing and ice skating.

The country is also home to some stunning natural wonders, like Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon. Aside from its natural beauty, Kazakhstan has a rich culture that is worth experiencing.

The city of Almaty, for example, boasts impressive Soviet architecture mixed with traditional Kazakh design. Visitors can also enjoy delicious local cuisine like beshbarmak (a meat and noodle dish) or kumys (fermented mare’s milk).

Estonia: A Small Country with a Rich Culture and Cold Winters

Estonia may be one of Europe’s smallest countries, but it packs a punch when it comes to culture and history. Located on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, Estonia experiences cold winters but also has mild summers, perfect for exploring its many attractions.

Tallinn, Estonia’s capital city, is known for its well-preserved medieval Old Town, complete with cobblestone streets and ancient walls. Visitors can take part in guided walking tours or simply wander through the narrow alleys to discover hidden gems like quaint cafes or quirky shops.

Beyond Tallinn lie many other interesting destinations, such as Tartu, Estonia’s second-largest city and a cultural hub with a vibrant nightlife scene. The country is also home to Lahemaa National Park, which boasts diverse natural landscapes ranging from pristine forests to beautiful coastal scenery.

Bhutan: A Himalayan Kingdom with High Altitude and Low Temperatures

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a relatively unknown country that offers visitors a unique cultural experience amidst some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. With its high altitude and low temperatures, Bhutan can be challenging to explore during the winter months, but it is definitely worth it.

The country’s culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism, which is deeply intertwined with daily life. Visitors can immerse themselves in this way of life by visiting monasteries like Tiger’s Nest or attending festivals like the Paro Tsechu.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Bhutan also has some of the most breathtaking natural scenery on earth. From snow-capped mountains to lush valleys dotted with traditional villages, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring sights in this small yet captivating kingdom.

Conclusion

While Russia, Canada, Greenland, Mongolia, and Iceland are among the coldest countries on earth and definitely worth visiting for their world-renowned Arctic experiences, lesser-known countries like Kazakhstan, Estonia, and Bhutan offer unique cultures and stunning landscapes that should not be overlooked. These destinations offer incredible opportunities for adventurous travelers looking for more than just popular tourist spots. Whether it’s skiing down snow-covered mountains or wandering through cobblestone streets in medieval towns, there’s something for everyone in these cold countries waiting to be explored.

Conclusion: The coldest countries on earth are some of the most fascinating and unique places worth visiting or learning about.

From Russia’s permafrost landscapes to Canada’s frozen tundras, each country has its own charm and beauty in being unapologetically cold. Visiting these countries during their winter months will provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness stunning natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights in Norway, skiing down Iceland’s majestic glaciers, or even experiencing the thrill of reindeer sledding in Finland.

Moreover, these cold countries are also home to some of the friendliest people who have adapted to live comfortably in such harsh environments. You will undoubtedly create unforgettable memories with locals who share their knowledge and stories about living in these unique regions.

As we travel around the world, we should not limit ourselves to warm and sunny destinations. Exploring new cultures and climates is what makes traveling so enriching and rewarding.

So why not embrace the winter season and book a trip to one of these beautiful, cold countries? Remember to pack your warmest clothes, prepare for some chilly but unforgettable experiences, and enjoy every moment spent discovering what makes each country unique.

Questions and Answers

Q: Which countries are considered the coldest in the world?

The coldest countries in the world include Mongolia, Iceland, Finland, Estonia, Norway, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Greenland.

Q: What are some other terms related to this topic?

Some other terms related to this topic are coldest countries in the world, coldest temperatures, and snowfall.

Q: What is the coldest temperature ever recorded?

The coldest temperature ever recorded is -89.2 degrees Celsius (-128.56 degrees Fahrenheit) in Antarctica.

Q: Which country has the lowest temperature ever recorded?

The lowest temperature ever recorded was -89.2 degrees Celsius (-128.56 degrees Fahrenheit) in Antarctica.

Q: What are some of the coldest countries in the world?

Some of the coldest countries in the world include Mongolia, Iceland, Finland, Estonia, Norway, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Greenland.

Q: Are there any countries that experience extremely cold temperatures?

Yes, countries like Mongolia, Iceland, Finland, Estonia, and Norway experience extremely cold temperatures.

Q: What are the top 10 coldest countries in the world?

The top 10 coldest countries in the world include Mongolia, Iceland, Finland, Estonia, Norway, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Greenland, Antarctica, and Canada.

Q: Which country is known for its freezing temperatures?

Russia, particularly the region of Oymyakon, is known for its freezing cold temperatures. It holds the record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in a permanently inhabited place at -71.2 degrees Celsius (-96.2 degrees Fahrenheit).

Q: Is Kyrgyzstan one of the coldest countries in the world?

Yes, Kyrgyzstan is considered one of the coldest countries in the world.