Norilsk, Russia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

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Ready to pack for Norilsk, Russia? If you're planning to go to Norilsk, we've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Norilsk, Russia

Based on the climate and weather in Norilsk, Russia, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Norilsk, Russia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Norilsk, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Norilsk, Russia by month

January

If you go to Norilsk in January, you will notice that it can be bitter cold. Daytime temperatures are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

Traveling to Norilsk in February, you will notice that it is unbearably cold. Daytime temperatures are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in this region can be dangerously cold. Temperatures average in the single digits below 0 F (10+ below zero C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Norilsk is unbearably cold. Temperatures average in the 10s F (single digits below 0 C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Norilsk is very cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 10s F (single digits below 0 C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to get the correct type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Norilsk can be very chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be sure to find the right kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

Traveling to Norilsk in July, you will notice that it is crisp. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you choose the correct kind. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

Traveling to Norilsk in August, you will notice that it is cool. Daytime temperatures are in the high 50s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Norilsk is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 30s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Norilsk can be dangerously cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the single digits F (10+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Norilsk is beyond freezing. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 10+ below zero F (20+ below zero C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here can be bitter cold. Temperatures average in the single digits below 0 F (20+ below zero C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Russia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Norilsk. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Check that you get the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to go to the majestic Nurdi Kamal Mosque, take the following:

Note that there may be restrictions on who is allowed to enter this mosque; it is best to check with the Norilsk tourism authority.

If you go to the Norilsk Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Norilsk, Russia

Norilsk, Russia may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about tourist destinations. Located in the Krasnoyarsk Krai region of northern Russia, Norilsk is known as one of the world's northernmost cities and is known for the harsh living conditions that come with its sub-arctic climate. Despite this, Norilsk has plenty to offer visitors who are willing to venture north. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Norilsk, Russia.

1. Norilsk Combine Museum

The Norilsk Combine Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Norilsk and the people who have lived and worked there. The museum is located in a former mining camp and is home to exhibits on the history of Norilsk's mining and metallurgical industry, as well as displays on the city's indigenous populations and the notorious Gulag labor camps that were located in the area.

2. Talnakhskaya Guba

One of the most beautiful natural attractions in Norilsk is Talnakhskaya Guba, a stunning fjord that is located just outside the city. Visitors can take a boat tour of the fjord to see its picturesque cliffs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. The fjord is especially beautiful during the summer months when wildflowers bloom across the surrounding hillsides.

3. Putorana Plateau

The Putorana Plateau is a vast wilderness area located roughly 300 kilometers northeast of Norilsk. The plateau is home to breathtaking natural wonders, including the Norilskaya River Canyon, the Kureyskaya Steppe, and the Kara-Kul Lake. Visitors to the plateau can go hiking, fishing, and boating in this pristine wilderness area.

4. Norilsk Polar Drama Theater

The Norilsk Polar Drama Theater is one of the city's most famous cultural landmarks. The theater was founded in 1959 and has hosted some of Russia's most famous actors and performers. Visitors to the theater can attend performances of classic plays, musicals, and other cultural events.

5. Dudinka Museum of Local Lore and the History of the People of Taimyr

The Dudinka Museum of Local Lore and the History of the People of Taimyr is located in the nearby town of Dudinka, which is accessible from Norilsk by car, bus, or boat. The museum features exhibits on the local history and culture of Taimyr, including displays on the traditional lifestyles of the indigenous Evenki and Dolgan people who have inhabited the area for centuries.

Norilsk may not be the most obvious travel destination, but for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, this northern Russian city is well worth a visit. With its unique history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture, Norilsk is a hidden gem that offers much to explore and discover.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Imus, Philippines, Lithia Springs, Georgia, United States of America, Tabant, Morocco, Mersch, Luxembourg, West Bali, Indonesia, Lincoln, New Mexico, United States of America, Devizes, England, United Kingdom, Adana, Turkey, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, Hanover, Germany, and Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya.