7 places in Russia where you can see the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights can be seen on clear, frosty nights from September through March. It is most clearly visible above the Arctic Circle, far from big cities. The glow comes in a variety of colors and shades, from green to purple. We’ve highlighted where it can be spotted in Russia.

1. Teriberka, Murmansk Region

The most popular place is the old fishing village of Teriberka on the shores of the Barents Sea. It is located 130 kilometers north of Murmansk, on the 69th parallel. In Murmansk, it is difficult to see the Northern Lights, because of the bright city lights, but, in its environs, it is very spectacular. Besides, it is easy to get here with a tour or on your own and there are places to stay overnight and have a meal. 

2. Kirovsk, Murmansk Region

This small town is the closest town to the Khibiny Mountains on the Kola Peninsula, a popular skiing destination. The Khibiny Mountains are located to the south of Murmansk (67th parallel) and the sky there is usually clear and bright. There is a better chance of seeing the Northern Lights either on the approach to the city or on the ski slopes. 

3. Vorkuta, Komi Republic

Europe's easternmost city is located on the 67th parallel. Vorkuta is an industrial city, where coal is mined. But, tourists go there to see the Soviet “architectural pearl of the Arctic Circle” and the Northern Lights.

4. Naryan-Mar, Nenets Autonomous Okrug

The capital of the Nenets Autonomous Okrug is located on the same latitude as Vorkuta. The Northern Lights can be seen right from the city – it is small and nothing prevents you from observing the Aurora Borealis. There, it is bright and appears early – in late August and early September. 

5. Salekhard, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug

This is the only city in the world that is located directly on the Arctic Circle. To avoid the lights interfering with observing the celestial phenomenon, it's best to do it outside the city limits. You can also see fantastic Northern Lights seen on the way to the city of Labytnangi, which stands on the opposite bank of the Ob River.

6. Norilsk, Krasnoyarsk Krai

This is the second largest city in the world above the Arctic Circle after Murmansk. It is difficult to see the Northern Lights in the city itself, but, again, they are very colorful in its environs.  

It is important to remember that only Russian citizens can freely enter Norilsk, while foreigners need a special permit.

7. Dudinka, Krasnoyarsk Krai

This port city on the Yenisei River is located 90 kilometers from Norilsk. Beautiful Northern Lights can be seen right on the approach to the city. However, in Dudinka, there is also an opportunity to observe it on the outskirts, where there are no bright lights.