Overview
Greenland Travel Guide for Indian Travelers | Best Time, Northern Lights & Cost
Greenland Travel Guide for Indian Travelers
Your quick guide to Greenland: overview, why visit, best time, key highlights, transport, packages & FAQs.
Overview
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is an Arctic wonderland of glaciers, icebergs and Inuit culture. Though part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it has its own government and traditions. For Indian travelers, it offers rare adventures: Northern Lights, dog sledding, iceberg cruises and remote Arctic towns — a true once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Why Visit Greenland
Nature: glaciers, fjords, mountains, ice sheets.
Northern Lights: best viewed Sep–Mar.
Adventure: dog sledding, hiking, whale watching, kayaking among icebergs.
Culture: Inuit traditions, museums, Arctic lifestyle.
Visa Requirements
Greenland requires a special Danish visa (not covered automatically by Schengen). Apply via Danish consulate/VFS. Processing ~20 working days.
Best Time to Visit
Jun–Sep: Midnight Sun, iceberg cruises, hiking.
Sep–Mar: Northern Lights, winter sports, dog sledding.
Key Highlights
Ilulissat Icefjord (UNESCO).
Nuuk (capital, museums, modern Inuit culture).
Disko Bay (icebergs & whale watching).
Kangerlussuaq (gateway to the ice cap).
East Greenland (remote villages, aurora skies).
Suggested Duration
5–7 days: Ilulissat + Nuuk.
8–10 days: Ilulissat → Disko Bay → Nuuk → Kangerlussuaq.
Food Options
Seafood (shrimp, halibut, cod), Arctic char, reindeer, lamb. Limited Indian food; vegetarian options available in hotels and bigger towns.
Transport
No railways/roads between towns — travel is by domestic flights or ferries.
Flights: Copenhagen ↔ Nuuk/Ilulissat; Reykjavik ↔ Nuuk.
Arctic cruises popular in summer.
Shopping Highlights
Inuit handicrafts, sealskin items, ice-inspired jewellery.
Travel Tips
Carry layered clothing for extreme Arctic conditions.
Book flights & cruises well in advance.
Expect high prices due to remoteness.
Documents & Insurance
Special visa required + travel insurance with Arctic coverage.
Health & Safety
Safe destination; emergency services limited in remote areas. Emergency number: 112.
Time Zone & Flight Duration
GMT (like Iceland). Flights: India → Copenhagen (~9 hrs) → Nuuk (~5 hrs).
Connectivity & SIM
Provider: Tusass (Tele Greenland). Limited coverage outside towns. Wi-Fi available in hotels.
Festivals & Events
Nuuk Snow Festival (Mar).
National Day (21 June).
Arctic Sounds Music Festival (Nov).
Do’s & Don’ts
✔ Do: Respect Inuit traditions & environment.
✔ Do: Prepare for remote travel — few facilities outside towns.
✘ Don’t: Expect budget travel — Greenland is expensive.
✘ Don’t: Venture onto ice alone — always use guides.
Average Costs & Budgeting
6–8 days: ₹4.5–5.5 lakhs per person.
9–12 days: ₹6.0–7.0 lakhs per person.
Luxury trips: ₹8.0 lakhs+ per person (cruises, heli-tours).
Suggested Tour Packages
Greenland Icefjord Adventure — 8N/9D
Greenland Northern Lights Escape — 7N/8D
FAQs
Q: Do I need a separate visa for Greenland? Yes — a special Danish visa is required.
Q: Can I see the Northern Lights? Yes, Sep–Mar is best.
Q: How do I reach Greenland? Via Copenhagen or Reykjavik by flight.
Q: Is vegetarian food available? Limited, but hotels in Nuuk/Ilulissat offer options.
Planning a Greenland trip? Contact Live Traveller for Arctic tours, Ilulissat Icefjord cruises and Northern Lights packages.
Nordic Extensions
Iceland — volcanoes, geysers & waterfalls.
Denmark — Copenhagen & castles (gateway to Greenland).
