Flåmsbana

Flåmsbana, also known as the Flåm Railway, is a scenic railway line located in Vestland county, Norway. It runs for 20.2 kilometers (12.6 miles) from the village of Flåm at the inner end of Aurlandsfjorden, a branch of Sognefjorden, up to the mountain station of Myrdal on the Bergen Line. The elevation difference between Flåm and Myrdal is 866 meters (2,841 feet). This significant gradient makes it one of the steepest standard-gauge railway lines in the world, with an average gradient of 55‰.

The construction of Flåmsbana began in 1924 and it was opened in 1942. The line was electrified in 1952. It was originally built to provide a connection for passengers and goods from the Sognefjord area to the Bergen Line. Today, Flåmsbana is primarily a tourist attraction, renowned for its stunning natural scenery. The journey passes through dramatic landscapes, including steep mountainsides, waterfalls such as Kjosfossen, and deep valleys. The train stops at several viewpoints, allowing passengers to admire the views.

The railway is operated by Vy, the Norwegian state railway company. It is a popular excursion for cruise ship passengers visiting the nearby ports of Flam and Gudvangen, as well as for independent travelers exploring the Norwegian fjords. The unique engineering required to overcome the steep terrain, including several switchbacks and tunnels, is also a point of interest for visitors. The journey takes approximately one hour and offers a memorable experience of Norway's natural beauty and industrial heritage.