We are super excited as India’s first ‘Night Sky Sanctuary‘ was inaugurated in Ladakh on 31 Oct as a part of Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. This night sky sanctuary aims to boost the astro-tourism in India. This is one of the world’s highest-located reserve for infra-red, optical and gamma-way telescopes.
The Night Sky Sanctuary project was initiated by LAHDC (Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council), the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and the Union Territory administration.
The main focus of this project is to work towards the preservation of the night sky from unfavourable light pollution and illumination. This is mainly because this kind of pollution is a serious threat to the scientific observations and signals.
Ladakh is already one of the most popular tourist locations of the world. It is a part of many people’s travel bucket list. Not just regular tourists but Ladakh is very popular amongst the drivers, bikers and cyclists. And why not, it is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. I am fortunate that I got a chance to visit Ladakh and I am not done yet. I will go back to this place again and again.
I fell in love with Ladakh the moment I entered the territory. The landscapes are simply beautiful after Sarchu (a small village that you cross when road-tripping from Manali to Ladakh). I had never seen such beautiful and clear skies before. I am sure this Night Sky Sanctuary will be one of the most beautiful experiences for every astronomy and universe lover.
What is Night Sky Sanctuary?
Located in Hanle, some 300 km from Ladakh, this is a place where you can witness the marvels of the space including planets, milky way, stars and even other galaxies.
Are you wondering why I mentioned galaxies? Well, during my trip to Rann Utsav, I actually saw another galaxy during their star-gazing session. I am not sure how things will unfold here and what all will be the options in the Ladakh Night Sky Sanctuary but I do expect to see the stars, planets and galaxies from there. Also, you can watch my Rann of Kutch vlog to know more about the time when I saw another galaxy for real.
This Dark Sky Reserve or Night Sky Sanctuary will be a major tourist attraction.
Hanle is a perfect place for this kind of a sanctuary mainly because it is away from the hustle bustle of the humans, the sky is way clearer than other regions and has the least amount of atmospheric disturbance.
This will not also help tourists to know our universe with a new perspective but also help in boosting the local economy. The is mainly because there are small villages around the observatory and many locals have started hosting people and turned their homes into a homestay.
The entry and observation cost of the Night Sky Sanctuary is yet to be decided and will be revealed soon.
I just can’t wait to travel to Ladakh and visit this amazing Night Sky Sanctuary. What about you?
Share this article proudly as it is a matter of pride as we took a step forward in Indian tourism.
Also read:
8 Best Places To Visit In Leh Ladakh + Photos From My Archive
Leh Ladakh Road Trip – Detailed Guide, Tips & Photos
8 Ways to Travel Like a Millionaire on a Budget
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