For many travellers, watching the Northern Lights dance across a pitch-black Arctic sky is a once-in-a-lifetime dream. And while places like Finland, Iceland, and Norway often steal the spotlight, they come with steep price tags and complicated visa procedures.
Enter Murmansk, Russia — an underrated yet incredibly rewarding destination that offers Aurora magic without the Nordic cost. If you’re looking for the cheapest and easiest way to see the Northern Lights, Murmansk should be at the top of your list.
How to Get to Murmansk
Located above the Arctic Circle, Murmansk is surprisingly well connected and easy to reach.
Most travellers fly into Moscow or St. Petersburg, from where a direct flight takes just 2.5 hours to Murmansk Airport (MMK). Once you land, the city centre is only 30 minutes away by taxi or shuttle.
Tip: If you’re travelling during peak Aurora season (October–March), book domestic flights early, as prices rise and seats sell out quickly.
Why Choose Murmansk for Aurora Watching?
Murmansk isn’t just another cold northern city — it is the world’s largest city located north of the Arctic Circle, making it one of the best locations to witness the Aurora Borealis in Russia.
Here’s why travellers love it:
- Easy and fast visa process for Indians — Russia now offers e-visa options, making paperwork simple and stress-free.
- Budget-friendly Murmansk tour packages, stays, and activities.
- High chances of seeing the Northern Lights — even from inside the city!
- Convenient access — flights and trains from Moscow and St. Petersburg operate daily.
For anyone looking for a Murmansk tour from India, the convenience truly stands out.
Cost Breakdown: How Affordable is Murmansk?
One of the biggest reasons Murmansk is gaining popularity is its excellent value for money. Here is what to expect while planning your Northern Lights tour Russia:
Flights
- One-way flight from Moscow to Murmansk starts at ~INR 9,000
Accommodation
- Hotels start from INR 5,000/night depending on the category
- Glass igloos start from INR 20,000/night — slightly expensive but a must-do for one unforgettable night
Aurora Tours
- Northern Lights tours start from INR 7,500
Visa
- Indian travellers can apply for an online e-visa
- Cost: ~INR 5,000
- Processing: Fast, simple, and far easier than Schengen
This makes the Murmansk Northern Lights tour price significantly cheaper compared to Finland or Norway — without compromising on the experience.
Where to See the Northern Lights in Murmansk
While the Aurora Borealis Murmansk is often visible within the city, heading slightly outside offers clearer skies and stronger colours.
Local guides track the Murmansk Northern Lights forecast and decide the direction based on nightly predictions. The four most popular routes include:
- West – towards Pechenga and Norwegian Kirkenes
- Southwest – Verhnetulomsky
- South – Olenegorsk
- East – Teriberka, famous for its Arctic coastline and a must-see spot for anyone booking a Teriberka tour package
For a dreamy experience, consider staying in glass igloos or forest cabins away from the city lights — the perfect setting for Aurora watching.
Best Time to See the Northern Lights in Murmansk
Wondering about the best time to visit Murmansk for the Northern Lights? The Aurora season extends from October to March.
Here’s what to expect:
October–November
Good chances of Auroras; snowfall is minimal, so winter activities are limited.
December
A strong month, but late December to mid-January sees low solar activity due to polar nights, reducing Aurora visibility. Despite this, it’s a popular holiday time.
January–March
The peak season for the Northern Lights in Russia. Heavy snow, clear skies, and long nights make this the best period.
Pro tip: The colder and darker it is, the stronger your chances of catching the Aurora!
Things to Do in Murmansk Beyond the Lights
Your Murmansk group tour doesn’t end when the night sky fades. The Arctic offers thrilling daytime adventures:
- Snowmobiling across frozen landscapes
- Arctic floating in insulated suits
- Reindeer sledding and Sami cultural village visits
- Husky farm visits with sled rides
- Authentic Arctic cuisine, including hearty Russian stews and seafood
There’s much more to a Murmansk tour package than just Aurora hunting.
What to Pack for Your Russia Aurora Tour
The Arctic is beautiful — but brutally cold. Temperatures in Murmansk can drop to –10°C to –20°C, with winds making it feel even lower.
To make the most of your trip, pack smart:
Essential Packing List
- Thermal base layers (top + bottom)
- Warm hoodies, sweaters, and sweatshirts
- Thick insulated jacket or long windproof coat
- Wool hat, scarf, and waterproof gloves
- Waterproof boots + wool/thermal socks
- Waterproof pants for snow activities
- Sunglasses (snow glare is real!)
- Sunscreen & lip balm
- Basic medications + sanitizer
- Hand warmers (optional but useful)
Rule #1: Layering is everything.
Conclusion
If you’re dreaming of the Northern Lights but don’t want the stress of sky-high budgets or complicated visas, Murmansk is the perfect solution. It’s affordable, easy to reach, beginner-friendly, and offers some of the best Aurora Borealis Russia experiences you can find anywhere.
From e-visa convenience to pocket-friendly tours, Murmansk makes ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list easy, hassle-free, and budget friendly.
Ready to chase the Aurora?
Check out our upcoming Northern Lights group trips to Russia and experience the magic of Murmansk for yourself!
