Night-time travel, often called noctourism, has become a major travel trend — and Norway is leading the way. This winter, the country is launching the world’s
first panoramic night train made especially for watching the Northern Lights. It’s designed to be comfortable, innovative, and eco-friendly, giving travellers a truly magical way to experience the Arctic sky. This special train is all about the view. The carriages have glass walls and glass ceilings, so you can look straight up at the sky while the Northern Lights dance above you. The lighting inside the train is kept very soft to avoid reflections, making the colours outside look clearer and brighter. The seats are slightly reclined and tilted upwards, so you don’t have to keep moving around to catch a glimpse.
Why Norway Is Perfect For This Journey
Norway stands out as one of the top spots on earth to watch the Northern Lights. This train ride just takes it up a notch. You start in Narvik, way up north—one of the country’s last railway stops before the Arctic really takes over—and wind through stretches famous for open skies and bright auroras. Nearby Tromsø, about 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, is often called the Northern Lights capital of the world. During winter, there’s a good chance — sometimes as high as 50% — of spotting the aurora, making this route especially exciting.
When Does The Train Run?
The Northern Lights Train is a seasonal experience and runs from October to March. These months offer long, dark nights, which are perfect for aurora sightings. Winter is truly the best time to hop on board and hope for a sky full of glowing colours.
How The Journey Unfolds
The trip begins at Narvik Railway Station, deep in the Arctic region. From there, the train follows the historic Ofoten Line, passing snowy mountains, frozen landscapes, and peaceful fjords glowing under the night sky. Along the way, the train stops at Bjornfjell and Katterat Station. Here, passengers can step outside, warm up by a bonfire, enjoy hot drinks, and listen to stories under the stars. These little moments make the journey feel cosy, calm, and almost fairytale-like.
How Much Does It Cost?
Tickets cost around €130, which is roughly Rs 13,700. Compared to many Northern Lights tours, this is quite reasonable — especially considering the comfort, views, and unique design of the train.
How To Book Your Seat
Tickets can be booked through the official website, Norwegian Travel – Northern Lights Train. Since the service runs only for a few months each year and seats are limited, it’s best to book early. Winter dates tend to fill up fast.
