The 10 Best Stargazing Destinations In India

OT Staff

Hanle, Ladakh

Home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, Hanle is India’s only dark sky reserve. The area spans 1,073 square kilometres and is strictly regulated to minimise light pollution. The dry and cold weather conditions make it ideal for stargazing and astrophotography.

Bright Arm of the Milky Way galaxy shot at Hanle, Ladakh | Shutterstock

Pangong Lake, Ladakh

Situated at an altitude of 4,225 metres, Pangong Lake offers a pristine environment with minimal light pollution. The clear skies provide stunning views of the Milky Way and other celestial bodies, making it a favourite among stargazers and campers.

Views of Pangong Lake under the night sky | Shutterstock

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Known for its high altitude and clear skies, Spiti Valley is perfect for stargazing. The valley’s remote location ensures minimal light pollution, offering breathtaking night sky views, including the Milky Way and various constellations.

A vernacular gateway under the night sky of Spiti Valley | Shutterstock

Nubra Valley, Ladakh

Nubra Valley, with its high altitude and clear skies, is another excellent stargazing spot in Ladakh. The valley’s remote location and minimal light pollution make it ideal for observing stars, planets, and meteor showers.

Core of the Milky Way galaxy, shot at Nubra Valley, Ladakh | Shutterstock

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

The vast, flat expanse of the Rann of Kutch provides an unobstructed view of the night sky. The region’s dry climate and minimal light pollution make it a prime location for stargazing, especially during the Rann Utsav festival.

A night vision of the Rann of Kutch, Gujarat | Shutterstock

Coorg, Karnataka

Known for its lush greenery and coffee plantations, Coorg also offers clear night skies ideal for stargazing. The region’s high altitude and low light pollution provide excellent conditions for observing stars and constellations.

The starry sky of Coorg at night | Shutterstock

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

The desert landscape of Jaisalmer offers clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it a great spot for stargazing. The region’s dry climate and open spaces provide excellent views of the night sky.

The royal cenotaphs known as Jaisalmer Chhatris at night | Shutterstock

Neil Island, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

This remote island offers some of the clearest skies in India, free from light pollution. The island’s tropical climate and minimal human activity make it an ideal location for stargazing and astrophotography.

Sunrise from Tango Beach Resort, Neil Island | Shutterstock

Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Known for its scenic beauty, Sonmarg also offers clear night skies perfect for stargazing. The region’s high altitude and minimal light pollution provide excellent conditions for observing celestial bodies.

Milky Way galaxy as seen from Gangabal Campsite on the Kashmir Great Lakes trek at Sonamarg | Shutterstock

Pachmarhi, Madhya Pradesh

As Madhya Pradesh’s only hill station, Pachmarhi offers clear skies and minimal light pollution. The region’s high altitude and natural beauty make it ideal for stargazing and observing constellations.

A waterfall in Pachmarhi | Shutterstock

10 Most Beautiful Indian Treks To Go On This Autumn

Read More