Also known as Aurora Borealis, it is a phenomenon observed in Northern Hemisphere. It is best viewed from places around the Arctic Circle. The dancing vibrant hues of blue, green, pink and violet are formed when electrically charged particles from sun enter the earth’s atmosphere and collide with gaseous particles. This beautiful phenomenon can be seen from late august to Mid-April. A whole part of travel industry including dedicated hotels is in place to experience Northern Lights at comfort. Though this phenomenon can also be experienced in the southern hemisphere, but such places are rare and limited to southern tips of New Zealand n Tasmania or at places in Argentina. So here we are with best places to visit to experience Northern Lights.
Fairbanks, Alaska – It is geographically located underneath the aurora oval, making it best to spot this phenomenon. University of Alaska also announces the forecast of aurora sightings making it easy for travellers. If you’ll stay for continuous 3 days in b/w September and March, there are 80% chances to spot Northern Lights. This region has many hotels offering window view of it.
Reykjavik, Iceland – September to April is the best time to see the Northern Lights. Öskjuhlið a densely wooded area in Reykjavik is best spot that also has a planetarium Perlan having an observation deck on fourth floor as a nice spot to witness Northern Lights.
Tromso, Norway – Located above the Arctic Circle makes it great spot to see Northern Lights. This city is well connected with flights and has coastal climate making stays pleasant. From late January to early February it also hosts a Northern Lights Festival. The locals call it Polar Night.
Yukon, Canada – It is located on North Western Canada, right next to Alaska. Best time to view them is mid-August to mid-April. There are number of tour operators here that provide cosy stays, and view of Northern Lights even from hot bath tub. They’ll also provide warm clothing kit.
Lapland, Finland – Also known as the home of Santa Claus, Northern Lights are visible here least 200 nights a year, which is almost every other day. You can also indulge in cross country skiing, sled dog tour, or in snow mobile. You can also choose to stay in glass built igloo to watch northern lights from comfort of your warm bed.
Abisko, Sweden – Best time to visit here is between November and March. It is a small village located in north of Arctic Circle. Northern Lights are best viewed from Aurora Sky Station in Abisko National Park. On trip here you can also enjoy Lake Torneträsk, reindeer farm, and skiing.
Edinburgh, Scotland – This place is for your budget friendly Northern Light spotting. Northern Lights are called Mirrie Dancers in Scotland, and they could be seen from the outskirts of Edinburgh in autumn and winter, from Moray Coast, Galloway Forest Park, Cairngorms, and Arthur’s Seat.
Jokulsarlon, Iceland – It is a lake along the Southern coastline of Iceland. It is away from light pollution and reflection of Northern Lights in lake is simply spectacular. Winters are the perfect time to visit, but watch the weather forecast to avoid snowy and rainy nights.
Siberia, Russia – Northern Russia is a perfect spot for spotting Northern Lights, only if you are comfortable with under freezing temperatures. Siberia has very low light pollution, and long dark nights, making it best to view Northern Lights. Plus it also lies in the aurora belt.
Kulusuk, Greenland – Greenland gets nights earlier than rest of the world. Winters of Greenland are perfect for catching up with Northern Lights. The best thing about this place is that you won’t get frostbite nor will you have to walk far into the wilderness. In here it gets very picturesque.
Upper Peninsula, Michigan – It is the best Northern Light spotting places in United States, during spring and fall. There are many lodging facilities close to Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, and the staff notifies guests about aurora forecasts. Headlands Dark Sky Park is another great spot for sights.
Saadjärv, Estonia – Aside to many other places in Estonia, this one is best for Aurora sightings in winters. It is located by the Lake Saadjärv, and is close to Vooremaa Nature Park. During days you can visit the museums, The Ice Age Centre, visit Alatskivi Castle, or see Elistvere Animal Park.
Churchill, Canada – Though this city is more popular for sightings of Polar Bears, but you’d be surprised to know that one can see Northern Lights in more than 300 nights per year. You can also indulge in learning working at Churchill Northern Studies Centre to know more about Aurora lightings, or book a room in sleeper train Tundra Lodge for best of both the worlds.
Faroe Islands, Denmark – Placed parallel to Scotland, it too has a similar environment fit for sighting Northern Lights. The islands are best known for Puffins, and there are 18 islands from where you can see the Northern Lights. This spot is also easy on travel budget, making it perfect.
Luosto, Finland – It offers great plain sight views of Northern Lights. It is surrounded by wild untouched forests and Amethyst mine. You’ll get to see Northern Lights spread from one corner of the horizon to other. You can also sight them from Lake Inari with fabulous reflections. The place is also great for indulging in Skiing and snow mobiles.
There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign!
