Pond Inlet

Pond Inlet, Nunavut

Pond Inlet, also known as Mittimatalik, is a small, predominantly Inuit community located on northern Baffin Island in the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Nunavut, Canada. The name 'Mittimatalik' means 'the place where Mittima is buried'. Pond Inlet is often referred to as the 'Jewel of the North' due to its stunning natural beauty and rich wildlife. Visitors can enjoy sightings of polar bears, caribou, wolves, Arctic foxes, ringed seals, and narwhals. The Nattinnak Visitors Centre showcases local artists, and nearby attractions include the Sirmilik National Park on Bylot Island, the Tamaarvik Territorial Park, and the Qilaukat Thule site. The area boasts a harsh climate with long, dark winters and temperatures averaging -35°C. Despite the challenging conditions, the community thrives through hunting, fishing, and trapping. Pond Inlet lies at the ice flow edge with an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular destination for travelers who arrive by air or cruise ship. Mount Herodier, located near the hamlet, offers stunning panoramic views of the region. The Bylot Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a significant protected area in the vicinity, serving as a nesting ground for various bird species. The traditional way of life in Pond Inlet dates back thousands of years, involving hunting and fishing on land, sea, and ice. The community has a rich cultural heritage, with archaeological sites like the Thule site at Qaiqsut offering insights into its past.

Location

City: Pond Inlet

Region: Nunavut

Country: Canada

Coordinates: 72.70000° N, 77.96111° W