There is no single reason a country ends up among the coldest on Earth. In some cases, the explanation lies in geography, with vast territories stretching towards the Arctic. Elsewhere, towering mountain ranges keep temperatures low despite being far from the polar regions. Annual temperature averages often reveal a different picture from what travellers experience during a short visit. A nation may enjoy warm summers and still rank among the coldest because winter occupies such a large part of the year. Based on average temperature figures, these ten countries record some of the chilliest climates anywhere in the world, each shaped by its own landscape, elevation and location. Long winters, limited daylight and persistent snow cover influence daily life across many of these nations. From remote northern plains to high-altitude plateaus, their climates highlight the remarkable diversity of Earth's coldest environments.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
