Stargazing: India’s Rising Trend in Astrotourism

As light pollution dims the beauty of the night sky in cities, an exciting trend is emerging in India—astrotourism. People are venturing into high-altitude areas like Ladakh to reconnect with the cosmos, seeking experiences that go beyond ordinary travel. The allure of observing mesmerizing meteors and starry expanses is attracting those looking for a slice of serenity and wonder far from urban chaos.

The Allure of Dark Skies

On a freezing winter evening, around 125 miles from the heart of New Delhi, crowds gather with telescopes, eagerly awaiting the embrace of night. Over the span of a few hours, they witness a spectacular shower of over 150 meteors—a breathtaking sight rare in the light-polluted urban landscape. For many, such celestial events are becoming major travel goals, rivaling traditional visits to historical landmarks or wildlife sanctuaries.

Historically, stargazing in India was reserved for enthusiasts and scientific communities. However, an increasing number of urban dwellers are now journeying to remote spots where darkness reigns, signaling a growing interest in this once-niche hobby.

Growing Demand for Astrotourism

While the demand for astrotourism is on the rise, it remains somewhat niche due to the costs associated with organized trips and the difficulty of accessing secluded, light-free zones. However, as city dwellers yearn to experience untainted skies, tour operators report a significant surge in interest.

In Ladakh’s remote Hanle village—home to India’s first dark-sky reserve, established in 2022—the annual visitor count skyrocketed from approximately 5,000 to over 30,000 within a year. This trend is mirrored across the country; for example, Astroport Global, which hosts stargazing activities at several resorts, has seen annual visitor numbers jump to around 20,000 compared to just a few hundred in previous years.

Hidden Gems of the Night Sky

Visibility plays a crucial role in the experience. The Bortle dark-sky scale, which ranges from one to nine, shows that cities like Delhi score between eight and nine, meaning only the most luminous stars are visible. With PM2.5 pollution often exceeding safe levels, night sky observation becomes particularly challenging, as most celestial objects fade from view.

In contrast, regions such as Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Ladakh boast clearer skies and less pollution, making them prime spots for stargazing. Cooler temperatures in these locations help to ground pollutants, enhancing visibility.

Experience the Geminid Meteor Shower

On December 13, a group of over 30 participants gathered near Rajasthan’s Sariska Tiger Reserve to watch the dazzling Geminid meteor shower. With a Bortle scale rating of four, the reserve allows even novice stargazers to enjoy sights like the Milky Way without the need for telescopes.

Navjot Singh, a space educator involved in these events, notes that most attendees hail from Delhi, where observing deep-space phenomena is almost impossible. Basic stargazing workshops can be enjoyed for around 1,200 rupees ($13), exclusive of travel and accommodation, while extended stays at unique resorts typically range from 8,000 to 12,000 rupees.

Economic & Educational Benefits

Experts believe that while astrotourism in India is still burgeoning, its educational potential is immense. “When individuals gaze through a telescope or watch a meteor shower, space science shifts from the theoretical to the tangible,” remarks Dr. Sachin Bahmba, who leads the Space Group of Companies.

The rise of astrotourism is also positively impacting local economies. In Hanle, the establishment of small hotels has grown significantly, creating job opportunities for local youths who are trained to become guides and astro-ambassadors.

According to Dorje Angchuk from the Indian Astronomical Observatory, the shift benefits both daytime exploration of Ladakh’s stunning landscapes and stargazing at night, capturing the full beauty of the region.

State authorities are beginning to promote educational programs, introducing residents to telescopes and skywatching, especially in the Himalayan states.

The Challenges Ahead

Despite the promising trends, challenges persist. Accessing remote areas like Ladakh or Sariska often incurs significant travel costs, making it less accessible to many. Currently, India has only one officially recognized dark-sky reserve in Hanle, with another under development at Pench Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. Expansion into urban areas is hampered by increasing light pollution and a lack of organized advocacy groups for dark skies.

While there are positive strides, governmental initiatives and local observatories striving to foster community engagement are necessary for the future of astrotourism in India. But for now, these brief escapades into darkness offer city residents a rare opportunity to reconnect with a night sky that has largely faded from daily life.