Your guide to the galaxy - go stargazing at these unique destinations in India
Love starry skies? Booking.com, the leading digital travel platform, has curated a list of 6 offbeat destinations offering astonishing views of clear skies to stargaze in India, when it is safe to do so. These trip-worthy dark-sky havens offer stellar celestial views that you are sure to remember for a long, long time!
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Mandarmani is a little-known seaside village in West Bengal that derives its name from the profusion of small red crabs (which look like the red flower, mandar) that have made the village’s pristine beaches their home. The clear night sky that one can witness at this pretty place is apt for spotting stars. Couples must definitely plan a small escapade to this village during the full moon, which is considered to be the most romantic time to watch the night sky with almost zero pollution. And while you are there, book yourself a comfortable resort stay by the beach
Located 30 kms from Patna, Taregna is a small village in Bihar that has a history of star-gazing. Known as the location of Aryabhatta’s astronomical observatory in the 6th century, Taregna which roughly translates to ‘counting stars’ exploded into the stargazing universe during the 2009 solar eclipse when it was declared as one of the top places in India to watch the phenomena. This small town in Bihar is easily accessible and promises a star-studded sky. Star-gazers can park themselves in quaint hotels in and around the Taregna village to enjoy the night-skies
Accessible for 8 months of the year except July and August, the Curzon trail at Kuari pass is home to five sacred river confluences in the Garhwal Himalayas. Known to be a moderate trek, Kuari pass offers a spectacular view of the Himalayas both in time of the sun and the moon. At nightime, the sky becomes a kaleidoscope of stars and if you are lucky, you might even catch a shooting star. One can camp in their tents or sleeping bags at several points as they trek to the peak of Kuari pass
An untouched beauty tucked away near Lonavala, Lake Shirota in Maharashtra is a perfect destination for travellers looking for a quiet getaway from their busy lives. Shirota Lake camping is all about relaxing and having a peaceful time amidst nature. Apart from camping, Shirota is also a haven for star lovers where one can lay down under the sky full of stars and watch the constellations. Make the entire experience worthwhile by either camping by the lake or booking a homestay in Rajmachi village
Known to be one of the hidden spots in Sikkim, Katao in Yumthang Valley is a peaceful destination that awaits you. One can travel to Katao for some thrilling treks overlooking the snow capped mountains. This surreal mountain offers the onlookers different parts of the Milky Way Galaxy. One must definitely plan a trip to this destination to watch the sky unfold over the night. Adventure enthusiasts can engage in skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and stone grinding here during winters. One has to avail permits from the army to enter the area Katao is located in. Amidst all the adventures, one can park themselves in budget hotels located near Katao.
Located at an altitude of 3400 m above sea level and one of the highest peaks in Shimla region, Haku peak is perfect for travellers looking for a much needed escape away from the crowd. Surrounded by the Himalayan Ranges, it is one of the most fascinating attractions of Narkanda town. Around 7-8kms uphill drive from Narkanda town, Hatu Peak is ideal for trekking, camping and also offers a beautiful opportunity for stargazing in the night. There are not too many options to stay in Hatu, travellers can either come and set up their own tents or book a cozy homestay nearby
Fulfill your stargazing dreams with unparalleled views of the night sky at these enchanting destinations in India!
