The coldest countries in the world are known for their freezing temperatures, icy landscapes, and strong, resilient people.
These places endure long winters where temperatures can drop far below freezing, reports Vanguard.
Despite the harsh conditions, they are rich in culture, traditions, and natural wonders like the Northern Lights and glaciers.
Here are the top 9 coldest countries in the world:
1. Russia
Russia is the world’s largest country and is known for its freezing winters. Siberia, especially, sees temperatures drop below -30°C (-22°F), making it one of the coldest places on Earth. Norilsk, a Siberian city, is among the coldest inhabited areas in the world. Winter in Russia is intense, with frozen lakes and snowy landscapes. People embrace the cold with activities like ice hockey and ice fishing and enjoy hearty foods to stay warm.
2. Canada
Canada, the second-largest country, has long, icy winters, especially in northern regions like Yukon and Nunavut. Temperatures in winter often fall below -30°C (-22°F). Canadians celebrate the season with skiing, ice hockey, and events like the Quebec Winter Carnival. Its Arctic tundra and the Rocky Mountains offer beautiful yet chilly adventures.
3. Greenland
Greenland has an Arctic climate with winter temperatures ranging from -10°C to -30°C (14°F to -22°F). Inland areas can get even colder. The country is 80% covered by ice, creating breathtaking but frigid landscapes. Locals live in harmony with the cold, enjoying activities like dog sledding and ice fishing.
4. Iceland
Iceland’s winters are milder than its name suggests, thanks to the North Atlantic Drift. In Reykjavik, winter temperatures range from -1°C to -6°C (30°F to 21°F). The country is known for its glaciers, hot springs, and the Northern Lights. Icy mountains and warm lagoons make Iceland a magical winter destination.
5. Finland
Finland is a winter wonderland, especially in Lapland, where temperatures often fall below -30°C (-22°F). Snowy forests, frozen lakes, and the Northern Lights create stunning views. Finns stay cozy with saunas, enjoy skiing, and celebrate winter with Christmas markets and festivals.
6. Sweden
Sweden’s coldest winters are in Lapland, with temperatures dipping to -30°C (-22°F). Snow blankets forests and villages, creating picturesque scenery. Swedes embrace winter by skiing, ice skating, and celebrating festivals. Southern areas, like Stockholm, are a bit milder but still cold and snowy.
7. Norway
Norway is famous for its fjords, glaciers, and winter sports. In the north, temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F). Norwegians love skiing, dog sledding, and celebrating winter with festivals. While coastal areas like Oslo are milder, the interior and far north face much colder weather.
8. Mongolia
Mongolia has one of the world’s harshest winters and it is one of the coldest countries in the world. In Ulaanbaatar, the capital, temperatures often reach -30°C (-22°F). Nomadic herders adapt to the cold with warm yurts and celebrate traditions like Tsagaan Sar, the Lunar New Year.
9. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan’s winters are tough, especially in the north and its capital, Nur-Sultan, where temperatures often drop to -30°C (-22°F). Snow-covered landscapes dominate the season, and people enjoy winter sports and crafts during the chilly months.
