Ladakh’s Hanle is India’s first Dark Sky Reserve!

Ladakh just gave us one more incredible reason why it should be on everybody’s travel bucket list. Ladakh is now home to India’s first Dark Sky Reserve, Hanle Dark Sky Reserve. Hanle is a small village in the Changthang region, approximately 270 km south-east of Leh.

Within Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, the six hamlets of Bhok, Shado, Punguk, Khuldo, Naga and Tibetan Refugee habitations together form a cluster or an area which has been officially notified as the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve.


Earlier, Hanle only had the Indian Astronomical Observatory. Now, a total area of 1,073 km around Hanle is a dark sky reserve, and if you are an astronomy enthusiast, this is the best place for you.


What is a Dark Sky Reserve?
A dark sky reserve is an area where light pollution is monitored. Basically, there are several restrictions around the reserve where humans are not allowed to have any loud source of light. So what you have there is a total darkness which makes sky observation easier and more fun.


Even if there are habitations around the reserve, they will be required to follow a set of rules in order to maintain the idea of minimal to zero light pollution. So for those visiting Hanle, please bear in mind, no artificial illumination of any kind (vehicle lights too) will be allowed inside the reserve area.


The Hanle Dark Sky Reserve will now be accessible to the general public throughout the year. The dark sky reserve became a possibility because of the cold and dry weather of Hanle! So cool.


Most of the local villagers are trained to show the astro-tourists the wonder of Hanle’s dark skies.

1. Where is Hanle?
   Hanle is a small village in the Changthang region, approximately 270 km south-east of Leh.
2. Are there any accommodation options in Hanle?
   There are a few homestays in the villages where you can stay. Some of these homestays are run by the guides, also known as astronomy ambassadors. Homestays run by them will have telescopes.
3. How to get the Inner Line Permit for Hanle?
   You will have to (in-person) go to the Leh DC office for the permit.