Winter Vacation: Take Your Kids Stargazing At These Incredible Cities Across India

Imagine sitting under a vast, star-filled sky, marvelling at its beauty with nothing to do but admire the twinkling stars above. India too, perhaps inherently, always had a mysterious side that continues to draw visitors from all over the world. It also offers exceptional destinations for stargazing, some more famous than others, due to their remoteness and minimal artificial light. Unlike cities where street lights and skyscrapers obscure the night sky, these locations offer clear, unobstructed views.Between October and February, lower humidity and fewer bugs create ideal conditions for stargazing in India, with cooler nights that make it pleasant for families and travellers with pets.

Spiti Valley, Himachal PradeshHigh in the Himalayas, Spiti Valley stands out as one of India’s top stargazing destinations. At 12,500 feet above sea level, it’s far from atmospheric pollution and city lights, offering a pristine view of the stars. While much has been said and written about its daunting trails and spectacular views, the valley also offers its visitors unfettered views of the Milky Way, coupled with shooting stars and stunning constellations.

Pangong Tso Lake, LadakhLadakh is renowned worldwide for stargazing, with its high altitude and minimal light pollution providing clear views of the Milky Way. At over 3,000 metres above sea level, Pangong Tso Lake’s clean air and low annual precipitation make it perfect for stargazers. When here, make sure to also visit the Indian Astronomical Observatory in Hanle for a stargazing night. Churu, RajasthanIn Rajasthan’s desert state, the small town of Churu provides an extraordinary stargazing experience. Its remote location and low light pollution make it ideal for observing the night sky. The high altitude and dry climate improve visibility, and the mostly clear skies year-round enhance the experience, making Churu a unique stargazing destination.

Sonmarg, Jammu and KashmirCamping in Sonmarg offers one of the most unforgettable stargazing experiences. At 2,800 metres above sea level, Sonmarg has minimal air disturbance, enhancing the clarity of the night sky. Its secluded location means low air and noise pollution, allowing for a quiet, clear view of the stars, perfect for astrophotography and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

Coorg, KarnatakaIn Coorg, the “Scotland of India,” stargazing adds to the region’s natural beauty. With clear skies, limited light pollution, and high altitude, Coorg in the Western Ghats is a popular destination for stargazing. The hill station’s elevation reduces air distortion, providing clear nighttime visibility, while the surrounding hills, valleys, and forests create a scenic backdrop. Also Read: Lachen, SikkimNestled in Sikkim, the small town of Lachen is celebrated for its scenic landscapes and unique culture. At an altitude of 2,750 metres, Lachen offers a breathtakingly dark night sky, surrounded by mountains that block out light pollution. Stargazing in Lachen is best during the clear, dry winter months from October to March, making it a favourite among astronomy enthusiasts.