New stargazing facility opens in India’s Spiti Valley New stargazing facility opens in India’s Spiti Valley

Astro-tourism is one of the biggest trends in travel right now, and if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination for stargazing, we have just the place for you: Spiti Valley.

Located in India’s northern mountain state Himachal Pradesh, a new stargazing facility has just opened in Kaza that looks to take advantage of the area’s pristine night skies, minimal light pollution and high-altitude clarity.

Part of a new programme under the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology & Environment (HIMCOSTE) of Environment, Science Technology & Climate Change of Himachal Pradesh, the new facility will be run by members of the local tribal community.

While two locals are being trained now, it is hoped that other home-stay and hotel owners will take part in the project in the future.

Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said, “It is a new beginning in the history of the State and will strengthen the local economy by attracting more tourists in the area.”

Kaza is the largest settlement in the Spiti Valley, which is also home to Tabo, known for its monastic complex which was founded more than 1,000 years ago, and Chandra Taal, or ‘moon lake’.

The nearest airports to Spiti Valley are Bhuntar and Shimla, which you can reach via New Delhi. After that, you will need to drive.

More information: himachaltourism.gov.in