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Russia
Oimajkon
Where is it?
Oymyakon is a rural locality situated in the Sakha Republic (Yakutia) in the Russian Far East, specifically in northeastern Siberia. It is located about 350 km (220 miles) from the Arctic Circle and lies in the coldest inhabited region on Earth. The village is found in the Oymyakon Valley, a remote area known for its extreme winter temperatures.
What is it?
Oymyakon is famously recognized as the coldest inhabited place on Earth. The village holds the record for the lowest temperature ever recorded in the Northern Hemisphere, which was −67.7°C (−89.9°F) in 1933. The extreme cold is due to its location in a natural "cold trap," where cold air settles in the valley and is unable to escape, especially during the winter months.
Despite the extreme conditions, Oymyakon is home to a small population, most of whom rely on agriculture, reindeer herding, and traditional Siberian practices. The village has developed a unique way of life, adapting to its harsh environment. Winter tourism, including visitors who seek to experience the extreme cold, has also become a draw.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Oymyakon for those wanting to experience its legendary cold is during the winter months, from November to March.
December to February is the peak winter period when temperatures can be at their most extreme, offering visitors a true taste of the harsh environment. However, visiting during these months requires careful preparation and a high tolerance for cold.
Why Should You Visit?
Extreme Cold Experience: For adventure seekers, Oymyakon offers the unparalleled opportunity to experience the harshest winter conditions on Earth.
Unique Culture: Learn about the resilient local culture, where people have adapted to life in one of the most extreme climates in the world.
Stunning Landscapes: The frozen landscapes, covered in snow and ice for much of the year, provide dramatic and picturesque views that are especially captivating in winter.
Cold Record: For those fascinated by weather extremes, Oymyakon is a must-visit to witness the village’s claim to fame as the coldest inhabited place.
Tips for the Trip
Prepare for Extreme Cold: Visitors must be fully prepared for subzero temperatures. Proper winter gear is essential, including insulated clothing, thermal layers, extreme cold-weather boots, gloves, hats, and face protection.
Travel with a Guide: Due to the harsh environment, it is advisable to travel with a guide familiar with the area and cold-weather survival techniques.
Stay Safe: The severe temperatures can be dangerous. Ensure that you are physically prepared for the cold and monitor the weather closely.
Plan Logistics Carefully: Oymyakon is extremely remote, and access to the village can be difficult, especially during the winter. Arrange transportation and accommodations in advance.
Tunguska Event
Where is it?
The Tunguska Event took place in the remote Tunguska River Basin in Siberia, Russia, on June 30, 1908. The explosion occurred in an area about 2,000 square kilometers (770 square miles) in size, near the Podkamennaya Tunguska River, which is roughly 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the nearest village. The site is located in a sparsely populated part of Siberia, deep in the forest, making it difficult to study immediately after the event.
What is it?
The Tunguska Event was a massive explosion that released energy equivalent to between 10-15 megatons of TNT, over 1,000 times more powerful than the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The cause of the explosion is believed to be the airburst of a comet or asteroid. The object, estimated to be about 50-60 meters (164-197 feet) in diameter, exploded in the atmosphere, 5 to 10 kilometers (3 to 6 miles) above the Earth’s surface, before it could reach the ground. The blast flattened an estimated 80 million trees, creating a large area of devastation, but there were no direct human casualties due to the lack of settlements in the region. The shockwave from the explosion was powerful enough to be recorded on seismographs worldwide, and the explosion was visible from over 100 kilometers away. The Tunguska Event remains one of the largest impacts on Earth in recorded history, though no physical impact crater was formed, since the object exploded in the air. It serves as a reminder of the potential dangers posed by near-Earth objects.
Best Time to Visit
The site of the Tunguska Event is located in a remote and difficult-to-reach region of Siberia. Due to the harsh climate and the wilderness of the area, visits are typically made in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is milder. However, accessing the location is a challenge, and trips require special permits, preparation, and a guide.
Why Should You Visit?
Historical Significance: The Tunguska Event is one of the most significant unexplained natural phenomena of the 20th century. Visiting the site provides a sense of connection to this mysterious event.
Scientific Interest: The explosion remains a subject of scientific inquiry, with researchers studying the site to better understand the effects of airbursts and the dangers of asteroids and comets colliding with Earth.
Natural Beauty: Despite its scientific importance, the region is also home to vast forests, diverse wildlife, and pristine natural landscapes, making it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts.
Tips for the Trip
Travel Logistics: Due to the remote location, visiting the Tunguska site is not easy. It requires careful planning, including arranging flights to the nearest city (e.g., Krasnoyarsk), followed by a long journey by land or boat. Many travelers visit through specialized expedition tours.
Physical Fitness: The trip to the Tunguska site involves navigating dense forests, which can be physically demanding. Make sure to be in good physical condition for the journey.
Guides and Permits: It is highly recommended to travel with an experienced guide who knows the region and has permission to access the site. Obtaining the necessary permits is essential, as the area is largely uninhabited and located in a protected zone.
Clothing and Gear: Depending on the season, pack appropriate clothing for the rugged and often cold environment. Bring gear suitable for outdoor exploration, including sturdy footwear, insect repellent, and plenty of water.