There are certain regions on earth where the sun rises at midnight. Located above the Arctic Circle, these places are referred to as the ‘Lands of the Midnight Sun’. Here are some among these destinations which could be included in the bucket list of travellers.
Alaska
This is the only area in the United States where the sun shines at midnight. Fairbanks in Alaska is renowned as the place where the stunning sight of the sun rising from the horizon can be enjoyed. Various guided tours are available to experience the sunrise better, of which ‘Midnight sun arctic circle drive’ is considered the most adventurous. The tour takes travellers along Fairbanks and the Dalton Highway. Other interesting spots on the route are Arctic Tundra and Alaska pipeline.
Canada
Canada is another place in North America where the midnight sun appears and the city of Inuvik in the country is popular for amazing views of the sun as well as related activities. The ideal time to plan a visit to Inuvik is during January, when the place hosts its biggest festival coinciding with the first sunrise after a total darkness of 30 days.
Greenland
Yet another place in the northern hemisphere where the midnight sun can be seen, Greenland has made elaborate arrangements to welcome travellers. In fact, much more development related to tourism has taken place in Greenland compared to the nearby Iceland.
The best means to enjoy the midnight sun in Greenland is to take a specially-arranged cruise which offers an indescribable sight of the sunrays spreading across the icy mountains in the horizon and blue waters.
Russia
‘White nights festival’ at St Petersburg in Russia celebrates the midnight sun and should never be missed during a trip to the country. Visitors can enjoy the unique experience of the sun illuminating the big city even at midnight. By taking the ‘Sun bike tour’, visitors to St Petersburg can watch attractions such as Senate Square, Trinity Bridge and Church of Savior on the Spilled Blood in the sunlight at night.
Sweden, Norway
Another two countries well-known as ‘Lands of Midnight Sun’ are Sweden and Norway. Abisko in Sweden is the centre of Aurora Skystation, where you can enjoy the sight of the northern lights when the sun is below the horizon.
Meanwhile, in the northern parts of Norway, the sun’s appearance during midnight is more dramatic. Sometimes, the sun does not set for up to four months in these regions. Among the must-visit destinations in Norway is Svalbard islands on the northern part of the mainland where whales could be seen swimming in the waters under the midnight sun.
In short, a visit to these destinations in the Arctic Circle offers an opportunity to experience a day that never ends.