Norway has launched a specialized night train service that aims to make viewing the Aurora Borealis easier, warmer, and more comfortable than traditional tours. Marketed as the Northern Lights Train or the Midnight Aurora Route, this seasonal service runs between October and March, the period with the longest nights and the best odds of seeing the aurora in the Arctic sky. (www.ndtv.com)
The journey begins at Narvik Railway Station, a town well above the Arctic Circle known for its dramatic terrain and proximity to aurora activity. From Narvik, the train travels on the historic Ofoten Line, a route lined with fjords, snow-covered peaks, and remote Arctic wilderness. (Parade)
What sets this service apart from regular winter rail travel is its focus on the Northern Lights. Carriages are designed with large glass walls and roofs that give passengers broad views of the night sky. Seats are often positioned so riders can lean back and watch the stars and auroras overhead without craning their necks. Interior lighting is kept low to reduce glare on the glass. (www.ndtv.com)
The experience also blends comfort with education. English-speaking guides provide commentary, share aurora photography tips, and offer insights into the science behind the light show. Passengers may see real-time geomagnetic activity and cloud cover data through onboard displays. (Gulf Good News)
A highlight of the route is a stop at Katterat Station, a remote mountain location far from artificial light. Here, passengers can step off the train, warm up beside a bonfire, sip hot drinks, and listen to stories about local history and Arctic life before heading back out into the night. (Visit Norway)
The train ride lasts about three-hour round trip, and tickets are generally priced around 1,495 Norwegian kroner (~127€/$140). This includes the train journey, refreshments, photography guidance, and the wilderness stop. Because demand is high in peak months, early booking through the official operator’s website is recommended. (farandwide.com)
This Arctic rail experience appeals to travellers who want to see the Northern Lights without long outdoor waits in sub-zero conditions. By using existing rail infrastructure and Norway’s renewable electricity grid, the service also keeps a lower environmental footprint than many other aurora tours. (Gulf Good News)
For practical details and booking: Visit Norwegian Travel – The Northern Lights Train page here: https://www.norwegian.travel/experiences/northern-lights-train/ (Norwegian Travel)
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