In Pajala, on the Torne River, visible traces of church history meet river and bog landscapes. Pajala Church stands by the river; its history also leads to Kengis: in 1797, it was built there as a parish church, later moved to Pajala, and remodelled between 1869 and 1871. Lars Levi Laestadius preached in the church from 1849 to 1860. The sequence of construction, relocation and remodelling tells the story of this building’s long history.
Church History and Cultural Life
The Laestadius Museum consists of a vicarage, a Pörte and an herb garden, and offers insight into the life and work of Lars Levi Laestadius. The museum also preserves original objects documenting the lives of Laestadius and Brita-Kajsa. Laestadiuspörtet is protected as a listed building because of its historical connection to Laestadius; the Laestadiuspörtet Museum is located near Pajala Church. In summer, visitors can explore the interactive nature corner at the Laestadius Museum when guides are present.
Meänkieli and Finnish are important parts of local cultural life, for example in music, theatre and literature. Tornedalsteatern – Tornionlaakson teatteri is based in Pajala. Recurring events also offer a glimpse into the town’s cultural diversity: Kväänifästi takes place annually in connection with the Pajala Market. The 2026 programme includes history, workshops, crafts, art, theatre, music, language immersion and culinary experiences, as well as talks and discussions.
Markets and Events
The Pajala Market dates back to the 18th century. Around 45,000 visitors attend the market; the number may vary from year to year. Römppäviikko was revived in 1987, and the tradition has been intended to continue year after year ever since. If you would like to include an event in your travel plans, check the exact dates in advance.
Bog Landscapes and Outdoor Activities
The Vasikkavuoma nature reserve is about ten kilometres from Pajala. Boardwalks, parking areas, barbecue sites, a rest cabin and toilets are among the visitor facilities there. Around 80 haystacks remain in a historic hay meadow, and about 70 bird species have been observed in the area. Hiking, camping and lighting fires are permitted in designated places, subject to the nature reserve’s rules. Check the current rules before your visit. In winter, ski trails are often laid across the bog, although their preparation varies from one winter to another.
Nature and regional history also come together at Kengisforsen. The rapid on the Torne River has a drop of 18 metres and extends for 600 metres. Salmon fishing and walks along the riverbank are possible there; fishing conditions vary by season. On the south side of Kengisforsen, the industrial surroundings of Kengis bruk offer history and interesting architecture.
Rivers, Lakes and Fishing
Pajala Municipality encompasses five rivers. The Torne River and the Kalix River are protected as national rivers from hydropower development. The municipality also includes around 1,150 kilometres of waterways and about 680 lakes. Fish species found there include pike, perch, roach, whitefish, burbot, grayling and trout. Active fishing areas provide opportunities to fish in lakes and rivers. Professional fishing companies in Pajala offer guided tours, individual fishing trips and package deals. If a particular option is important for your trip, check availability in advance.
Travel Information
Soltorget is home to the world’s largest sundial of its kind. The Visit Pajala information centre there also provides information about places to visit and hosts art exhibitions by local artists. Information and exhibitions may change. For an overview of the municipality, Pajala’s Naturkartan brings together places to visit, fishing lakes, snowmobile routes, ski trails and other offerings; information on routes and facilities is updated regularly.
Pajala can be reached via Route 99 along the Torne River or via Route 395 from Kiruna–Vittangi. Check road and seasonal conditions before setting off. Pajala Airport offers a connection to Luleå; you should also check flight schedules before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Pajala, Korpilombolo, Muodoslompolo, Tärendö, Kangos, Gällivare, Haparanda, Arjeplog.
Return to the main travel overview: Norrbotten.
