Question 1

What are Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis are a spectacular natural phenomenon which appear as brilliant displays of lights across the earth’s night sky. These lights are mostly visible at the highest latitudes near the Northern hemisphere and appear as neon glows, moving arcs or as thin clouds in the sky.
The word ‘Aurora’ is Latin for sunrise as well as the name of the Roman Goddess of the dawn, and ‘Borealis’ is the Greek name for the north wind.

Question 2

Why do the Northern Lights appear?

Accepted Answer

All right, let’s put our science hats on! The Northern Lights are produced when the solar wind, which is made up of charged particles from the sun interacts with our atmosphere. The charged particles on collision with atoms and molecules in the earth’s atmosphere release little photons of light, which appear as rays of illuminated glowing neon lights like throwing dye in the sky - The Northern Lights. The science behind this phenomenon is indeed very fascinating and we recommend you to experience this in person on a Northern Light tour with Veena World.

Question 3

In what colors do the Northern Lights appear?

Accepted Answer

The Northern Lights appear in different colors depending on the gases with which the solar particles collide. Generally, they appear in colors of green, yellow, blue, purple, pink, and red. 
The most common color is green, due to the impact of solar particles with oxygen atoms. Blue, purple, and pink are rarer to see and are associated with solar particles colliding with nitrogen atoms. Red is the rarest color to see and is associated with solar particles hitting oxygen atoms but at a higher altitude above 150 miles.

Question 4

When is the best time to witness Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

In order to see aurora, the sky must be dark, clear and with high solar activity. The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the Aurora season that is from late August to March in the Northern Hemisphere. During this time, the Arctic sky is dark enough for the Northern Lights to be visible in the right conditions. One has to be prepared to stay up late to witness the grandeur of the northern lights, as these are best viewed anytime from midnight up to sunrise.

Question 5

Which are the best places to see the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

The best places to see the northern lights are countries located in the far northern hemisphere like Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Russia and Siberia. 
In the southern hemisphere this phenomenon is known as Aurora Australis, the southern lights, which are best viewed from Antarctica and parts of New Zealand in the months of March to September.

Question 6

How long do the Northern lights appear in the sky on a given night?

Accepted Answer

This fantastic natural display of light can last from 5 minutes to all night long, depending on the magnitude of the incoming solar winds.

Question 7

Do the Northern Lights harm us in any way?

Accepted Answer

The Northern Lights occur so high up in the atmosphere that they don’t pose any threat to people watching them from the ground.

Question 8

How to photograph Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

If you are like most of us, you probably want to capture the Northern Lights in pictures, after all just telling friends that you saw something never has quite the same effect as posting your travel pictures on social media. 
Some tips that we recommend are: A sturdy tripod, a DSLR camera with adjustable manual mode, latest smartphone with a good camera and inbuilt night mode.
All cameras and lenses will give different results, so a bit of trial and error is needed to find out what works best for you. It’s also important to remember that no two auroras are the same. This means that settings which work one night may not work the next. But don’t let that put you off; experimenting with different settings and seeing the range of results they produce is all part of the fun. But remember to ditch the camera once in a while and remember to take it all in!

Question 9

What are some interesting local legends surrounding this phenomenon?

Accepted Answer

The Northern Lights have been the source of many myths and legends since ancient times. Some of the most popular are:
Most of the Eskimo ethnical groups in North America and Greenland believed that the Northern Lights were the spirits of the dead.
Scandinavian settlers, such as those belonging to the Norse culture, believed that they were a bridge connecting the earth and the home of the Viking gods.
Sweden sees the Aurora as a sign of good news and prosperity, promising good harvests for farmers and great catches for local fishermen.
The Icelandic people have associated the lights with childbirth, believing that the lights would relieve the pain of delivery.
The Chukchi, an indigenous people living much further east from Murmansk in Russia, believe the lights are an area of heaven rarely seen, the home of those who died a violent death. Old Russian texts from the 15th century describe the northern lights as heavenly armies fighting.
Some believed that the aurora was a massive fire dragon who would descend to earth while the men of the village were away in order to allure the womenfolk.

Question 10

Why should I see the Northern Lights?

Accepted Answer

Of all the natural phenomena the world has to offer, the Northern Lights are probably the most spectacular, because to see them you need to be in the right place at the right time. This very nature of the event makes them more mystical and alluring. It is ideal for those with a passion for exploration and is bound to leave you with a feeling of accomplishment. Keeping this in mind, our expert team at Veena World has specially curated Family and Women’s special tours to Iceland and Russia for all of those wishing to tick off this once in a lifetime experience.

Question 11

Why should I consider Russia to view this majestic sight?

Accepted Answer

Russia due to its location, with the Arctic Circle crossing a large part of the country provides an ideal point to view the Northern Lights. Russia has many hotspots to witness this phenomenon and amongst them, Murmansk is one of the best ones. Most impressively, Murmansk is distinguished as the largest city above the Arctic Circle, making it a one-of-a-kind destination in the Polar Regions. When this experience is combined with the visit to Moscow and St. Petersburg, it will turn out be a great combination to explore.

Question 12

What kind of tours does Veena World offer for Russia?

Accepted Answer

Veena World is well established and most popular amongst travelers for Russia tours. It has Family and Women’s Special Group tours as well as Customized Holidays - ‘Just the way you like it!’ for individual travelers to Russia.

Question 13

Where is Russia located?

Accepted Answer

It is located partly in Eastern Europe and partly in North Asia; it borders the Arctic Ocean to the north. Russia is bordered by 14 countries, Azerbaijan, Belarus, China, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Kazakhstan, North Korea, Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, Norway, Poland, and Ukraine. It also shares maritime borders with Japan, Sweden, Turkey, and the United States. The largest country in the world, Russia constitutes one-seventh of the world's landmass and spans eight time zones.

Question 14

What is so unique about Russia?

Accepted Answer

Russia will charm you at first sight. With its rich history, colorful culture and a voracious love for arts of all kinds, this world’s largest country is a fascinating kaleidoscope of experiences. From its art to its beaches, from its soulful culinary experiences to graceful ballet shows, Russia will surprise you with the range of its offerings that puts it at par with some of the better-known holiday destinations. The mystical show of northern lights in winter and bright nights with the Midnight sun in summer, makes it a destination for every season and every reason.

Question 15

When is the best time to visit Russia?

Accepted Answer

Russia is full of surprises! It is pretty much a country of all seasons. The experiences that you can enjoy in summer or in winter will make you feel like visiting two different countries at different times.
Russia In Spring (March – May)
March is the time of melting snow, flowing streams and blooming willow. Spring flowers begin to emerge in April and May, making the parks and gardens of the cities quite beautiful. Temperature ranges from -8 °C to 19 °.  Spring is the most wonderful season with transformations and changes in everything.
Russia In Summer (June - August)
In summer, the temperatures around Russia hover between 11°C to 23°C. The days start getting longer in summer, which means you get more time for your sightseeing. Northern cities such as St. Petersburg experience ‘White Nights’ as the sun barely sets at night. Various cultural events are held throughout the city, as well as evening fireworks.
Russia In Autumn (September - November)
In Autumn, Russia exchanges its green cover for an orange coat with temperatures ranging from -3°C to 16°C. This is a good season to travel around the countryside where farmers celebrate their bounty with harvest festivals. If you’re looking to do outdoor activities, you can go hiking into the mountains or head to the beaches for water sports. The snowfall starts by mid-November and paints the canvas in various hues of white.
Russia In Winter (December - February)
The coldest time of the year in Russia, temperatures do not venture over the freezing point and remain between -15°C to -5°C. During this time, you will be rewarded with some stunning snows capes that seem like a Christmas postcard. Winter Festival sees the Christmas markets spring up, as well as a celebration of Russian winter traditions such as troika rides, ice sculptures, ice skating and Russian cuisine.  If you move further north to Murmansk, you will be treated to the best light show on earth, the Aurora Borealis.

So in a nutshell the best time to travel to Russia depends on what you want to see and enjoy. Veena World conducts tours to Russia both during winter and summer to enable you to maximize your experience to this beautiful destination.

Question 16

What should I pack when I travel to Russia?

Accepted Answer

While packing for Russia, ensure there are warm layers, body thermals, sweater/jackets, scarves, gloves, warm socks along with regular clothes that are comfortable to wear. Apart from these, do carry water resistant, warm and comfortable walking shoes, umbrella/windcheater, sun glasses, small torch, sunscreen lotion/cream, skin moisturizer, vapour rub (Vicks), insect repellents, face masks, hand sanitizer, etc. Also, carry your regular medicines with your doctor’s valid prescription and basic first aid kit. Carry sufficient cash along with your credit/debit cards for any last-minute requirements.

Question 17

Will I definitely see Northern Lights on this tour?

Accepted Answer

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon and there are many things that affect their visibility like high aurora activity, position of the sun, darkness and clear skies. Due to this unpredictable nature which is not under human control, sighting of Northern lights cannot be guaranteed. With luck, persistence and support from local experts, we have planned and designed our itineraries in a way to maximize your chances of viewing northern lights to the fullest.

Question 18

Other than Norther Lights what will I see and visit when I travel to Russia?

Accepted Answer

Veena World always designs the itinerary in a way that it covers all the major and maximum sightseeing! For our group tour ‘Russia Northern Lights’, we will visit three most important cities Moscow, St. Petersburg, Murmansk and enjoy the Great Russian Circus, visit Red Square - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, see Kremlin Walls, Tzar's Bell, Bolshoix Theatre, Palace of Congresses - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enjoy a Cable car ride to sparrow hills, visit Panorama 360- The highest observation deck in Europe on the 89th floor, ride the metro train, visit Husky farm and enjoy a husky ride, go Northern Lights Hunting, visit Museum of Russian Vodka, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Hermitage Museum, enjoy a glittering performance of the classical ballet at Russian Ballet show, visit Grand Market, Catherine Palace, enjoy the Russian Folklore show and much more!

Question 19

Is Russia a safe destination to travel to? Is it safe for female travelers?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is as safe as visiting any other European country. We have already conducted many Women’s Special tours to Russia in the past. When travelling with Veena World you need not worry at all as you will be accompanied by our Tour Manager throughout the tour and we make sure you fulfill your Russian dreams to the fullest. It is important however to be always with the group.

Question 20

Which age group can enjoy the most at Russia? Is it a good destination to travel to with kids or senior citizens?

Accepted Answer

Russia is suitable for every family and everyone in the family!
Russia is definitely a worth visiting destination. Major cities in Russia are kids friendly and there are plenty of activities and experiences to be enjoyed for all age groups. Museums and architecture in Moscow will surely fascinate you whatever you age is. Veena World offers Family and Women’s Special tours which cater to everyone in the family, from the youngest family member to the senior most.

Question 21

Is it a good honeymoon destination?

Accepted Answer

Russia will surprise and delight you, with remarkably delicious restaurants, world-class museums, incredible architecture, and some of the best hotels in the world. It is a wonderful destination to live your romantic fairytale. If you wish to live this beautiful dream with your loved one, Veena World’s Customized Holidays Team can design an itinerary as per your likings and preferences – ‘Just the way you like it!’

Question 22

What are the general inclusions of this tour?

Accepted Answer

Generally, your tour will include the following –
*Airfare – As mentioned in the itinerary
*Accommodation – On twin share basis
*Transport – air-conditioned/air-cooled coaches or small vehicles depending on number of guests in the tour.
*Meals – Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
*Sightseeing – Entry fees, Guide charges
*VISA and Travel Insurance
*Tips – Hotel, Restaurant, Driver and Guide tips
*Tour Manager Services from Mumbai to Mumbai

Question 23

How to reach Russia?

Accepted Answer

By Air:  India and Russia are connected with Mumbai and Delhi to Moscow either by direct or via flights. Veena World’s tours to Russia are inclusive of Mumbai to Mumbai air tickets.
By Road: Russia is covered by an extensive road network that is very well-maintained. Russia has multiple entry points from neighboring countries such as Belarus, China, Estonia, Finland, Georgia, Latvia, Norway and Ukraine.
By Sea: Russia enjoys direct international connectivity by boat with countries like Turkey, Finland, Estonia, Denmark, Japan and South Korea. On the Russian side Vladivostok, St. Petersburg and Moscow are the major maritime centers that receive international ferries.

Question 24

I do not reside in India, can I join the tour directly in Russia?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can definitely join the tour directly in Russia with Veena World’s Joining and Leaving Guest (J/L) option. This option allows you to book Veena World group tour without availing the services of visa, insurance and main sector air ticket to reach the first destination of the tour on day one and leave the tour on last day from the last place of sightseeing/ restaurant/ hotel/ airport to return back to your hometown. You will have to make the J/L or Ex destination tour payment in INR/ USD/ EURO or in the designated currency of the respective tour, either at any of the Veena World sales offices or directly by electronic transfer.

Question 25

What are the COVID 19 requirements to travel to Russia?

Accepted Answer

As per the current norms, visitors from India must present a negative RT-PCR (NAAT) test taken 72 hours before departing to Russia.
In accordance with health and disease control-related regulations in force in the Russian Federation, from 28 April 2021 all passengers arriving from India shall be tested for COVID-19 after passing passport control. Passengers are not required to wait to get the result at the airport. 
As the country wise entry requirements for travel are dynamic and change frequently all over the world, it is always advisable to be fully aware of all prevailing COVID related norms before travelling to any country.

Question 26

What kind of transportation we use for our tour in Russia?

Accepted Answer

Veena World uses comfortable AC coaches/ small vehicle as per the group size of the tours. Russia is also well known for its Metro network and architecturally beautiful stations and we enjoy a small journey by Metro train to see three marvelous railway stations of Moscow in our group tour itinerary.

Question 27

How is the accommodation in Russia?

Accepted Answer

Russia offers warm hospitality to its visitors and ensures best places to stay. There is a wide range of accommodations available at every popular tourist destination. From budget to luxury hotels, Russia has a lot to offer. Veena World offers, comfortable and clean hotels with necessary amenities, which have been appreciated by our earlier guests.

Question 28

What kind of meals will be provided on tour? Can you cater to my special needs like Jain etc.?

Accepted Answer

Generally, on tour meals are served as mentioned in the itinerary/ tour program as B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner). These are pre-set menus which mostly include Indian meals and sometimes local or international cuisine depending on the availability of the cuisine. At places like Murmansk, international cuisine will be served.
If informed at the time of booking, we can arrange for specific meals like Jain meals wherever possible.

Question 29

Which currency is accepted in Russia?

Accepted Answer

The official currency of Russia is the Russian Ruble. Most major currencies can be exchanged at the airport and in banks and currency exchanges around the country. 
Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but some tourist attractions and transportation within Russia accept only cash. It is always advisable to carry some local currency in cash.

Question 30

Which language is spoken there?

Accepted Answer

Russian is the official language of Russia. English is not widely spoken or written in Russia. But with Veena World, you will be at ease as your tour manager will be there with you to guide at every level, so no worries at all!

Question 31

How is the phone and internet connectivity in Russia?

Accepted Answer

Getting a local sim card in Russia is easy with plenty of pre-paid solutions available. You can also activate International calling facility with your mobile service provider in India before travel. For international calls, it’s better to use WhatsApp, Skype or other mobile applications.
You can find free Wi-Fi not only in coffee shops and restaurants, but also in public facilities such as airports, railway stations, airport express trains and city buses. Keep in mind that you might have to register and give your cell number to receive the Wi-Fi access code. Most of the central streets in Moscow have free Internet, thanks to the “City Wi-Fi” project run by the city administration.

Question 32

What is the time difference and phone code for Russia?

Accepted Answer

Russian time is 3 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time(GMT). India is ahead of Moscow by 2.5/3.5 hrs. subject to day light saving time. The international dialing code to Russia is +7.

Question 33

Which local food I can try when in Russia?

Accepted Answer

The Russian dishes are a great expansion of culture, influence and interest. Russian cuisine was also significantly enriched with recipes borrowed from neighboring countries. 
Here are some of the local Russian foods that should be on your bucket list whenever you have free time!
*Blini – a Russian type of pancakes or crepes. They are usually thin and big, they may be served with sour cream, jam, honey, or caviar or smokes salmon. 
*Syrniki -  Sirniki are small blinis made of cottage cheese. This is a typical food for breakfast or brunch. 
*Pelmeni - Pelmeni are meat or fish dumplings originally coming from the region of Siberia.
*Borscht - Borscht is a beetroot soup that actually originated in Ukraine and was quickly adopted as a Russian speciality as well. It is best served with a dollop of fresh sour cream on top and special garlic bread called pampushka.
*Okroshka - Okroshka is a cold soup that originated in the Volga region. It’s a mix of raw vegetables, boiled potatoes, eggs, and a cooked meat such as beef, veal, sausages, or ham with kvass, which is a non-alcoholic beverage made from fermented black or rye bread.
*Pirozhki - These little baked or fried puff pastries are filled with potatoes, meat, cabbage, or cheese. The stuffed pockets are popular all around Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.
*Shashlik - Shashlik is a Russian take on a kebab, and like any kebab, it consists of cubed meat and veggies grilled on skewers.

Question 34

What souvenirs can I bring back from Russia?

Accepted Answer

As a responsible traveler, we recommend you to shop local souvenirs which not only represent the country the most but also serve as a beautiful memory of your time in Russia. Here are some gifts from Russia that you can find and take home -
*Matryoshka - It is a set of painted wooden dolls
*Ushanka or Shapka Ushanka - Traditional Russian fur hat.
*Russian Vodka
*Khokhloma Crockery - Style of painting on wooden tableware and furniture.
*Pavloposadskie Scarves – Known for their bright flower patterns
*Amber Jewelry
*Podstakannik  - Russian Tea Glass Holder

Question 35

Few more things to keep in mind while in Russia

Accepted Answer

Women should cover their heads and bare shoulders when entering a church. In some monasteries and churches women are also required to wear skirt-wraps which are usually available at the door. Men should remove their hats in church and not wear shorts.

Question 36

What are some local Russian words and phrase?

Accepted Answer

When you are traveling to Russia, it is helpful to know your way around the language a bit to increase your level of understanding and communicate better with the locals. Here are some essential words and phrases you may need to know -
Good morning - Obraye ootro
Hello - Privet 
How are you? - Kak vashi dela? 
Thank you -  Spaseeba 
That's all right - Vse v poryadke
Sorry! - Izvinyayus
Excuse me - Prasteete 
Good-bye - Da sveedaneeya
Yes - Da 
No – Nyet 
Please – Pozhaluysta
How much? - Skol'ko? 
Water – Vody
Food – Yeda
Travel – Puteshestvovat
I – Ya
You – Ty
We - My
He - On
She - Ona
What - Kakiye
Where - Kuda
When - Kogda
How – Kak

Question 37

What are the documents required for booking?

Accepted Answer

You can visit any of our Sales Offices or Sales Partner’s offices in India. At the time of booking, please ensure you carry the following: Personal details of each guest travelling, Photo Identity Proof, PAN card, Passports of all guests, with validity of minimum 6 months from the date of arrival in India after the tour completion, Residence Address Proof and Tour Registration payment.
Veena World Travel Advisor will assist with all details at the time of booking.

Question 38

Where can I get Foreign exchange for Russia?

Accepted Answer

Veena World Forex Pvt. Ltd., one of the Group Companies of Veena World, is an authorized money changer, approved by the Reserve Bank of India to deal in foreign exchange. You can buy foreign exchange at Veena World Forex Pvt. Ltd. in the form of cash; your travel advisor can facilitate the purchase. Alternately, you can buy from any other authorized money changer (FFMC) or from any Bank dealing in foreign exchange.

Question 39

Where will I meet my tour manager?

Accepted Answer

Veena World Tour Manager will be there with you right from the first day of group tour at Mumbai airport to the last day until the group is dropped off at Mumbai airport. S/he shall accompany the group to all the destinations and sightseeing places in the tour itinerary in Russia.

Top Recommended Destinations

Top Recommended Destinations

Antartica

POPULAR & available TOURS

Honeymoon Special

Road Trips

Seniors' Special

Short Trips

Women's Special

Family Tour Packages

Upcoming Tours

Couples Only

Luxury Tours

One Week One Place

Post Tour Holidays

Treks & Hikes

YOLO Adventures

City Walks & Day Trips

WOW Adventures

Students' Special

Women's Special with Kids

THEMED EXPERIENCES - Find your reason!

Luxury Holidays

Island Getaways

Buy & Sell Foreign Currency

US Dollar

AED - UAE Dirham

EUR - Euro

GBP - British Pound

Russia Tour Packages