This is the only country known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes” and how to reach here

Far from the roaring crowd lies a country that’s a natural wonder in itself. Every lane, every corner, every tree sings a gratitude song to the wind, snow and lakes. This country in Northern Europe is also famously known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’.

The title sounds poetic and is apt. But what you see in pictures can’t do justice to what you see in reality. The pictures barely do justice to its beauty. The country we are talking about is dotted with a mind-blowing number of lakes. No we are not talking in hundreds or thousands, but the number is nearly 188,000! And that country’s name is Finland. Unbelievable, right? These lakes are across its landscape making Finland, one of the purest and most immersive natural experiences in the world! The lakes here look like a part of another realm.

From mirror-like waters reflecting the midnight sun to frozen lakes glowing under the Northern Lights, the lakes define the country’s and travel appeal.The history of the ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’Finland earned the sobriquet of ‘Land of a Thousand Lakes’ for all the right reasons. The name originated from an extraordinary freshwater network which was created in the country during the last Ice Age. Some 10,000 years ago, the glaciers retreated and made deep depressions into the bedrock.

These hollows got filled with melting water, and that’s how over thousands of interconnected lakes and rivers were born. Today, nearly 10 percent of Finland’s total area is lake.

So calling lakes the life of Finland won’t be incorrect. Three famous lakes

One lake that stands out here is Lake Saimaa. It is known for being the largest lake in the country. The lake is also noted for its labyrinth of islands which are home to rare ringed seals.

Then there is Lake Päijänne, which is a major source of freshwater while Lake Inari is another prominent lake in the lap of Lapland which is closely tied to Sámi culture.Best time to visit lakes in Finland

The ideal time completely depends on the kind of experience you seek:Summer (June to August): It is considered the best time to explore the summer beauty of Finland lakes. The mild temperatures and long daylight hours make it a perfect time for exploration. Also you get to experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun.Autumn (September to October): Autumn is known for an exceptional phenomenon, known as ruska, which is Finland’s fall foliage. Fewer tourists, crisp air and perfect for photography.Winter (December to March): This is the time when you get to experience frozen lakes. As soon as the lake freezes, it becomes a hotspot for ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling, especially in Lapland. Also, the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis.Spring (April to May): Spring is the best time for those who wish to see the snow melt.

It is the time to see migratory birds.Must-visit lake destinations in Finland

Lakeland Region (Järvi-Suomi): It is the heart of Finland’s lake district. The region is home to towns like Savonlinna and Mikkeli, where one can witness some exceptional lake beauty.Saimaa Lake System: This region is perfect for cruises and island hopping.Lapland’s Lake Inari: Then there is Lapland’s Lake Inari region which offers cultural immersion with the indigenous Sámi community.How to Reach Finland

By Air: Finland’s Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport is the prime international gateway.

The airport is well-connected with major airports in Europe. Regular flights from major cities in India like Delhi and Mumbai are available for Helsinki through hubs such as Doha, Dubai and Frankfurt.By Rail and Road (within Europe): Finland enjoys great rail connectivity to neighboring European nations. Ferries operate regularly from Sweden and Estonia to Helsinki.Visa information for Indian travellersIndian passport holders need to obtain a Schengen Visa to enter Finland.Visa Type: Short-stay Schengen Tourist Visa (Type C)Validity: Up to 90 days within a 180-day periodProcessing Time: Typically 15 working daysWhere to Apply: Finnish Embassy or authorized visa application centers (such as VFS Global)Though the country is known as the land of a thousand lakes, Finland is so much more than that. The scenic backdrops are to die for! These shape the country’s culture and tourism.