Ever dreamt of watching the magical hues of auroras? This is your sign to book your trip to the best places for the Northern Lights and witness one of the best experiences of your lifetime!
As per studies, the Northern Lights visibility is expected at its peak from 2024 to 2026, the highest in 11 years.
Given the extraordinary visibility, 42% of Americans are planning to embark on a journey for this sought-after experience, as per a survey conducted by Expedia. So why must you hold back?!
While this phenomenon is generally witnessed around Arctic regions, due to high visibility this year, the auroras were visible in many parts of Europe and North America back in May.
Our guide to the best places for Northern Lights will make your dream vacation come true.
What is the best time to see the Northern Lights?
Winter months are the best to spot the Northern Lights. Typically, any time between late September to late March is the ideal time.
While this natural phenomenon happens throughout the year, the summer sun makes it difficult to spot the dancing hues with the naked eye.
Since it is a natural occurrence, there is no particular time as to when these lights might appear in the sky.
One should have patience and be ready to endure the cold climate of the Arctic region in order to watch the dancing lights of the Aurora Borealis.
Best Places for Northern Lights Trip from India
Plan your Northern Lights trip from India to these places where you will experience the most amazing time of your life:
1. Fairbanks, Alaska
One of the best places for Northern Lights in the world, Fairbanks is located directly below the auroral oval- the region with the best auroral sightings.
However, there is more to Fairbanks than Northern Lights. From snowmobiling tours to hot springs and festive holiday experiences like Santa Claus House, it is a package deal!
2. Tromso, Norway
Tromso is one of the most popular places for a Northern Lights trip from India among tourists.
As the sun doesn’t shine from September to April in this region, there are more opportunities to catch the dancing lights.
While it is a small city, it is lively enough to give you a memorable time!
The Northern Lights Music Festival is held in the city during late January or early February for 10 days inviting tourists from all over the world.
One should get away from the city lights to spot the auroras clearly to avoid light pollution.
3. Nellim, Finland
This remote destination is perfect for watching the majestic views of the Northern Lights with the least light pollution.
The small village offers an authentic wilderness experience to those looking for an exquisite adventure. Enjoy the peaceful nature as you cosy up in your cabin.
4. Abisko, Sweden
Given its location, Sweden is one of the best places for Northern Lights. The fall and winter months make the best time to spot beautiful lights in the sky with the increased duration of darkness.
The Abisko National Park is a wonderful treat in itself. The rugged terrain and clear dark skies are perfect for a night of stargazing within the lap of nature- almost feels like you’re living a dream.
5. Churchill, Canada
Churchill offers unique experiences for your Northern Lights trip from India.
While you witness the magical lights during the night, meet families of fluffy polar bears during the day from your sleeper car!
The Manitoba town experiences around 300 auroral nights every year and is a hotspot for befriending animals of the wilderness.
You can even book an educational tour at Churchill Northern Studies Centre to make your trip even more informational and interesting.
6. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
With lush forests and refreshing lakes and streams, Voyageurs National Park is a must-have experience for your Northern Lights trip from India.
What makes this park so special is that you can only access it on a boat or while snowmobiling during winter months.
While in the winter months, you can easily witness the Northern Lights on a clear dark sky, the summers are for enjoying a clear view of a starry Milky Way. Now that’s a place you shouldn’t miss!
7. Reykjavik, Iceland
There are plenty of national parks and viewing points for Northern Lights across Iceland yet the capital city of Reykjavik remains the most sought-after.
It offers plenty of tours, accommodations and other tourist activities for you to indulge in.
The hilly area of Öskjuhlið in Reykjavik is the most ideal place to spot auroras away from the city’s light pollution.
Perlan, the country’s only planetarium at the top of this hill, gives panoramic views of the city at night making it perfect for a night full of fun and adventure.
8. Kangerlussuaq, Greenland
Since Greenland is not easily accessible and remains as a remote destination, it offers one of the best places for Northern Lights adventures.
The small town of Kangerlussuaq is the gateway to Greenland having the main airport.
You will catch the best views of the Northern Lights atop the Greenland Ice Cap Glacier.
With almost 300 clear sky nights per year, chances of spotting your dancing lights become quite high.
9. Orkney, Scotland
Known as ‘Mirrie Dancers’ in the local dialect, the Northern Lights are also visible on remote coasts of the UK.
The captivating islands of Orkney are one of the most ideal places to plan your Northern Lights trip from India.
Apart from the spectacular auroras, you can spend time across the coastal landscapes, archaeological ruins and historical monuments.
10. Stewart Island, New Zealand
Even though less in number, certain locations in the Southern Hemisphere also witness this natural phenomenon.
They are called Southern Lights, as per their location, and are more prominent during the winter months of June to August.
Stewart Island in New Zealand is among the best places for the display of lights in the southern hemisphere given its remote location.
Since most of the island comes under the Rakiura National Park, it is less prone to light pollution making auroras clearer.
Things to remember while planning your Northern Lights trip from India
- Keep a check on the weather forecast to track the clear sky nights.
- Northern Lights may be visible as soon as it gets dark in the Arctic region but you may need to stay up until midnight or later on some nights.
- Keep enough warm clothes and be prepared for the extreme cold temperatures of the Arctic region.
- Find an open and dark area away from the light pollution to spot the most visible auroras.
- Adjust your eyes to the darkness beforehand to enjoy the beautiful colours of the lights.
- Don’t forget to take beautiful pictures to add to your memories!
Tips for clicking Northern Lights pictures
Follow these tips to get the perfect pictures at the best places for Northern Lights:
- Increase your ISO between 400 to 800.
- Lower the aperture as much as you can.
- Use a sturdy tripod to avoid hazy or blurry images.
- Use a long exposure shutter speed, preferably between 15-30 seconds.
From Norway to New Zealand, we have given you the best places for a Northern Lights trip from India that you can plan with your family.
It is an experience of a lifetime that remains on the bucket list of almost every traveller!
Let us be a part of your journey and make it easier for you to chase auroras.
