10 stellar stargazing destinations in India

May 20, 2024

By: Ayush Mehrotra

Ladakh

Ladakh is renowned for its clear skies and high altitude, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. Places like Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley offer minimal light pollution and breathtaking views of the night sky.

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Spiti Valley

Situated in the Himalayas, Spiti Valley boasts pristine landscapes and high-altitude villages, providing excellent conditions for stargazing. The remote location and low population density contribute to dark skies perfect for observing stars.

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Nainital, Uttarakhand

Nainital is famous for its picturesque lakes and surrounding hills, offering a tranquil environment for stargazing. The Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) located here hosts astronomy workshops and observatory visits.

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Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

During the Rann Utsav festival (typically held from November to February), the Rann of Kutch transforms into a magical desert landscape with vast expanses of salt flats. The clear desert skies make it an excellent spot for stargazing.

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Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, also known as Kodagu, is renowned for its coffee plantations and lush greenery. Away from city lights, it offers dark skies perfect for stargazing. The Coorg Institute of Astrophysics conducts stargazing sessions and astronomy workshops.

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Mount Abu, Rajasthan

Mount Abu, the only hill station in Rajasthan, is nestled in the Aravalli Range and offers relatively clear skies for stargazing. The Guru Shikhar peak, the highest point in the Aravalli Range, provides panoramic views of the night sky.

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Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra

Mahabaleshwar is a hill station known for its stunning viewpoints and pleasant climate. Away from the city lights, it offers opportunities for stargazing, especially during the cooler months.

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Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Located in Arunachal Pradesh, is known for its pristine beauty and high-altitude landscapes. Away from urban centres, Tawang offers clear skies with minimal light pollution, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. The Tawang Monastery, perched atop a hill, provides a scenic location for observing the night sky.

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Munnar, Kerala

Munnar is renowned for its tea plantations, misty mountains, and serene atmosphere. Away from the hustle and bustle of cities, Munnar offers relatively clear skies for stargazing, especially during the winter months. The elevated terrain provides panoramic views of the night sky, making it a delightful destination for astronomy enthusiasts.

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Havelock Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Havelock Island, part of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago, is celebrated for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Away from mainland light pollution, Havelock Island offers dark skies ideal for stargazing. Visitors can enjoy stargazing sessions on the beach, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the ocean.

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