Arktikum Science Centre and Ranua Zoo

Day 3: Woke up late and took the day at leisure. Visited the Arktikum Science Centre – a museum, a tourist attraction and a popular culture destination – known for its unique architecture and a must visit if you like to know Lapland history. Located on the banks of River Ounasjoki and close to the city centre, its also known for its Arctic garden.

An ideal place for photography too!!

Wandered around Lordi square/ Sampokeskus mall and had a late lunch of hot, creamy Salmon soup (Lapland’s own signature dish), Rye bread and some cakes and coffee at the Coffee House. Bought some souvenirs made from Reindeer horns and watched the performance of some students (?) with fire torches in the square. Retired for the day.

Day 4: Walked up to the bus station – about 600 mtrs- to board the bus to go to Ranua Zoo. The helpful lady at the counter advised us to buy the “return family ticket” (works out much cheaper for a family of three or four!). Reached the Zoo after about 45 minutes travel- it was raining snowflakes along the route for a while but was clear when we reached. Entrance ticket Euro 15 each and we were given a walking route map of about 3 km into snow filled winding pathways. Of course the main attraction was the Polar bear but there are quite number of other arctic animals too!  It was well past 2 pm and we were hungry! The Zoo restaurant had a nice spread of buffet with hot and cold menus- (Euro 15) including the Lapland’s own creamy hot Salmon soup and some game meat as well.

Rested a while and returned home by evening.