In a world full of unique travel experiences, witnessing the Northern Lights - the holy grail of sky gazing is placed on the top of every traveller’s bucket list. And why not? The charm of hunting the lights is undeniably the best and the reasons are compelling! Right from the spectacular display of shimmering auroras to spending quiet hours under the clear night skies has its own transformative effect. Watching this breathtaking sight of aurora borealis is indeed therapeutic; hence a dream for every aurora chaser, astronomy lover, skywatcher and travel aficionado alike. But only the fortunate ones get an opportunity to enjoy this life-altering Arctic experience. Hey! Hang in there! If you too are dreaming to tick off this classic celestial phenomenon from your wishlist, this editorial piece might prove essential for you. Without fueling your wanderlust more, let’s jump straight to the ultimate list of the 11 best places to see northern lights in the world. Take a dekko!
Also, make a note of the favourable time whilst visiting these gorgeous northern lights locations. You are sure to seek inspiration simply by grabbing vistas of this soul-stirring light show only if the timing is right. Yes, the timing has to be perfect. This is also a tip for every traveller who is longing for this celestial wonder. Enjoy reading!
Norway is one of the best places in the world to see northern lights. With high-altitude places like Tromso which is considered the capital of the Arctic, the experience of viewing northern lights is going to be magical in Norway. Special safaris are also arranged for aurora chasers during the peak winter months that fall between November to February. Svalbard is another popular site in Norway where the skies are clear and nights are dark. You are sure to witness the mesmerising view of the multi-hued aurora show.
Apart from native heritage, gold mining, dog-sledging and other adrenaline-pumping activities, the land of the midnight Sun - Alaska is also famous for its spectacular northern lights. One of the best places to see northern lights here is the city of Fairbanks where the sky is clear and nights are long. It is reckoned as the top site in Alaska where northern lights are visible at an average of four out of five nights. The Aurora season here falls between late August through April when you can expect to see the grand spectacle of shimmering aurora.
Aurora hunting is best in Finland as the Northern Lights are visible around the year in its Lapland region. This undisturbed, pollution-free zone offers an incredible view of the Aurora Borealis. Another amazing experience here is that there are special purpose-built spaces like glass roof villas, Igloo huts and luxury suites from where you can enjoy nature’s most spectacular light show from the comfort of the indoors. For adventure junkies, you can enhance your experience of northern lights by adding the view whilst skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiles etc. Interesting, right?
Watch the spectacular natural light show in Canada, a country that is known for its picturesque villages and enchanting sites. There are several charming spots in Canada that offers the mesmerising experience of viewing the Aurora Borealis aka the northern lights. The blazing light show visible in the night sky draws a vivid scene of nature’s wonderment which includes the dramatic and brilliant display of colours. This probably is the reason why Canada has gained popularity among Aurora chasers. For sure, it is one of the best aurora destinations in the world where you can catch a glimpse of a unique celestial display.
Creating endless opportunities for viewing the northern lights, Iceland is a dream destination for Aurora hunters. It is one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights simply for a valid reason that the country enjoys longer nights and clear skies due to its high altitude. There are many northern lights tours arranged in the winter months for Aurora chasers because nights are longer which helps in easy spotting of aurora borealis. It is the winter wonderland where nature’s light show is life-altering. Go for it if you really wish to experience something exceptional.
The riot of colours displayed across the sky is definitely worth watching. So head right to Greenland for the best possible views of the starlit sky and breathtaking northern lights. It is the dream destination for people who love to watch this nature’s enchantment. There are special guided night tours wherein professional Aurora chasers help you spot this magical celestial phenomenon that stays etched on your heart.