Kiruna is the northernmost town in Sweden, situated in the province called Lapland. The municipality belongs to the Norrbotten County.
Kiruna is a beautiful land, filled with snow during most part of the year. This land experiences extreme sunlight variations. During mid-summer the sun never sets and during peak winter its stays dark all day. Such extreme weather and light conditions have not kept kirunites to just stay at home. Instead they are way more active, well planned and organised. The small but sublime town has a functional airport, a good railway system, well organised communities and wonderful roads. The landscapes are stunningly spectacular no matter what time of the year it is.
Kiruna’s local tribes called Sami, lived there before the land was found in 1900. This town is known world wide for its Iron ore mining. LKAB, one of the largest Iron mining company is also co-owned by the government of Sweden. They are the second largest contributors of Iron to the world. The presence of Iron ore was known several centuries back to the Sami’s. Mining was a difficult process until the 19th century due to the presence of large phosphorus deposits on the Iron ore.
Most tourists from around the world, arrive here during January/February when it is very dark and the winter is at its peak. This is the best time to view the “Northern Lights”. The magic of nature and atmosphere seen at its best.
The Ice-Hotel of Jukkasjärvi is one of the world famous destinations. This is another retreat for tourists who arrive here. I witnessed a wedding during my visit, probably because it is one of the most unique man made places on the planet.
The sculptures on ice are rebuilt every year. They are a treat to the eyes. Human creativity at its best!
Other exciting experiences in Kiruna are dog-sledding and snow mobile tours. The forest through which the Alaskan husky dogs pull your carriage looks like the land of the Narnia. The stunning beauty of the lapland and the deadly cold temperatures are experienced at its peak during these tours. This will be a one of the kind episode in your life.
During my visit to Kiruna I managed to visit the LKAB, the Ice Hotel,Kiruna Church, both snow mobile and dog sledding tours. All photographs shown in this article are taken by me. I stayed at Abisko tourist homes. A beautiful place to stay. If you are lucky, you will get to see the northern lights right out of your window from these homes.
If you decide to visit Sweden and you think the above experiences is something that you wish to have in your life. I highly recommend you to visit Kiruna.
