Imagine that you are sitting under a vast, starry sky, marveling at its beauty and that you have nothing else to do but admire the twinkling stars above. India has also, perhaps naturally, always had a mystical side that continues to attract tourists from all over the world. It also offers exceptional destinations for stargazing, some of which are more famous than others due to their remoteness and minimal artificial light. Unlike cities where street lights and skyscrapers obscure the night sky, these places offer clear, unobstructed views.

Between October and February, low humidity and fewer insects make for ideal conditions for stargazing in India, with the cool nights pleasant for families and travelers with pets.

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti Valley, situated at the height of the Himalayas, is one of the top stargazing destinations in India. At an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level, it is far away from atmospheric pollution and city lights, offering pristine views of the stars. While much has been said and written about its difficult routes and spectacular views, the valley also offers its visitors uninterrupted views of the Milky Way along with shooting stars and stunning constellations.

Pangong Tso Lake, Ladakh

Ladakh is famous the world over for stargazing, its high altitude and minimal light pollution allowing clear views of the Milky Way. At more than 3,000 meters above sea level, Pangong Tso Lake’s clean air and low annual rainfall make it suitable for stargazers. While you are here, make sure to visit the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle for stargazing at night.

Churu, Rajasthan

In the desert state of Rajasthan, the small town of Churu offers an extraordinary stargazing experience. Its remote location and low light pollution make it ideal for observing the night sky. The high altitude and dry climate improves visibility, and mostly clear skies throughout the year enhance the experience, making Churu a unique stargazing destination.

Sonamarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Camping in Sonamarg is one of the most unforgettable stargazing experiences. At 2,800 meters above sea level, Sonamarg has minimal air turbulence, increasing the clarity of the night sky. Its secluded location means less air and noise pollution, allowing for a serene, clear view of the stars, perfect for astrophotography and astronomy enthusiasts.

Coorg, Karnataka

Known as the “Scotland of India”, stargazing in Coorg adds to the natural beauty of the region. With clear skies, limited light pollution and high altitude, Coorg in the Western Ghats is a popular destination for stargazing. The altitude of the hill station reduces wind distortion, allowing clear visibility at night, while the surrounding hills, valleys and forests form a beautiful backdrop.

Also read: Astrotourism: With Nakshatra Sabha, India is reaching for the stars

Lachen, Sikkim

Located in Sikkim, the small town of Lachen is known for its natural landscape and unique culture. At an altitude of 2,750 metres, Lachen offers a breathtaking dark night sky, surrounded by mountains that block out light pollution. Stargazing is best in Lachen during the clear, dry winter months from October to March, making it a favorite among astronomy enthusiasts.

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