This work focuses on developing the mathematical model of surface roughness (Ra) in the turning of Inconel 625 superalloy with cryogenically treated tungsten carbide inserts. The influence of cryogenic treated on the microstructure and hardness of tungsten carbide tools was also investigated for the as-received inserts and deep cryogenic treatment at − 196 °C for 12, 24, and 36 h conditions. Turning experiments have been performed according to an orthogonal array L16 with three parameters (cutting tool, feed rate, cutting speed) at different levels with a 1 mm depth of cut. The ideal cutting tool and cutting parameters were evaluated in terms of the surface roughness (Ra). Analysis of Variance has been applied to determine the percentage of each cutting factor. It has been observed that the cutting speed has a maximum with 66.28% contribution on Ra. The best optimal turning parameters are obtained as A3B3C1 according to S/N ration. The mathematical model of Ra has been developed by regression analysis. The developed model is tested with verification experiments and found to be in good agreement with the experimental results.