Forget city lights! These Astro-tourism destinations in India will blow your mind

Astro tourism, a new boom in India, whereby individuals who are immensely interested in astronomy are traveling the globe. Due to the increasing pollution of cities , gazing at stars appears unthinkable, hence going to these destinations to see a sky full of stars seems to be an option that one can try. And India boasts a great number of places that provide with an opportunity to see some of the most beautiful celestial events like stars, planets, meteor showers, and the Milky Way. Let us look at some places ideal for Astro tourism in India:

A village that is situated in rural areas near Sandhan Valley in Maharashtra and is well known for clear nights because the pollution level is not much here and is ideal for astronomers as well as others who love stargazing. Stargazing camps are organized on a regular basis here and telescopes are made available, which assist the visitors to view planets, stars, and meteor showers. The fact that the Milky Way is prominently visible from this spot contributes to the experience, and one can also view the most spectacular celestial happenings easily here.

Astronomers or stargazers must go to the Starscapes observatory at Mukteshwar in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand. The altitude at which it is situated and the lack of pollution contribute heavily to the experience. Here, one can look at breathtaking views of star fields and constellations. At this observatory, one gets to enjoy the night sky with peace and gaze upon the enormous space with planets, stars, and galaxies that glow majestically. People not only get to gaze at the stars here, but they also gain a profound insight into space with history, mythology, and culture.

One of the darkest sky areas of India that provides us with an opportunity to go to observation camps in the desert. Desert environment and less humidity create dark skies, which enhances deep sky observation. Stargazing India, an organization here, organizes observation camps in the desert and villages of Gujarat. At the camps, one can star-gaze using the telescopes installed and learn extensively about astronomy from experts too. Bhuj has open, flat desserts with expansive horizons and low air pollution levels, making it the best place to star-gaze. The best time to visit is from November to March for clearer skies.

A serene location that provides dark skies which are ideal for stargazing and also provides the guests an opportunity for a much-needed digital detox from their hectic lifestyle. The place of Shahapur is such that there is less pollution compared to city life, providing a clear sky for stargazing as well as astrophotography. An organisation called Stargazing Mumbai organises night sky viewing sessions which are primarily intended for students, families, and astronomy clubs, providing an escape for stargazing. As Shahapur is close to both Mumbai and Pune, it is easy to visit as a weekend getaway and also provides an easygoing and informative experience.

This hill station in Madhya Pradesh is emerging as a dark sky destination. This location is encircled by thick Satpura forests, which facilitates lesser pollution and the forests around act as a barrier against excessive light as well as the high terrain helping in reducing atmospheric haze, which leads to a clearer sky and better view for stargazing. Organizations have begun to organize events here that inform individuals about the night sky and facilitate stargazing. One can even hike to the top of high mountains in order to get a better view of the sky. The best time to come here would be November to February.