Russia’s vast expanse offers some of the most spectacular and remote locations to witness the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. While the Northern Lights are typically seen in high-latitude regions closer to the Arctic Circle, Russia’s northern territories provide a rare opportunity to catch this mesmerizing phenomenon—especially if you’re aboard a train. Several scenic train routes pass through areas known for their views of the Northern Lights, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.
In this article, we will guide you to the best locations to witness the Northern Lights from a train in Russia, and how you can plan your trip for the optimal aurora viewing experience.
1. The Kola Peninsula: The Best Place for Northern Lights Viewing
Overview:
The Kola Peninsula, located in the far northwest of Russia, is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. This region lies well above the Arctic Circle, making it an ideal location for aurora sightings during the dark winter months. The Kola Peninsula includes the city of Murmansk, which is one of Russia’s largest cities located beyond the Arctic Circle.
The Journey:
- Murmansk to St. Petersburg: There is a scenic train route that runs from Murmansk to St. Petersburg, which offers a chance to view the Northern Lights. As you travel northwards to Murmansk, you’re entering the auroral zone, giving you the best chance of spotting the Northern Lights during winter months (September to April).
- Best Time to Travel: The ideal months for catching the aurora are from late September to March when the nights are longest and the skies darkest. The Kola Peninsula is far enough north to offer regular sightings of the aurora, especially when the solar activity is high.
Why Visit:
Traveling by train in the Kola Peninsula offers a mix of convenience, comfort, and adventure. The region’s remote locations mean that there is less light pollution, which increases your chances of seeing the aurora. If you’re lucky, you may even catch the spectacular dance of the Northern Lights over the snow-covered landscape as the train moves through the Arctic wilderness.
2. Murmansk to the Arctic Circle: The Polar Express Experience
Overview:
For those who want to experience the Arctic Circle and see the Northern Lights, the Murmansk Railway offers an unforgettable journey. The railway runs from Murmansk deep into the Arctic Circle, and while the train journey itself may not be entirely dedicated to aurora viewing, it offers excellent opportunities for an aurora sighting in the right conditions.
The Journey:
- Murmansk to Kirovsk: This train route takes you from Murmansk to Kirovsk, a town located near the Khibiny Mountains. The area is known for clear skies and frequent aurora displays, particularly in the winter months.
- Night Travel: Trains from Murmansk travel overnight, which means that you may be able to spot the Northern Lights during the evening hours when solar activity is at its peak. The train ride, combined with the opportunity to see the aurora, makes this a unique and unforgettable experience.
Why Visit:
This route is ideal for travelers who want to combine a journey into the Russian Arctic with the chance to see the Northern Lights in some of Russia’s most pristine and untouched landscapes. The relatively low population density in this area means fewer light distractions, offering you the best opportunity to witness the lights in their full glory.
3. The Barents Sea Route: Train and Boat Combo for Aurora Viewing
Overview:
While there isn’t a direct train that goes along the coast of the Barents Sea, the route from Murmansk to Teriberka (a small village by the Barents Sea) can provide an excellent combination of train and boat travel. The Barents Sea area, especially near Teriberka, is a popular spot for Northern Lights enthusiasts because of its isolation and the lack of light pollution.
The Journey:
- Murmansk to Teriberka: You can take a train to Murmansk and then continue your journey by bus or private transfer to the coastal village of Teriberka. The journey along the Barents Sea offers breathtaking views and is known for spectacular aurora sightings.
- Best Viewing Locations: Once you arrive in Teriberka, you can find numerous spots along the coastline with unobstructed views of the night sky, ideal for photographing the Northern Lights. While Teriberka itself is not accessible directly by train, the route from Murmansk is the gateway to this unique Northern Lights experience.
Why Visit:
Combining the train journey to Murmansk with a visit to Teriberka creates a multi-faceted adventure. Not only will you get to see the Northern Lights from the train, but you can also immerse yourself in a spectacular coastal aurora experience in one of Russia’s most remote locations.
4. The Trans-Siberian Railway: A Potential Aurora Adventure
Overview:
Though the Trans-Siberian Railway is primarily known for its journey from Moscow to Vladivostok, it also offers potential opportunities for spotting the Northern Lights—especially when traveling through the more northern stretches of the route.
The Journey:
- Trans-Siberian Railway to Irkutsk: As the Trans-Siberian Railway passes through Irkutsk and heads towards Lake Baikal, the train moves through some of Siberia’s northern regions. While it’s not the primary route for aurora sightings, passengers traveling in the colder months (November to March) have a chance of spotting the aurora, especially during the later stages of the journey when the train moves further north.
- Lake Baikal: The train skirts the shores of Lake Baikal, a prime spot for Northern Lights enthusiasts due to its isolation and dark skies. While not specifically known for auroras, there have been occasional sightings along this route when solar activity is high.
Why Visit:
Though the Trans-Siberian Railway isn’t a dedicated aurora route, it offers an exciting option for those who are traveling through Russia and are lucky enough to spot the lights as they cross the country. The train’s route through northern Siberia and close to Lake Baikal makes it a potentially rewarding journey for aurora seekers in winter.
5. Kola Peninsula Winter Train Tour: A Special Northern Lights Experience
Overview:
Some specialized Northern Lights train tours operate seasonally, offering unique packages designed specifically for Northern Lights enthusiasts. These tours combine travel by train with the best spots for aurora sightings in the Kola Peninsula and beyond.
The Journey:
- Murmansk and Beyond: These guided tours often depart from Murmansk and take travelers along remote parts of the Kola Peninsula, offering panoramic views of the Northern Lights. The journey may include stops at secluded locations known for frequent aurora displays.
- Expert Guides: The tours often include local experts who are knowledgeable about aurora viewing, helping to increase the likelihood of seeing the lights by guiding you to the best locations based on the night’s conditions.
Why Visit:
These specially designed train tours offer the perfect blend of comfort, education, and adventure. You can relax in comfort while journeying through Russia’s wild north, all while waiting for the mesmerizing Northern Lights to light up the night sky.
Conclusion: A Train Journey with the Northern Lights
Russia offers some of the best opportunities to witness the Northern Lights, and traveling by train makes it a truly unique experience. Whether you’re heading to Murmansk for a classic Kola Peninsula adventure, traveling along the Trans-Siberian Railway, or embarking on a special Northern Lights tour, Russia’s vast northern regions provide unforgettable views of the aurora.
For those lucky enough to see the Northern Lights from a train, it’s an experience that combines the thrill of rail travel with the awe of one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena. If you’re planning a trip to Russia during the winter months, make sure to look out for the lights—it’s an adventure you’ll never forget.
