A stargazer’s guide: When and where to see India’s most stunning night skies

There’s something magical about looking up at a sky full of stars, far from the glare of city lights. India, with its dramatic landscapes like towering mountains, vast deserts and remote plateaus offers some of the most spectacular stargazing experiences in the world.

With noctourism, or astro-tourism, projected as a major trend this year by several travel reports, more travellers are venturing into the night sky.

What is noctourism?

Noctourism, also known as astro-tourism, is about travelling to places with minimal light pollution to experience the night sky. It includes stargazing, watching meteor showers, and exploring celestial events.

"It's a gateway to understanding the universe," says Harsimran Singh, a Mumbai-based content creator. Sachin Bahmba, founder of Astroport Global, which runs observatories and stargazing resorts in India, adds, "This industry can transform economies and expand people's minds." By combining tourism with scientific exploration, the sector could create new job opportunities, foster innovation, and encourage a deeper connection with the universe.

When to go: Timing is everything

The best time to stargaze in India is between November and February when the air is crisp, and the skies are clear. This is when humidity is low, and pollution levels drop, especially in the mountains and deserts.

"Stargazers, focus on two key periods: the summer sky and the winter sky. This is because certain constellations are visible only during specific seasons, making it essential to plan accordingly," says Ramashish Ray, founder of Starscapes.

Further, he advises avoiding nights with a bright moon, as its full brightness can overpower other celestial objects. For telescope viewing, time it with special events or moon phases.

How to pick the perfect spot

Choosing the perfect stargazing spot is essential for a breathtaking experience. "Your geographical coordinates determine what celestial objects you can see, from the Milky Way to specific constellations. Timing is also crucial; to witness a particular astronomical event, one must visit the right place at the right time," Ray adds.

The first priority is low light pollution. Urban areas are too bright, so head far from city lights for the best visibility. High-altitude locations, such as mountains and plateaus, provide thinner air, reducing atmospheric distortion for clearer views.

Minimal cloud cover is another crucial factor. Dry regions like Ladakh and Rajasthan often offer consistently clear skies, making them ideal for stargazing.

Lastly, consider accessibility and comfort. While the best spots may require some effort to reach, they should still be safe and manageable. A well-chosen location enhances the celestial spectacle, letting you witness planets, galaxies, and meteor showers in their full glory.

India’s top stargazing destinations:

With a country this vast, there’s no shortage of breathtaking night skies. But some places stand out:

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

The Spiti Valley, often dubbed Little Tibet, is a haven for those seeking a celestial show. "A streak of galaxy dust right in front, with a million twinkling stars and distant, bright planets, with broken meteors passing every minute was just breathtakingly beautiful. We’d step out every night, covered like eskimos to count the shooting stars," says content creator Rijuta Banerjee who visited Spiti in October and then shared a post on Instagram.

Moreover, Langza Village is a top spot for stargazing in Spiti, according to travel experts. For a quieter experience away from the crowds, Kibber, one of the highest villages in the world, is a great choice. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for those looking for a calm escape.

Rann of Kutch, Gujarat

The Rann of Kutch is a place where the land and sky merge into one. The best time to visit is during the Rann Utsav (November–February) where you can witness the cultural festival in the daytime and go for a stargazing experience in the night. But it's also recommended in the off-season for a peaceful night-time experience.

The village of Dhordo, with its rustic atmosphere, provides a quiet retreat. A little further off, the black salt desert of Banni also offers an untouched stargazing experience.

Coorg, Karnataka

Coorg, known for its misty hills and coffee plantations, offers a stargazing experience without the altitude or cold weather.

The view from places like the Raja’s Seat offers a panoramic look at the night sky without a large crowd. For something even quieter, explore the less-visited towns of Virajpet or Madikeri.

Dzuko Valley, Nagaland

Nagaland, in the northeastern part of India, is a hidden gem for stargazing. Known for its scenic hills, it offers crystal-clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it ideal for spotting stars.

Head to places like Dzuko Valley, where the high altitude and peaceful surroundings create a perfect stargazing environment. The remote villages of Mon and Kiphire also offer stunning views of the night sky.

Hanley, Ladakh

For a more tranquil experience away from the crowds, Hanley, a small village in Ladakh, offers some of the clearest skies in the region. Situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters, this remote spot is surrounded by barren landscapes.

Hanley is also home to the Hanley Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best locations in the world for stargazing, offering an opportunity to witness celestial wonders. Consider camping or staying in traditional homestays for a more immersive experience. The best months to visit are March to October.

For stargazing enthusiasts, India offers a wealth of exciting opportunities to explore the night sky.

Groups like Universia and Starscapes’ Nakshatra Sabha organise captivating star events, while Astroport, India’s first astronomy resort, offers guided sessions and telescopes for an up-close celestial experience.

For those seeking a peaceful getaway, the Stargazing Cottage in Uttarakhand provides the perfect mountain retreat for stargazing amid serene surroundings.