22nd April – A Morning Embarkation

As the sun painted the sky with hues of dawn, my journey through the Norwegian wonders continued. The day’s agenda was etched with the promise of an extraordinary voyage on the Flåmsbana train and an enchanting fjord cruise, meticulously arranged the night before. The train adventure awaited with a morning departure, while the fjord promised its delights in the afternoon, punctuated by a shuttle bus to Gudvangen port.

Flåmsbana Train: A Journey Through Peaks and Valleys

The Flåmsbana train ride, an epitome of awe-inspiring railway engineering, was set to unfold. With the echoes of a hearty farewell to my cozy accommodation, I made my way to the heart of Flåm, eager to board the train that would ascend to the lofty Myrdal station, standing proudly at 867 meters above sea level. The journey, a visual symphony, began with the former rail station building housing the Flåm Railway Museum.

From Flåm to Myrdal: Nature’s Extravaganza

The train’s rhythmic chug resonated with promises of unparalleled beauty as it wound its way through the captivating landscape. Accompanied by an informative audio guide, the Flåmsbana train traversed mountainsides, danced alongside waterfalls, and delved into the depths of 20 mesmerizing tunnels. Each turn of the track, a testament to the sublime beauty of Norway, became a chapter in the unfolding tale of my dream come true.

Practical Tips for the Journey:

For those contemplating this remarkable journey, it’s essential to check the timetable and secure tickets in advance. The anticipation builds as you prepare for the enchanting ride through the heart of nature’s grandeur.

A Symphony of Mountains, Waterfalls, and Snow-Kissed Towns

My dream unfurled before me as the train embraced the serenity of snow-capped peaks, made pit stops by picturesque waterfalls, and traversed charming towns cradled in the arms of higher altitudes. Each frame was a postcard-worthy tableau, a visual feast that invited me to fall in love with the soul-stirring landscapes of Norway.

Experience the Flåmsbana Train: A Tale of Mountains, Tunnels, and Nature’s Symphony.

21st April – A Journey through the Fjords

As the echoes of the Flåmsbana train journey began to settle, a new chapter of adventure was etched on the horizon: the spellbinding Fjord Cruise from Flam. This leg of the expedition promised to be the pièce de résistance, a UNESCO World Heritage site experience that would etch itself into the tapestry of my memories.

Fjord Tours in Flam: A Tapestry of Seasons

The fjord cruise, set against the majestic backdrop of Nærøyfjord, unfolded as a visual symphony. This UNESCO World Heritage site, wrapped in the arms of nature, is a testament to the beauty that each season bestows upon it. From the vibrant colors of spring, adorned with flowers and greenery, to the serene blanket of ice in winter, and the enchanting long nights of summer, every nuance of the landscape has a story to tell.

Choosing the Starting Point: Flam or Gudvangen

With the Flåmsbana train journey complete, I eagerly awaited the next leg – a shuttle bus to Gudvangen for the fjord cruise. The choice of departure points, whether Flam or Gudvangen, added a layer of flexibility to the experience.

Fjord Cruise: A Journey Through Majesty

As the fjord cruise set sail, a panoramic feast of mountains, waterfalls, and landscapes unfolded. The cool breeze embraced the voyage, inviting me to venture onto the decks to witness nature’s spectacle firsthand. The cruise boasted both indoor lounges, offering respite from the chilly wind, and open decks for those seeking an adventurous escapade.

Memorable Encounters: A Café, Selfies, and Familiar Faces

Inside the lounge, a quaint café provided the perfect retreat. Here, serendipity played its part, as I encountered staff who harbored a special affection for Indians. Selfies became the order of the day, capturing moments that transcended cultural boundaries. One staff member, a doppelganger of Bollywood actor Akshaye Khanna, added a touch of humor and familiarity to the Norwegian adventure.

21st April – A Reverent Easter Sunday

In the backdrop of this grand voyage, Easter Sunday unfolded. The somberness of the holy weekend draped the surroundings, leading to a quiet reflection. Though the closures limited traditional Easter services, a silent prayer outside the closed church marked a moment of personal reverence. The culmination of my fasting journey was celebrated with a delightful meal of Prawns Fried Rice and egg in an Asian cuisine restaurant.

The fjord cruise, an odyssey through nature’s masterpiece, had woven its magic, leaving an indelible mark on the canvas of my Norway adventure.

21^st April –As it was Easter Sunday – Due to holy weekend, everything was closed and I missed the church service.  But I prayed in front of the church and I completed my fast successfully. Hereafter, I can eat non-vegetarian and had my food Prawns Fried rice and egg in one of the Asian cuisine restaurants.

The Midnight Chronicles: Bergen to Tromso

Embarking on a nocturnal journey from Bergen to Tromso, my road trip saga unfolded new chapters in the tapestry of Norwegian adventures. Little did I anticipate that the night would weave tales of unexpected thrills and resilience.

Lonely Tunnels and Unexpected Stops

The rhythmic hum of tires against the asphalt accompanied me as I navigated through the tunnels and twists of the Norwegian highways. However, fate had a different narrative in store for this leg of the journey. Amidst the darkness, my car found itself in the embrace of a tunnel, only to come to a halt. A mysterious, silent pause settled in, and I found myself alone in the cavernous expanse.

The Midnight Vigil

As minutes stretched into an hour, a solitary sentinel in the depths of the tunnel, I remained calm, hopeful that a beacon of help would emerge. A distant vehicle, like a lighthouse in the sea of darkness, finally came into view. Signals exchanged, and I was beckoned to follow, a lone traveler guided through the subterranean labyrinth. In this intriguing twist of fate, I discovered that Norway’s tunnels undergo renovations and checks during the quiet hours of the night, an endeavor to ensure seamless traffic flow during the day.

Nighttime Diversions and Fatigue

Resuming the journey, diversions due to road constructions and encounters with more tunnels marked the night with a unique blend of worry and weariness. The clock ticked past midnight, and the challenge of the road unfolded with each passing kilometer.

Resilience in the Wee Hours

With the night draped around me, and the weariness of the road etched on my face, I navigated through the Norwegian night. The long hours of driving culminated in a sigh of relief as I reached the rental car parking at Bergen airport. Keys dropped off, the echo of engines silenced, and I embraced a moment of reprieve.

Towards New Horizons: Bergen to Tromso Flight

As the dawn painted the skies with hues of anticipation, I moved from the asphalt realm to the airy skies. On-time, I found myself in the bustling corridors of Bergen airport, a transition from the solitude of the road to the buzz of the airport terminals. Checked-in and ready for the 7:55 am departure to Tromso, the next chapter awaited.

The night’s odyssey had unveiled unexpected challenges, but the resilient spirit prevailed. From lonely tunnels to the checkered skies, the journey from Bergen to Tromso had become a testament to the unpredictability and tenacity that define the essence of travel.

Adventure Continues : Tromso: Arctic Wonderland Of Northern Norway