Astro-tourism on the rise: Top places to visit and things to do to catch starry nights
Light pollution surging in the cities has obscured the pretty night skies. City lights of the skyline now dominate the night sky instead of constellations, depriving many of natural starry views. Instead, an empty, greyish, washed-out sky looms over the city. City dwellers, tired of this light-flooded, ashy sky, are heading to quieter, darker spots to catch a sky full of bright stars for a change.
This marks the rise of astro-tourism, or astronomical tourism, which is rooted in observing the night sky through key activities like stargazing, moongazing, sky photography, and viewing celestial objects and events. Constellations, planets, and meteor showers are best seen in 'darker' regions where city lights don't interfere. High-powered telescopes are also used for closer, much more detailed views of the celestial objects in the sky.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Gajendra Singh Rathore, Founder and Managing Director of Jungle Camps India (JCI), explained how astro-tourism is becoming popular in India.
He said, 'Astro tourism is becoming very popular in India. What was once a hobby for a few people is now a common travel choice. According to Skyscanner, it will be one of the top travel trends for Indians in 2025. More and more people are looking for unique experiences like stargazing, night sky photography, and sleeping under the stars. The global astro tourism market, valued at $250 million in 2023, is projected to grow at a 10% CAGR, reaching $400 million by 2030, with India emerging as a prime destination due to its natural dark sky reserves and growing infrastructure.'
Several regions across India that have low light pollution are now tapping into the rising interest in astro-tourism by offering celestial experiences in naturally dark and scenic landscapes.
Gajendra Singh Rathore elaborated, 'Pench Tiger Reserve, now India's first Dark Sky Park, hosts special tours where visitors enjoy guided stargazing, astrophotography, jungle safaris, and campfire gatherings under clear, dark skies. Locations such as Chopta, Binsar, Leh-Ladakh, Spiti Valley, and Jaisalmer are also launching astro tourism events, making it easier for people to explore the stars while surrounded by nature.'
Gajendra further shared this guide for astro-tourism, from the best places to what things one can do in an astro-tourism spot:
A post shared by PENCH JUNGLE CAMP (@penchjunglecamp)
A post shared by KANHA JUNGLE CAMP (@kanhajunglecamp_)
A post shared by TADOBA JUNGLE CAMP (@tadobajunglecamp_)
A post shared by Condé Nast Traveller India (@cntravellerindia)
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
6 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Camping but make it luxe and comfortable: Glamping is the new travel trend that redefines nature exploration
Wilderness exploration, and nature in general, is not for the faint-hearted. It's easy to romanticise the idea of fishing, walking down forest trails, and sleeping under starlit skies, but the reality can humble you real quick with so many unanticipated situatuons, from unpredictable weather, makeshift shelters, improvising meals out of questionable things in the wild, to bugs that just don't quit bugging; it will be only a few days (or maybe hours) before your patience runs out. But what if it doesn't have to be a battle of endurance? Glamping is one such trend that aims to smooth out the outdoor experience, without any of the gritty Hunger Games-style survival drama. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Pardeep Kumar Siwach, Deputy General Manager, Accommodation, Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, shared about the surge of a new trend called glamping, a new, unique way of exploring the outdoors. He said, 'For a long time, the word 'camping' conjured images of sleeping bags on rocky ground, communal washrooms, and cooking over an open fire. It was an escape for the adventurous, that was raw, rugged, and rewarding in its way, but as travel evolves, so do the expectations of travellers. Enter glamping, a travel trend that infuses outdoor adventure with indoor indulgence. Glamping is not a trend that will fade with time; it speaks to a deeper shift in how we perceive rest, connection, and meaning in travel. In combining thoughtful design with raw beauty, it offers something rare in today's fast-moving world- the chance to experience luxury without walls. This style of travel is particularly well-suited to India's lesser-explored yet spectacular northeastern region, where the natural landscape is dramatic." ALSO READ: Always overpacking your travel itinerary? Here's how to plan according to your family size Pardeep Kumar shared a detailed guide with HT Lifestyle, explaining more about glamping and how it is different: What sets glamping apart is the experience of: ALSO READ: Trip finally out of group chat? 6 smart hacks and 4 mistakes every Gen Z planning gateway with friends should know
NDTV
6 hours ago
- NDTV
7 Popular Temples Of North India Everyone Should Know About... And Visit
India is a land of rich heritage, known across the globe for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and deep spiritual roots. Perhaps that's why not only Indians but also people from around the world visit its ancient religious sites. While South India is known for its grand temple architecture, North India too is home to many revered temples that are important pilgrimage destinations. From Vrindavan to Vaishno Devi and Kedarnath, these sacred places attract lakhs of devotees every year. If you're planning a spiritual journey, here's a list of must-visit temples in North India you should consider. Here Are 7 Popular Temples In North India Vishwanath Temple - Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Located on the western banks of the Ganges in Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is counted among the twelve Jyotirlingas and holds immense significance in Hinduism. The ideal time to visit is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. 2. Vaishno Devi Temple - Katra, Jammu Situated in the Trikuta hills near Katra, the Vaishno Devi Temple is one of the most visited shrines in India. Dedicated to Goddess Durga, the temple lies inside a cave and sees a constant flow of devotees throughout the year. The trek to the temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, especially in the cooler evening hours. 3. Amarnath Cave Temple - Jammu & Kashmir The Amarnath Temple, located in a remote cave in the Himalayas, is a significant shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. Inside the cave, a naturally formed ice Shivalinga appears every year, attracting devotees from across the country. The Amarnath Yatra is held annually between July and August and requires prior registration. It is considered one of the most challenging pilgrimages in India, with special arrangements made by the government for pilgrims' safety. 4. Manikaran Sahib - Himachal Pradesh Located in the Kullu district, Manikaran Sahib is a sacred site for both Sikhs and Hindus. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, this Gurudwara is famous for its hot water springs, believed to have healing properties. Its serene setting makes it a peaceful spot for spiritual reflection. 5. Badrinath Temple - Uttarakhand Badrinath Temple is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas, it opens only for six months a year-from the end of April to early November-due to extreme weather conditions. Pilgrims flock here during the open season to seek blessings in this tranquil, high-altitude temple. 6. Golden Temple - Amritsar, Punjab Also known as Harmandir Sahib or Darbar Sahib, the Golden Temple is the most important spiritual site for Sikhs. Situated in the middle of a sacred pond and covered in gold, it is a symbol of peace and equality. Devotees believe that taking a dip in the holy water can heal physical ailments. The temple is open to visitors throughout the year. 7. Kedarnath Temple - Uttarakhand One of the holiest Hindu temples, Kedarnath is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is part of both the Char Dham and Jyotirlinga circuits. Located in Rudraprayag district, it is open only between April and November due to heavy snowfall in the region. The trek to Kedarnath is challenging but spiritually rewarding. Whether you seek peace, blessings, or a connection with India's ancient spirituality, these temples of North India offer a divine experience. If you're planning a religious trip, consider including these sacred destinations on your itinerary.
India Gazette
7 hours ago
- India Gazette
After Pahalgam terror attack, J-K strives to revive tourism with grand musical night in Bhaderwah
Bhaderwah (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], June 5 (ANI): The Pahalgam terror attack has severely impacted the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, and the government is making strong efforts to restore confidence and revive travel to the region. As part of this initiative, the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, administration and Bhaderwah Development Authority organised a grand musical night in the picturesque town of Bhaderwah. The event brought together artists, cultural performers, and Bollywood celebrities to celebrate local heritage and peace. Held under tight security, the night was marked by vibrant music, traditional performances, and a warm display of Bhaderwah's hospitality, drawing both locals and visitors. Local residents and stakeholders in the tourism sector welcomed the initiative, expressing hope that such cultural programs would not only promote tourism but also restore livelihoods linked to the travel industry. The scenic beauty of Bhaderwah, often referred to as 'Mini Kashmir,' served as the perfect backdrop for the event, reinforcing the region's potential as a peaceful and attractive tourist Bollywood actor Sunny Hinduja, while attending the grand musical night in Bhaderwah, hailed the region's beauty and peaceful atmosphere. 'We are here to show the world that Bhaderwah is not only beautiful, but also completely peaceful. Come experience its weather, nature, and warmth,' he said, encouraging tourists to visit the hidden gem of Jammu and Kashmir. Chandan Roy Sanyal added, 'Bhaderwah is a beautiful place with a completely peaceful atmosphere. I would like to tell everyone to come here at least once with their family and friends and experience the love and beauty of this place. The music you hear behind me symbolises that everything here is calm, safe, and perfectly fine.' Sharib Hashmi said, 'Wherever we've gone in Jammu and Kashmir, we've felt completely safe. And looking at the atmosphere here, it doesn't feel its unsafe are anything happened here. The people here themselves are saying confidently that the place is absolutely safe.I want to appeal to all Indians to come here. There are so many truly beautiful places -- everyone should visit. When we go back to Mumbai, we'll tell everyone: go to Jammu, go to Kashmir, and definitely visit Bhaderwah.' (ANI)
