Kuhmo

Kuhmo is a town and municipality in Finland, located in the Kainuu region in eastern Finland, near the border with Russia. The municipality comprises the town of Kuhmo and surrounding rural areas. The landscape is characterized by boreal forests, lakes, and marshes, part of the taiga biome. The area is known for outdoor recreation such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and winter sports.

The economy is based on forestry, small-scale industry, agriculture, and services, with tourism playing a growing role. The region attracts visitors for nature experiences and for culture, particularly the Kuhmo Chamber Music Festival, an internationally recognized event that takes place in summer and brings many artists and audiences to the town. The festival has a long association with the local cultural life and arts venues, including facilities for concerts and performances.

Kuhmo has basic regional services, schools, and health care facilities. The municipality is connected mainly by road; the nearest railway service and larger airports are located in Kajaani or other regional centers. The population is concentrated in the town area, while much of the municipality consists of forested countryside with numerous lakes and protected areas.

Historically, Kuhmo developed as a rural parish and later became a market town, with forestry and agriculture playing central roles in its economy and development.