How long does Gaustabanen take?

The trip itself takes approx. 15 minutes. Allow 1.5–2 hours for the whole experience including time at the summit.

Is Gaustabanen open in winter?

The railway has its own seasonal opening hours — check gaustabanen.no. Summer (June–October) is the main season, but it is also open during parts of the winter.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

It is recommended — especially during peak season and for groups. We can arrange tickets for school/corporate groups.

The NATO railway inside the mountain

Gaustabanen

Gaustabanen is one of Norway's most unique railway journeys — built by NATO in the 1950s, opened to the public in 2010, and still an experience in its own right.

A railway inside the mountain

Gaustabanen was built by NATO between 1954 and 1959 to serve the radar station at the summit of Gaustatoppen. In the years before the railway became public, only military personnel were allowed to use it.

The railway consists of two parts: first a horizontal carriage that takes you 850 m into the mountain, then a cable car in a 1040 m long inclined shaft up to the summit. The entire trip takes approx. 15 minutes — and is a spectacular experience.

Since opening to the public in 2010, Gaustabanen has become one of Telemark's most visited attractions, and a perfect way to experience Gaustatoppen for those who do not want to or cannot hike up.

Practical information

The entrance is located at Svineroi in Tuddal — approx. 30 minutes drive from Rjukan town center. There is parking at the entrance.

The railway is open during the summer season (typically June–October) and parts of the winter — check gaustabanen.no for current opening hours and prices.

Wear warm clothes: the temperature in the mountain and at the summit is significantly lower than in the valley. At the summit, there can be snow even in summer.

Built: 1954–1959 by NATO
Opened to the public: 2010
Tunnel section: 850 m horizontal
Cable car section: 1040 m inclined shaft