Aurlandsfjord

Aurlandsfjord, also known as Aurlandsfjorden, is a fjord arm of the Sognefjord in Vestland county, Norway. It extends inland from the Sognefjord between the municipalities of Aurland and Lærdal, with the village of Flåm at its mouth and the Aurland valley opening toward the interior. The fjord is characterized by steep mountainsides that rise directly from the water and deep, sheltered waters, with several waterfalls along its sides. The landscape is part of the broader Nærøyfjord area, where the Nærøyfjord—a narrow branch of the Aurlandsfjord—has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the West Norwegian Fjords.

The Aurlandsfjord is a popular destination for fjord cruises and shore-based tourism. The Flåm Railway, one of the steepest standard-gauge railways in the world, runs along the northeastern edge of the fjord, connecting Flåm with the mountain railway at Myrdal and offering close-up views of the water and cliffs. Local towns and villages along the fjord, including Flåm and Aurland, provide accommodations and services for visitors. The region is part of Norway’s scenic fjord country and supports outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.