Sometimes harshest climates make the best tourist spots

Many people love to embark on a hassle-free journey to visit places that are attractive and provide the utmost comfort. They also pick destinations that have clear skies and natural pristine beauty and are picture-perfect for that ideal snap. But there are some world-famous tourist spots that have extreme weather conditions. The climate at these places may be harsh but there is a no dearth of tourists at these destinations.

Oymyakon, Russia

People travelling to Russia should be geared up to weather cold spells. Oymyakon, which is situated in the Sakha Republic on the north-eastern side of Russia, is one of the coldest places on earth. The average temperature of this frigid region drops below the freezing point from October to April. Pictures of local people's eyelashes covered in the snow show that frost rules the roost in Oymyakon.

It is better to visit this coldest permanently inhabited place on earth in the months of June and July as the temperature would rise during that time of the year. The main attractions of Oymyakon are the reindeer sledge ride and thermal spring. Once an electronic temperature machine was installed to record the temperature of Oymyakon but it too broke down due to the harsh climatic conditions.

Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

There is no doubt whatsoever that the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia is a mesmerizing landscape. This desert plain is one of the world's hottest places and is also one of the lowest at 100m below sea level. Despite the hot weather, Danakil Depression is one of the favourite destinations of tourists. The best time to visit this hot place is between December and February as there will be a relief in rising temperatures. Live volcanoes, acidic pools, and colourful lakes are a treat for the eyes.

Barrow, Alaska

Though the climate of Alaska is cold and dry, this US state is the favoured hunting ground of nature enthusiasts who are in search of breathtaking sceneries. Barrow city in Alaska is situated 300 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Though Barrow is not as popular as the Glacier Bay in southeast Alaska among tourists, the city provides a good view of the magical northern lights. Close to 4,000 people residing in Barrow city live in complete darkness from November to January but that period is the best time to watch the spectacle of the northern lights. But one should be prepared to endure the extremely cold climate as the temperature may dip below minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Barrow is the ideal place to enjoy the enchanting beauty of northern lights dancing across the night sky.

Meghalaya, India

The northeastern state of Meghalaya in India can be termed the abode of rain gods as it receives rain for a major part of the year. And when the heaven opens up, Meghalaya is charming than ever before. The waterfalls and lakes are out of this world, and more tourists visit Meghalaya during the monsoon season that falls between June and September. The spectacular Nohkalikai waterfalls cascading down from a height of 340 m is a sought-after destination for tourists during the monsoon season.