Coldest Markets in the World: Russian Polar Circle Markets

Salekhard is the only town located right on the polar circle. In February the temperature is about -40C. Not caring about such weather condition local markets are working at a full swing.

In the plane it is warm yet.

But snow and cold are waiting.

There is no one around within kilometres, only snow, taiga and Northern slopes.

Reindeer breeders feel comfortable in their huts right near a hotel.

One can choose between a hotel and a tent of skins.

Master of the chum (that’s how these tents of skins are called).

Making tea inside.

The kid doesn’t feel cold, he’s absolutely ok with the temperature.

Polar night has come.

This is the market where native people, wearing beautiful national costumes, are selling what is given to them by nature: fish, reindeer meat and furs. Looking at the postcards with Northern people, wearing such costumes, one may think that they have put it on just for the pictures or tourists. But it turns out that they actually wear such clothes and feel pretty comfortable.

They saw up meat right in front of a customer.

By her snowmobile.

Giving change.

Entire family.

The vendors have to be persuaded to sit to a picture as they do it very unwillingly.

Like this woman hiding her face from the camera.

However, after a talk they become softer and smile.

Market’s general view.

Everything is for real here not like on some national festivals for tourists. They come from tundra and bring what is given by nature. After selling it they come back homy by snowmobiles.

These people live in the way their ancestors used to live hundreds of years ago. However, civilization has touched them, too. They use snowmobiles, diesel generators, cellphones and TV sets.

In their majority they are people of few words. They are also very reserved and scarcely let one take a picture of them without asking a permission.

Pike.

Location: Salekhard

via sholademi and photofthawild