6 Must-Visit Stargazing Spots You Can't Miss Near Delhi
Delhi has some of the most magnificent places for tourists to explore, but seasoned eyesers will truly find these places promising for a splendid stargazing experience. With a blanket and some iced tea, you're guaranteed an outstanding evening.
1.Surajkund, Haryana
Situated merely 20 km away from Delhi, Surajkund proves to be a magnificent chill point for a night of stargazing. Being enclosed by the Aravalli Hills, the area is notable for its natural beauty and serves as a great stargazing spot. Most importantly, these hills block out most of the pollution caused by the city and bask the area in the serenity it deserves.
The best part of Surajkund is that it is not just a place for stargazing. You can explore the old reservoir or visit the famous Surajkund Mela if you happen to be there in February. The real magic begins after the sunset. Lay back on the grassy slopes and let the stars take center stage.
Distance from Delhi: 22 km (approx. 45-minute drive)
Best time to visit: October to March, when the skies are clearest
What to bring: A telescope or binoculars, a blanket, and some snacks
Bonus: The Surajkund Mela, held annually, is a cultural extravaganza worth experiencing
2.Damdama Lake, Gurgaon
When searching for a quiet place nearby the city, Damdama Lake is the place you should consider. This scenic lake is gouged out of the earth around 60 km from Delhi and is framed by rocky hills and lush greenery. This makes it the best location for camping out under the stars.
The lake's still waters and the reflection of the glimmering stars is a sight to behold. Going out here over the weekend is a treat since it allows for overnight camping. Imagine yourself relaxing next to the lake, indulging in a cup of hot chai while watching the Milky Way galaxy stretch across the clear sky.
Distance from Delhi: 50km (approx. 1.5-hour drive)
Best time to visit: October to March as the weather is pleasant during this period
Activities: Boating, camping, and nature walks during the day
Pro tip: Carry a star map or a stargazing app to identify constellations
3.Neemrana Fort Palace, Rajasthan
One of the most appealing resort locations near Delhi, around 120 kms away, is the Historical Neemrana Fort Palace. Always intended as more than just a place to stay, this ancestral hotel is built on a steep hill and has some breathtaking views of the landscapes and of course, the night sky.
The lack of city lights combined with the elevated position makes it an excellent spot for stargazing. A stay at the fort can be booked which allows for one to indulge in a majestic stargazing experience. Visualize this, lying on the fort ramparts while the twinkling stars put on a twinkling display – bliss!
Distance from Delhi: 115 km (approx. 3-hour drive)
Best time to visit: October to March for clear skies and cool weather
Unique feature: The fort offers zip-lining and vintage car rides during the day
Fun fact: Neemrana Fort Palace is one of the oldest heritage hotels in India
4.Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
Through Delhi, there's adventure waiting around every corner and the Sariska Tiger Reserve, located roughly 200 kilometers away offers some amazing wildlife. Famous for its variety of fauna and other wildlife, this reserve also serves as a perfect destination for star gazing due to the absence of light pollution.
If you're lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the foreboding tigers during the day and other wild animals at night, you can finally take a rest during the night at the campsites. Since there are no bright lights in the jungle, you can settle down, breathe in the soothing environment, and allow the stars to capture your attention.
Distance from Delhi: 211 km (approx. 4.5-hour drive)
Best time to visit: between October and March for clear skies and wildlife sightings
What to expect: Jungle safaris, ancient temples, and serene camping spots
Did you know? Sariska is home to the ruins of the 10th-century Neelkanth Temples
5.Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan
Stargazers that enjoy having a sprinkle of mystery around their viewing spectacles will fall in love with Bhangarh Fort. Complimenting to the eerie atmosphere surrounding it, the town nearby is a fantastic destination due to its pristine dark skies for stargazing while sprinkling in mysteries associated with the 17th century fort.
Make sure to head towards the fort before sunset so reason stays in your favor. Due to the spooky tales, the fort has surrounding it, there are restrictions on wandering anywhere nearby after sunset. However, with your trust misplaced in the rumors, the areas surrounding the fort compliment for perfect setup of a telescope. The clarity and Advantageous position of the fort makes viewing many constellations easier.
Distance from Delhi: 266 km (approx. 6-hour drive)
Best time to visit: October to March for clear skies and cooler weather
Spooky fact: Bhangarh Fort is considered one of the most haunted places in India
Pro tip: Combine your trip with a visit to the nearby Ajabgarh and Pratapgarh forts
6.Naini Lake, Nainital
Traveling a little bit more makes Nainital worth it. This hill station is known for its beautiful lakes and blooming mountains is about 300 km from Delhi. Naini Lake, in particular, is beautiful for stargazing as well as sunsets.
The mountain cool breeze and the stars glaring on the lake creates a captivating effect. One can always go for a romantic stroll during the day and then sit by the lake at night for some amazing views.
Distance from Delhi: 18 km (approx. 1-hour drive)
Best time to visit: March to June and September to November for clear skies
Activities: Boating, trekking, and exploring the local markets
Fun fact: Nainital is named after the Naini Lake, which is said to be one of the 64 Shakti Peeths
Final Thoughts
Naini Lake is not the only stargazing spot in India. Places surrounding Delhi seem to create a canvas for the perfect night sky. From calm lakes to ancient forts, these stargazing spots near the capital makes it an ideal getaway from the city's chaos.
These are my reasons on why you should go to these places. All I can say is that you should experience this at least once in your lifetime as it is unforgettable.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Disneyland in Gurgaon: Haryana CM says talks on for India's first Mickey Mouse & Co park near Manesar
Gurgaon may soon have India's first Disneyland. The Haryana government is discussing the project with Disney. A 500-acre site near Manesar has been identified. The amusement park is expected to boost tourism and create jobs. It will be located near the KMP Expressway. The government also plans to expand other tourist events. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Strategic location near KMP Expressway Disneyland plan may bring wide-ranging benefits Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Plans to boost other tourist events too Past attempts and political response Gurgaon may soon become home to India's first Disneyland amusement park. Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Wednesday said the state government is in talks with Disney officials and has identified 500 acres of land near Pachgaon Chowk in Manesar for the project, a TOI report a meeting with Union culture and tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Delhi, the CM said the planned amusement park would be a significant boost to the region's tourism and economy. 'The project will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities and bring major changes to the area. It will attract international tourists too,' Saini said Gurgaon was selected as the location because of its economic importance and infrastructure. 'The upcoming Global City project in Gurgaon will be another milestone for the region. Hence, Gurgaon is the most suitable location for Disneyland. The site in Manesar is strategically located along KMP Expressway and Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor (HORC). People from across NCR can easily visit,' he Global City project is a 1,000-acre planned mini-city spread across sectors 36, 36B, 37 and 37B. It will include links to Delhi-Gurgaon and Dwarka expressways, and follow a walk-to-work model with access to all essential CM said the Disneyland-style entertainment hub would deliver economic, cultural, and social benefits to both the state and the country. 'The project will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities and bring major changes to the area,' he it materialises, this will be Disney's first amusement park in India developed through official collaboration. In February this year, the Maharashtra government had announced a similar plan for a Disney-themed park in Navi from the Disneyland proposal, Saini said the Haryana government is looking to expand the annual International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetra. He added that the popular Surajkund Mela may also be held three times a year.'Considering the popularity of the Surajkund Mela, govt is planning to organise a Diwali mela and a book fair at Surajkund as well… We have also sought support from the Union tourism ministry and the central govt to organise Gita Mahotsav on a grand scale,' he said.A similar proposal was made in 1989 by then Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala to bring Disneyland to Gurgaon. However, the project was shelved following opposition from political parties and land-owning Thursday, INLD national president Abhay Singh Chautala raised questions over the current government's stand. 'BJP was supporting INLD govt in 1989 but it sided with Congress to oppose the project back then,' Abhay said.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
2 days ago
- Business Standard
India's first Disneyland park proposed in Manesar, says Haryana CM Saini
Haryana is planning something big for fun and tourism. Manesar could soon be home to India's first Disneyland-style theme park, promising to turn the state into a major hub for fun and tourism. The National Capital Region (NCR) could soon host India's first Disneyland amusement park, with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini announcing a 500-acre mega entertainment hub in Manesar. The project, he said, is set to become a landmark in the state's tourism and infrastructure development. The Chief Minister revealed that the site for the park has been earmarked near Pachgaon Chowk in Manesar, Gurugram district. The site is strategically situated along the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal (KMP) Expressway and the Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor. 'Game-changer for Haryana', says CM Saini Calling the project a 'game-changer', Saini said the park will bring widespread economic, cultural, and social benefits, not just for Haryana but for the entire country. 'Manesar's proximity to Delhi, its infrastructure, and corporate presence make it the perfect location,' he said after meeting with Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Delhi. Saini said that the objective is to leverage Haryana's connectivity and market potential to create a world-class amusement centre. 'It will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities, develop infrastructure, and bring major changes in the surrounding areas,' he said. Gurugram, already home to several Fortune 500 companies, is a key contributor to the state's economy. The proposed Disneyland-style park will further complement the upcoming Global City project. Saini said. 'Hence, Gurugram is the most suitable location for the proposed Disneyland.' Currently, Disneyland parks operated by the Walt Disney Company are located in California and Florida in the United States, Paris (France), Tokyo (Japan), and Hong Kong. Surajkund to host more cultural events In addition to the entertainment park, the Haryana government is working on positioning the state as a major global destination for spiritual and cultural tourism. Saini shared that the state has proposed hosting three annual melas at Surajkund, expanding the scale of celebrations at the International Gita Mahotsav, and seeking financial assistance from the Centre for the same. The Surajkund Mela, already an iconic event, attracts artisans, folk performers, and artists from across India and abroad. Each year, the fair focuses on the cultural traditions of a different Indian state. 'The Surajkund Mela is not only a celebration of Indian diversity but also a key cultural event that promotes tourism,' Saini said. Haryana eyes spiritual tourism boost To further enrich this platform, the government also plans to organise a Diwali Mela and a Book Fair at Surajkund. 'This initiative will provide an excellent platform for artisans, artists, and folk performers from local, state, national, and international levels to showcase their talent,' he said. Highlighting the significance of the International Gita Mahotsav, the chief minister said it offers a strong opportunity to brand Haryana as a spiritual tourism hub. 'To establish Haryana as a key pilgrimage destination globally, we need active support from the Union Tourism Ministry,' he said, requesting the Centre's help in organising the Mahotsav on a much grander scale. [With agency inputs]
Time of India
3 days ago
- Time of India
Want to bring Disneyland to Gurgaon, says Saini, unveils plan for big tourism push
Gurgaon: The city could play host to India's Disneyland amusement park, chief minister Nayab Singh Saini has said, unveiling ambitious plans to develop areas off the Western Peripheral (KMP) Expressway as tourist destinations. Saini said govt was in talks with officials from Disney and has identified 500 acres of land near Pachgaon Chowk in Manesar for the project. A Disneyland in NCR will be "game-changing", the CM said, after meeting Union culture and tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in Delhi on Wednesday. He said the entertainment hub will bring economic, cultural and social benefits, not only to the state, but the country too. "The project will generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities and bring major changes to the area. It will attract international tourists too," Saini said. You Can Also Check: Gurgaon AQI | Weather in Gurgaon | Bank Holidays in Gurgaon | Public Holidays in Gurgaon Gurgaon, he said, was chosen as the site for the park as many Fortune 500 companies are headquartered in the NCR city, and it gives the state most of its revenue. "The upcoming Global City project in Gurgaon will be another milestone for the region. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pistol de sudură laser multifuncțional siginificant Află mai multe Undo Hence, Gurgaon is the most suitable location for Disneyland. The site in Manesar is strategically located along KMP Expressway and Haryana Orbital Rail Corridor (HORC). People from across NCR can easily visit," Saini said. The Global City project is a 1,000-acre mini-city that the state govt plans to build across sectors 36, 36B, 37 and 37B. Apart from links to the Delhi-Gurgaon and Dwarka expressways, the project will be based on a walk-to-work concept, and all facilities and services will be easily available. Separately, Haryana govt is planning to expand the scale of International Gita Mahotsav, an annual event in Kurukshetra, and organise three melas, instead of one, at Surajkund every year. "Considering the popularity of the Surajkund Mela, govt is planning to organise a Diwali mela and a book fair at Surajkund as well… We have also sought support from the Union tourism ministry and the central govt to organise Gita Mahotsav on a grand scale," he said. The CM added, "Together, these projects will firmly establish Haryana as a tourism hub." Disneyland, if it goes ahead, will be the first to be built in collaboration with the animation giant in India. Earlier this Feb, the Maharashtra govt had announced plans to develop a park inspired by the Disneyland theme in Navi Mumbai. In 1989, then Haryana CM Om Prakash Chautala had proposed to set up Disneyland in Gurgaon but the project was eventually shelved amid opposition by other political parties and farmers whose land would have to be acquired. INLD national president Abhay Singh Chautala said on Thursday BJP must explain its change in stand on establishing Disneyland in the city. "BJP was supporting INLD govt in 1989 but it sided with Congress to oppose the project back then," Abhay said.
