ROVANIEMI – SAARISELKÄ (GLASS IGLOO) (BREAKFAST ON TRAIN - LOCAL DINNER)

This morning begins with a delightful breakfast at the cozy bistro on board the Santa Claus Express, setting the tone for a magical day ahead. As the train rolls into Rovaniemi in the early hours, the journey continues toward the enchanting Ranua Arctic Zoo. Nestled in the heart of Lapland, this wildlife park offers an incredible opportunity to observe a variety of Arctic animals and birds in settings that closely resemble their natural habitats. From majestic polar bears and graceful reindeers to arctic foxes, wild boars, and soaring eagles, the zoo provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

After spending time immersed in the Arctic wilderness, the adventure proceeds to one of the most iconic places in the region—the Santa Claus Village. Located right on the Arctic Circle, this festive haven is a dream come true for those who cherish the magic of Christmas. Meet the jolly old Santa Claus himself and his cheerful elves, explore charming souvenir and handicraft shops brimming with local treasures, and send a special postcard stamped from Santa’s main post office to loved ones back home.

As the afternoon draws to a close, the journey resumes with a scenic drive to Saariselkä, a tranquil resort village nestled in the northern reaches of Finland, approximately four hours from Rovaniemi. Known for its stunning natural surroundings and peaceful atmosphere, Saariselkä attracts travelers from all over the globe seeking serenity and a deeper connection with nature.

Upon arrival, the experience becomes even more magical with an overnight stay in a glass igloo. These unique accommodations allow guests to marvel at the starlit sky from the warmth and comfort of their beds, offering an intimate and awe-inspiring encounter with the Arctic Light. The day concludes with a delicious three-course local dinner, enjoyed in the serene ambiance of the Finnish wilderness, followed by a restful night under the stars in the cozy glass igloo at Saariselkä.

SAARISELKA – IVALO – ALTA (BREAKFAST – LOCAL DINNER)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you have the option to embark on a thrilling husky sled ride, an experience that allows you to truly immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of Lapland. As you glide through the snow-covered landscapes, you’ll find yourself enchanted by the serenity of the wilderness, where the only sounds are the rhythmic panting of the huskies and the gentle swish of the sled runners across the snow. It’s a magical moment that captures the essence of Lapland’s untouched natural charm.

Following this optional adventure, it’s time to check out from the hotel and begin the journey towards Alta, a picturesque town located on Norway’s northern coast, nestled at the head of the Alta Fjord. En route, a visit to the majestic Lake Inari in Ivalo offers a glimpse into the region’s natural grandeur. Lake Inari is not only the largest lake in Sápmi but also ranks as the third-largest lake in all of Finland. Spanning approximately 80 kilometers in length and stretching up to 40 kilometers in width, the lake covers an impressive area of 1,102 square kilometers and reaches depths of up to 200 feet (61 meters). It is nourished by the Ivalo River from the southwest and flows out through the Paats River on the eastern side, eventually emptying into the Arctic Ocean.

As the day draws to a close and you arrive in Alta, a delicious dinner awaits, offering a warm welcome to this northern haven. The night concludes with a restful overnight stay, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day’s memorable experiences.

ALTA – HAMMERFEST – ALTA (BREAKFAST – LOCAL DINNER)

Today, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our journey toward Hammerfest, a captivating destination recognized as the northernmost town in the world. Situated on the stark yet stunning island of Kvaløya, along the remote northwestern coast of Norway, Hammerfest is a place where the raw beauty of the Arctic truly comes to life. The drive itself offers a mesmerizing view of Norway's dramatic landscapes, as we move further into the Arctic wilderness.

Upon our arrival, we set out to explore the town through a guided city tour. Hammerfest holds a unique charm and historical significance. It serves as the gateway to the vast and icy expanse of the Barents Sea and the Arctic Ocean, a location that has long played a critical role in Arctic expeditions and exploration. Located more than 600 miles above the Arctic Circle, Hammerfest not only carries the title of the world’s northernmost town but also enjoys the status of being one of the most frequently visited places in northern Norway. Its quaint charm, polar history, and breathtaking surroundings make it an unforgettable stop on our northern adventure.

As the day winds down, we begin our return journey to Alta. Once back, a warm and comforting dinner awaits, followed by a relaxing overnight stay at the hotel, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

ALTA – TROMSO (BREAKFAST – LOCAL DINNER)

Today, after finishing our breakfast, we will embark on our journey to Tromsø, a charming town often referred to as “the Paris of the North.” This title reflects not only its lively cultural scene but also the warmth and beauty that this Arctic destination exudes. Tromsø is world-renowned for offering one of the best vantage points to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. On clear nights, the auroras here can be so vivid and intense that they’re sometimes visible right from the heart of the town—even from the comfort of your hotel room.

As we arrive in Tromsø, the crisp Arctic air and the serene surroundings will welcome us into this magical landscape.

We will proceed to check in at our hotel, where you can take a moment to relax and soak in the unique ambience of the place. The evening will conclude with a delightful dinner, after which we will settle in for the night, resting up for the unforgettable experiences that await us in this enchanting northern haven.

TROMSO –ABISKO - KIRUNA (PACKED BREAKFAST – LOCAL DINNER)

In the early morning, we check out from the hotel and begin our city tour of Tromsø. With packed breakfast in hand, we set off to explore the heart of this Arctic city, focusing on the area within its original borders established in 1794

— stretching from Strandtorget in the south to Skansen in the north. Over the past 220 years, Tromsø has grown into a vibrant and culturally rich destination, shaped by its unique history and remarkable individuals. As we move through the city, we encounter a captivating blend of historical landmarks, statues, busts, and murals — each narrating stories of the people who shaped their destinies in this remote yet thriving Arctic environment. Among these are tributes to iconic figures such as Roald Amundsen, the famed polar explorer, as well as local legends like Wanny Woldstad, the first female hunter in Svalbard, and Henry Rudi, affectionately known as the polar bear king.

After exploring Tromsø, we continue our journey en route to Abisko National Park. Nestled in the alpine heart of Lapland, this stunning national park is a haven of natural beauty where towering mountains surround the picturesque Abiskodalen valley. In spring and summer, the area bursts into life with alpine meadows in full bloom, offering a scenic treat and a glimpse into Sweden’s pristine wilderness.

Our day’s adventure continues as we proceed toward Kiruna, Sweden’s northernmost town, travelling through landscapes that seem untouched by time, dotted with forests, lakes, and dramatic mountain ranges. Kiruna is not only known for its Arctic charm but also for housing the world’s largest underground iron ore mine, which has been in operation since 1898 and continues to play a crucial role in Sweden’s economy.Upon reaching Kiruna, we check in to our hotel, unwind from the day’s journey, enjoy a warm dinner, and settle in for an overnight stay.

KIRUNA – ROVANIEMI (BREAKFAST – INDIAN DINNER)

After breakfast, the day begins with a delightful walking tour through the charming town of Kiruna. Nestled in the far north of Sweden, Kiruna is known for its unique blend of nature, architecture, and culture. As we stroll through its peaceful streets, our first stop is the iconic Kiruna Church. Built in the early 20th century, this large wooden church stands out for its Gothic Revival architecture, while its interiors are beautifully adorned with an art nouveau altar that adds a touch of elegance and spiritual grace to the space. The church, often described as one of Sweden’s most beautiful buildings, offers a serene and inspiring atmosphere.

As the tour continues, we’ll explore other important landmarks, including the Kiruna Town Hall and its surrounding areas. These sites not only offer a glimpse into the town’s civic life but also reflect the architectural and cultural evolution of this northern settlement, which is currently undergoing a fascinating relocation process due to mining activity beneath the ground.

Later in the day, we head to one of the most iconic destinations in the Arctic – the Ice Hotel. A marvel of creativity and craftsmanship, this extraordinary structure is rebuilt every winter using ice and snow from the nearby Torne River. Each year, new artists from around the world contribute to its design, turning it into a unique experience season after season. With its intricate sculptures, glistening ice rooms, and awe-inspiring atmosphere, the Ice Hotel is more than just a place to stay – it’s a piece of living art that captures the spirit of the Arctic magically.

From here, we continue our journey across the border into Finland, making our way to the enchanting town of Rovaniemi – the official hometown of Santa Claus. Upon arrival, we’ll unwind with a delicious Indian dinner, offering familiar flavors and a warm meal after a day of exploring in the cold. The day ends with a comfortable overnight stay at a hotel in Rovaniemi, giving you time to relax .

ROVANIEMI – HELSINKI – DELHI (BREAKFAST – MEAL ONBOARD)

Today, begin your morning at a leisurely pace with a relaxed breakfast, savoring the final moments of your stay in this beautiful destination. There's no need to rush—take your time to enjoy the calm surroundings and perhaps reflect on the experiences of your trip. After breakfast, prepare for departure and check out of the hotel. Once you're ready, make your way to Rovaniemi Airport, where you'll board your flight bound for Delhi, with a transit through Helsinki. As you journey onward, carry with you the memories and warmth of your travels.