Best Places To See Northern Lights

One of the most sought-after items on the bucket list of travelers, the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) can be seen in countries like Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and Canada

Northern Lights (aurora borealis) make for truly unique experiences, as these provide a much deeper understanding of our planet. These are formed when the sun’s electrically charged particles collide with oxygen and nitrogen in the Earth’s upper atmosphere. Northern Lights are also visually spectacular, making it all the more fun and exciting. Let’s take a look at some of the easily reachable places from where you can witness the Northern Lights.

Best places to see Northern Lights

Since your stay will be limited to a few days, it is important to select the right season and location to increase your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights. In northern parts, the period from September to March is considered best for viewing the Northern Lights. Conditions such as clear skies, pollution levels and geomagnetic activity (Kp index) are favorable during this period.

Tromsø, Norway

This is located deep across the auroral oval, at around 69°N. With this advantageous location, the chances of viewing the Northern Lights are quite good. Tromsø has good infrastructure and buses and minibuses for tourists are easily available. In addition to the Northern Lights, travelers can also explore the dramatic fjords and mountains in the area. The trip from India to Tromsø is rated as moderate, with easy availability of flights and touring packages.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

This place is famous for its ‘blue hole’ microclimate. It is characterized by mountains creating clearer skies in comparison to the surrounding areas. Travelers can choose the Aurora Sky Station, which is a cable car service. It will take you above the low clouds. This location is preferred because it is quieter and has more of wild nature to explore. Another great attraction is Lake Torneträsk. Difficulty level is rated as moderate to slightly higher.

Finnish Lapland (Rovaniemi / Saariselkä / Inari area)

This is considered a reliable place under the Northern Lights, offering stable winter weather. Travelers like the iconic glass igloos, also called aurora cabins, from where you can watch the Northern Lights in the comfort of your bed. There are various other activities such as reindeer and sled dog trips, Sami culture and Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi). This trip’s difficulty level is rated in the range of low to moderate. Tourism infrastructure is quite good and there are various packages from India.

Iceland (Reykjavík base + Westfjords, South Coast, or Snæfellsnes)

This location offers high odds of witnessing the Northern Lights. In addition, you can also explore various glaciers, volcanic landscapes, lagoons and black-sand beaches. You can travel outside the city areas to witness the Northern Lights in more splendor. Difficulty level for this trip is considered as moderate, with easy car rentals and tours.

Yellowknife, Canada (Northwest Territories)

This location offers one of the highest chances of viewing the Northern Lights. In a year, more than 200 nights witness the Northern Lights at this location. In addition to its favorable location, this site also has clear skies and dry continental climate. Flat landscapes make it even more exciting to watch the magic of Northern Lights on a wider sky. Difficulty level for this is rated as slightly tougher due to longer journeys, extreme cold and complicated visa process.