RUSSIA & MURMANSK WITH NORTHERN LIGHTS

After breakfast, we begin a full-day tour of Moscow’s timeless landmarks, starting at the magnificent Red Square — the historic heart of Russia. Here, we admire the world-famous St. Basil’s Cathedral (Photo Stop), with its colorful onion domes and fascinating legends from Tsar Ivan the Terrible’s reign. We then visit Lenin’s Mausoleum, a solemn monument to the founder of the Soviet Union, followed by a stop at the elegant GUM Department Store, known for its glass roof, luxury boutiques, and classic Soviet ice cream. A short walk takes us to the modern Zaryadye Park, offering panoramic views of the Kremlin from its floating bridge — a perfect photo stop. Our morning culminates inside the Kremlin, the symbol of Russian power, where we see the magnificent cathedrals of Assumption, Annunciation, and Archangel, as well as the massive Tsar Cannon and Tsar Bell. After lunch, we explore Moscow’s underground treasures on a Metro Tour, visiting some of the most beautiful stations in the world — often called “the People’s Palaces.” We then stroll along Arbat Street, a charming pedestrian lane lined with street artists, shops, and cafés. In the evening, we unwind on a Radisson River Cruise, gliding along the Moscow River while enjoying dinner on board. The city’s twinkling skyline — the Kremlin, Gorky Park, and Stalinist skyscrapers — provides a stunning finale to our day of exploration.

After breakfast and check-out, we board the Sapsan high-speed train for our journey to St. Petersburg. Named after the peregrine falcon, the Sapsan glides through the Russian countryside at speeds of up to 250 km/h, offering a comfortable and scenic four-hour journey. As we pass through forests, villages, and open plains, we’ll witness the vastness of Russia unfold before us. Upon arrival at Moskovsky Station, St. Petersburg welcomes us with its elegant European charm. Founded by Tsar Peter the Great as Russia’s “Window to the West,” the city enchants visitors with grand boulevards, romantic canals, and majestic palaces. After a welcome lunch at a local restaurant, we begin our first exploration. Vist St. Isaac's Cathedral, A monumental masterpiece of 19th century architecture, St. Isaac's Cathedral dominates St. Petersburg's skyline with its massive golden dome. The cathedral's spectacular interior features intricate marble work, stunning mosaics, and magnificent columns of malachite and lapis lazuli. Visitors can climb to the colonnade for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the city. In the evening, we experience a traditional Russian Circus Performance, known for its thrilling acrobatics, comedic acts, and family-friendly entertainment. This high-energy show will leave a lasting impression. A delicious dinner follows before we check in to our hotel in St. Petersburg for a comfortable overnight stay.

After breakfast, we set off for the charming town of Pushkin, once known as Tsarskoye Selo, or “The Tsar’s Village.” This was the opulent summer retreat of the Russian royal family, centered around the magnificent Catherine Palace. As we arrive, the palace’s brilliant blue-and-white façade and gilded details immediately capture our attention. Inside, we walk through a dazzling series of state rooms — each one more ornate than the last. The highlight is the world-famous Amber Room, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Its golden panels and shimmering mosaics, painstakingly reconstructed after World War II, are a breathtaking symbol of Russian artistry. After lunch back in the city, our St. Petersburg city tour begins. This panoramic exploration reveals the grandeur and beauty that make the city the “Venice of the North.” We’ll admire Nevsky Prospect, the lively main avenue; Palace Square, framed by the majestic Winter Palace. We’ll pause for photos at the historic Peter and Paul Fortress, the first structure built in St. Petersburg by Peter the Great. Its golden spire gleams above the Neva River, while the Peter and Paul Cathedral (Photo Stop) within serves as the resting place of Russia’s emperors — from Peter the Great to Nicholas II and his family. In the evening, we enjoy a delightful Nikolaevsky Folklore Show, where traditional music, energetic dances, and colorful costumes bring Russian culture vividly to life. The rhythmic performances and melodies of the balalaika create a joyful, festive atmosphere.

After breakfast, we shift gears from imperial elegance to pure adrenaline with an unforgettable military adventure outside the city. This thrilling experience gives us a taste of Russian military power and precision. Our morning begins with a tank ride, where we feel the raw strength of this mighty machine as it rumbles across rugged off-road terrain. Next comes a supervised AK-47 shooting session, an exclusive opportunity to safely handle the world’s most iconic assault rifle under expert guidance. All safety equipment and instructions will be provided to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience. After this action-packed morning, we return to the city for a well-deserved lunch. Our afternoon is dedicated to the legendary Hermitage Museum, one of the world’s greatest art collections. Once the Winter Palace of the Russian Tsars, its lavish halls display masterpieces by da Vinci, Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and many others. As we wander through its golden galleries and marble staircases, we experience both the opulence of imperial Russia and the beauty of world art. In the evening, we gather for a dinner — the perfect moment to celebrate the memories, laughter, and adventures shared over the past few days.

After breakfast and check-out, we transfer to Pulkovo Airport for our f light north — leaving behind imperial grandeur and flying toward the raw, untamed beauty of the Arctic Circle. Upon arrival in Murmansk, we step into a world unlike any other. Known as the largest city north of the Arctic Circle, Murmansk holds a special place in Russian history and geography. Its ice-free harbor, polar landscapes, and resilient people give it a character both rugged and fascinating. A short city orientation tour will introduce us to Murmansk’s unique setting — a place of icy horizons, northern lights, and endless stories of endurance. After a hearty dinner at a local restaurant, we will check in to our hotel to freshen up before the evening’s main highlight — our first Aurora Hunting tour. Guided by local experts who know the best vantage points, we will venture far from city lights into the pristine Arctic wilderness. Here, under vast open skies, we wait in anticipation for nature’s most magical show — the Aurora Borealis. When the night is clear, the sky comes alive with dancing ribbons of green, pink, and violet light — a moment of pure wonder that words can barely capture. After this unforgettable experience, we return to our hotel for a well-earned rest — our hearts full of awe after witnessing one of nature’s greatest spectacles.

After breakfast, travel to Lovozero, the heartland of the Sami people. Begin with a visit to a Husky Park, where you’ll receive a safety briefing and set out on a husky safari through snow-covered trails. Next, visit a Sami settlement. Inside a traditional kota, learn about Sami culture, including their clothing, reindeer herding traditions, and enjoy a live concert of Sami folk song. After a traditional local lunch, return to Murmansk. In the evening, head out for your second Aurora Hunting tour with expert guides, aiming to spot the Northern Lights again. Return to hotel for overnight stay.

After breakfast and check-out, visit the Icebreaker Lenin, the world’s f irst nuclear-powered surface ship, now a museum. Explore its decks, engine rooms, and control chambers, learning about its historic role in Arcticnavigation. Following our tour, we transfer to Murmansk Airport for our flight back to Moscow. Upon arrival at Sheremetyevo Airport, we are welcomed and transferred to our hotel for check-in. The evening is at leisure, allowing time to relax after the journey and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the incredible contrasts between the remote Arctic landscapes and the vibrant streets of Moscow.

After breakfast and check-out, visit the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics, located beneath the Monument to the Conquerors of Space. Explore exhibits like Sputnik replicas, Laika’s capsule, and Yuri Gagarin’s Vostok module, showcasing Russia’s space legacy. Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs like matryoshka dolls, amber jewelry, and Russian chocolates. Later, transfer to Sheremetyevo Airport for your Oman Airways flight to Muscat, filled with memories of your Russian journey.

Arrive in Muscat and connect to your Oman Airways flight to Cochin. Reflect on the unforgettable journey across Russia — from imperial cities to Arctic wonders. On arrival at Cochin International Airport, collect your luggage and bid farewell to the group. Along with souvenirs, you return with cherished memories of a spectacular Russian adventure.