Translating from Lule Sami as “River’s Curve”, Jokkmokk lies along a meandering river just north of the Arctic Circle. It has long been an important meeting place for Sami people and has hosted a winter market since 1605. During World War II, Jokkmokk served as a transit hub for Sami refugees fleeing the Nazi occupation of Norway.
Things to do in Jokkmokk
For insight into the cultural and natural history of the region, visit Ajtte - the Swedish Mountain and Sami Museum. The name “Ajtte” translates from Lule Sami as “storage hut”, with the building serving as an archive for Sami artefacts such as traditional costumes, silverware and handicrafts. Ajtte also runs an alpine botanical garden planted with species native to northern Scandinavia.
Occupying a charming wooden pharmacy that dates back to 1901 is the Föreningen Gamla Apoteket, which now hosts changing exhibitions by local artists. Many of the works depict quintessential Lapland scenes, such as snowy alpine landscapes and the Northern Lights. Some of the artwork is for sale and guided tours of the town can be organised at the gallery.
Coincide your visit with the Jokkmokk Winter Market, which has been held in the town for the last 400 years. It has long provided an opportunity for Sami people to meet and trade wares, with locally made handicrafts and culinary delicacies a highlight of the market. In addition to its stalls selling arts and crafts, the market hosts concerts, dances and discussions.
Getting around Jokkmokk
Jokkmokk is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Gällivare Lapland Airport, which has regular flights to Stockholm. During the summer months, trains connect from Kristinehamn to the Jokkmokk railway station while buses travel from as far afield as Östersund. Jokkmokk is compact enough to explore on foot.