1. Introduction – A Dream Born in the Fields of Bihar
My name is Neelam Sharma, and I come from a small village in Bihar, India. Growing up surrounded by paddy fields and mango orchards, Norway always felt like a faraway fantasy—a land of snow-covered mountains, midnight sun, and shimmering green Northern Lights. I used to see pictures of the fjords and wonder if they were even real.
But life has a funny way of turning dreams into reality. One evening, while scrolling through travel blogs, I saw a budget airline deal to Norway from Delhi. My heart started racing. Could a girl from rural Bihar really travel across continents to see the Land of the Midnight Sun? After months of planning, saving, and convincing my family, I finally said yes.
2. Planning & Preparation – From Bihar to Oslo
Visa Process
Applying for a Norway Schengen Visa was my first challenge. The paperwork was overwhelming—bank statements, travel insurance, flight bookings, and hotel reservations. I had to travel to Delhi for my biometrics. It was stressful, but the staff at the embassy were polite.
Tip for Indian Travelers: Apply at least two months before your travel date to avoid last-minute stress.
Packing
Coming from Bihar, I had never experienced sub-zero temperatures. So I invested in thermal wear, a down jacket, snow boots, gloves, and a woolen cap. I also carried some instant noodles and homemade theplas, because I had heard food in Norway is expensive.
Flights
My route was Patna → Delhi → Doha → Oslo. The entire journey took almost 20 hours, but I was buzzing with excitement.
3. Arrival in Oslo – First Impressions
The moment I stepped out of Oslo Airport (Gardermoen), the crisp air hit my face. It was so clean and fresh, nothing like the crowded and humid cities I was used to. The airport was modern, well-organized, and people spoke fluent English.
First good moment: A kind Norwegian woman helped me buy my airport train ticket to Oslo Central.
First bad moment: I accidentally paid extra because I didn’t understand the ticket machine properly. A small loss, but a learning moment.
4. Exploring Oslo – The Modern Meets the Historical
Day 1: Vigeland Sculpture Park
Over 200 granite and bronze sculptures in one park! Each statue told a story about human life—birth, love, struggle, and death.
Day 2: Viking Ship Museum
Seeing real Viking ships from over 1,000 years ago was mind-blowing. I imagined fierce warriors sailing through icy waters.
Day 3: Royal Palace & Akershus Fortress
The Royal Palace guards were so disciplined, and Akershus Fortress offered stunning views of the harbor.
Day 4: Aker Brygge
A lively waterfront with cafes and shops. I tried Norwegian waffles with brown cheese—sweet and salty at the same time!
Bad Experience: Food prices were shocking. A simple coffee cost ₹500 (around 60 NOK). I quickly learned to shop from supermarkets like Rema 1000.
5. The Scenic Train Journey to Bergen
The Oslo to Bergen train is called one of the most beautiful in the world. And it’s true—the journey took me through snow-covered plateaus, waterfalls, and tiny villages. I couldn’t stop taking pictures. At one point, the train passed through Hardangervidda Plateau, and everything looked like a painting.
6. Bergen & the Fjords – Nature’s Masterpiece
Bergen felt like a fairy-tale town with colorful wooden houses in Bryggen Wharf. I wandered through the fish market, where I saw salmon, cod, and even whale meat. I didn’t eat whale (felt guilty), but the salmon sandwich was fresh and delicious.
Fjord Cruise: This was the highlight. Sailing through Sognefjord, surrounded by steep cliffs and waterfalls, I felt so small yet so alive.
Bad Experience: It rained a lot in Bergen. I was drenched even with an umbrella. Always carry waterproof gear here.
7. The Magical Lofoten Islands
Getting to Lofoten was an adventure—flight to Bodø, then a ferry ride. The islands were straight out of a dream: fishing villages, red wooden cabins, turquoise waters, and jagged mountains.
Midnight Sun: In summer, the sun never sets completely. Walking at midnight under golden light was surreal.
Food: I tried stockfish, which had a strong smell but was surprisingly tasty.
8. Tromsø & the Northern Lights
Tromsø is known as the Gateway to the Arctic. I joined a Northern Lights tour with a small group. We drove for hours, chasing clear skies, and then… it happened. Green, purple, and pink lights danced across the sky. I cried—it was pure magic.
Bad Experience: It was -10°C, and I underestimated the cold. My hands froze even with gloves. Lesson learned: layer up more than you think you need.
9. Norwegian Culture & Food
Culture: Norwegians are polite but reserved. They value personal space. Don’t expect small talk with strangers like in India.
Food Highlights:
- Salmon in every form—grilled, smoked, raw
- Brunost (brown cheese) – sweet caramel flavor
- Kjøttkaker – Norwegian meatballs with gravy
- Fresh berries with cream
Tip: If you’re vegetarian, carry snacks from India.
10. Challenges as an Indian Woman Traveler
- Weather shock: Even in summer, nights were cold.
- Food prices: Norway is expensive. Cooking your own meals can save a lot.
- Language barrier: Most people speak English, but rural areas might be harder.
- Transportation: Efficient but pricey. Consider travel passes.
11. Budget & Money-Saving Tips for Norway
- Book flights and trains early for discounts.
- Stay in hostels or Airbnb.
- Use supermarket ready-meals instead of restaurants.
- Walk or use public transport day passes.
- Travel in groups to split costs.
12. Final Thoughts & Recommendations
Norway is unlike anywhere I’ve ever been. From Oslo’s modern charm to Bergen’s fairy-tale harbor, from the Lofoten Islands’ magic to Tromsø’s Northern Lights, it felt like stepping into a living postcard.
Yes, it’s expensive and sometimes challenging, but the beauty and serenity are worth every rupee I spent. For any Indian traveler, especially from small towns like mine, Norway will change the way you see the world.
