India is set to embark on a cosmic journey like never before with the launch of its first-ever astro tourism campaign, Nakshatra Sabha. Spearheaded by the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board in collaboration with Starscapes, a leading astro tourism company, this initiative aims to unite astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers worldwide to behold the breathtaking wonders of the universe. The campaign promises a comprehensive astro tourism experience, featuring a plethora of activities such as stargazing, special solar observations, astrophotography contests, camping under the stars, and much more.
The Secretary of Tourism, Government of Uttarakhand, expressed great enthusiasm about the campaign, highlighting Uttarakhand’s potential to emerge as a premier destination for astronomy-focused travel. With its expansive forest cover, nature-based tourism offerings, convenient accessibility from major cities, and a well-established hospitality sector including homestays, Uttarakhand is uniquely positioned to captivate astro tourists. The campaign aims to invite visitors from around the globe to immerse themselves in the enchanting mysteries of the cosmos while also offering a glimpse into the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Scheduled to kick off in early June at George Everest, Mussoorie, Nakshatra Sabha will run until mid-2025, featuring a series of immersive events across various locations throughout Uttarakhand. These events will encompass potential dark sky sites in districts such as Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Chamoli, alongside seminars and webinars conducted by experts in the field. By bringing together astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers, the initiative seeks to create a vibrant community united by their fascination with the cosmos.
Beyond offering an extraordinary tourism experience, Nakshatra Sabha holds the promise of fostering economic growth and sustainable development in local communities. The campaign will provide professional training and skill development opportunities to residents, empowering them to actively participate in and benefit from the burgeoning astro tourism industry. Moreover, it will advocate for the preservation of dark skies, with the aim of formulating and implementing a region-wide dark sky preservation policy. Starscapes, in collaboration with local communities, travel partners, and homestay networks, will play a pivotal role in driving these conservation efforts forward.
Key highlights of Nakshatra Sabha include stargazing sessions using specialized equipment, expert talks on astro tourism by industry and academic leaders, an astrophotography contest, and special solar observations. The campaign also seeks to raise awareness and cultivate a network of volunteers and dark sky ambassadors dedicated to preserving the pristine beauty of the night sky. By intertwining tourism, education, and conservation efforts, Nakshatra Sabha is poised to leave an indelible mark on Uttarakhand’s landscape, both literally and figuratively, while offering a glimpse into the awe-inspiring wonders of the universe.