The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) has partnered with Starscapes, one of India’s leading astrotourism companies, to launch Nakshatra Sabha — a pioneering initiative designed to bring people closer to the universe through a comprehensive astrotourism experience. This visionary collaboration marks a major milestone in positioning Uttarakhand as India’s premier destination for astro-travel and dark-sky exploration.
The Nakshatra Sabha project is not merely a tourism event; it represents a growing global movement that combines science, education, conservation, and adventure. With this initiative, the state aims to inspire curiosity about space, celebrate India’s astronomical heritage, and boost sustainable rural tourism in the Himalayan region.
A Universe of Experiences Under the Open Sky
The campaign will feature a rich array of experiences and activities crafted for travelers, families, students, and professionals alike. Visitors will have opportunities to engage in stargazing sessions guided by experts using high-quality telescopes and modern optical equipment. Participants can also take part in special solar viewing programs where safe solar filters and telescopes will allow them to observe sunspots, solar flares, and other fascinating celestial phenomena during the day.
For photography enthusiasts, astrophotography contests and workshops will be a major highlight. These sessions will teach visitors how to capture the beauty of the Milky Way, constellations, and meteor showers using both professional cameras and mobile devices. Beyond observation, guests will enjoy camping under the stars, storytelling sessions about Indian constellations, and discussions connecting astronomy with traditional Himalayan folklore.
The overall goal is to create a blend of science and culture, turning the night sky into a living classroom that bridges the gap between cosmic curiosity and local wisdom.
A Vision Rooted in Sustainability and Local Development
The Tourism Secretary, Government of Uttarakhand, expressed deep enthusiasm for the initiative, emphasizing that Nakshatra Sabha aligns perfectly with the state’s long-term vision for eco-friendly tourism. Uttarakhand, known for its pristine landscapes and cultural richness, offers a rare combination of clear skies, high altitude, and low light pollution — the ideal conditions for stargazing.
With abundant forest cover, a strong tradition of nature-based tourism, and convenient access from major metropolitan centers such as Delhi and Dehradun, the state is well positioned to attract astro-tourists from across the world. The region’s well-developed hospitality infrastructure, including eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and homestays, adds another layer of comfort and authenticity for visitors seeking immersive travel experiences.
Crucially, the Nakshatra Sabha campaign has been designed to benefit local communities. By offering vocational training and skill development programs, residents will gain new employment opportunities as sky guides, hospitality staff, and eco-tour operators. The campaign’s organizers believe that empowering local people with scientific and tourism knowledge will create a sustainable model that strengthens rural economies while preserving the environment.
A Journey Across Uttarakhand’s Cosmic Landscapes
The Nakshatra Sabha will officially begin in early June 2025 at the iconic George Everest point in Mussoorie — a scenic location named after the famous British surveyor and geographer. From there, the initiative will continue through mid-2025, expanding to multiple destinations across the state.
Each event in the series will focus on a different celestial theme and region, ensuring that participants experience diverse landscapes and skies. Some of the selected districts include Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Chamoli, each offering unique geographical and cultural appeal. For instance, Nainital — historically associated with astronomical research — hosts the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), making it a fitting venue for science-based activities. Similarly, Pithoragarh’s remote mountain terrain offers one of the darkest night skies in India, providing unmatched opportunities for deep-sky observation.
In addition to outdoor experiences, Nakshatra Sabha will feature seminars, panel discussions, and webinars led by renowned scientists, astrophotographers, and educators. These sessions will focus on topics such as the basics of astronomy, the future of astrotourism in India, and the importance of preserving dark skies for future generations.
Conserving the Night Sky: A Call to Protect the Cosmos
One of the most visionary aspects of the Nakshatra Sabha project is its commitment to dark sky conservation. Light pollution has become a growing concern worldwide, diminishing the visibility of stars and affecting both human health and wildlife. The campaign aims to raise awareness about responsible lighting practices and encourage communities to adopt “dark-sky friendly” infrastructure, such as shielded streetlights and controlled illumination in tourist zones.
Supported by a network of local ambassadors, volunteers, and environmental groups, the program seeks to establish Uttarakhand’s first Dark Sky Conservation Policy within the coming year. This policy would not only regulate artificial lighting but also promote the state as a model for sustainable night sky tourism in India.
Through partnerships with astronomers, conservationists, and local panchayats, the initiative will work to identify official dark-sky sites, where light pollution is minimized and natural darkness is preserved. These certified areas could later join international dark-sky networks, further enhancing Uttarakhand’s visibility on the global tourism map.
Education, Outreach, and Inspiration
Another major pillar of Nakshatra Sabha is education. The initiative will collaborate with schools, colleges, and universities to organize astronomy camps and night observation programs for students. These interactive sessions are designed to ignite scientific curiosity and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.
Workshops on basic telescope handling, constellation mapping, and astrophotography techniques will provide hands-on learning experiences. At the same time, awareness sessions on space exploration, satellite technology, and India’s achievements in astronomy will inspire a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and explorers.
By combining formal and informal learning, Nakshatra Sabha aims to transform Uttarakhand into a living laboratory for astronomy education, where travelers, teachers, and scientists can come together under the same stars.
Building a Global Astrotourism Identity
Astrotourism has been gaining momentum across the world, from desert observatories in Chile to national parks in the United States. However, India’s unique geography and cultural heritage make it especially well-suited for the growth of this niche tourism sector.
Uttarakhand’s Himalayan backdrop, clear atmosphere, and spiritual aura provide the perfect setting for cosmic tourism that goes beyond leisure. Visitors will not only witness the universe through telescopes but also explore the ancient Indian tradition of Nakshatras — lunar mansions mentioned in Vedic astrology. This fusion of modern science and ancient wisdom gives the initiative its distinctive character and global appeal.
In the long term, the UTDB and Starscapes plan to integrate Nakshatra Sabha into broader tourism circuits, connecting it with adventure travel, eco-tourism, and wellness retreats. Such integration will strengthen the region’s tourism economy while diversifying the experiences offered to both domestic and international visitors.
Looking Ahead
The Nakshatra Sabha represents more than just a seasonal event — it is a long-term vision to make Uttarakhand a center for astro-education, dark sky protection, and sustainable tourism. By merging scientific exploration with community participation and environmental responsibility, the initiative reflects a forward-thinking approach to travel and discovery.
As travelers set up their tents beneath the shimmering Himalayan sky, surrounded by silence and starlight, they will not only witness the grandeur of the cosmos but also become part of a movement to protect and celebrate the night itself. With every telescope focused upward and every story shared around a campfire, Uttarakhand’s night sky will continue to inspire awe, unity, and a renewed respect for our planet’s place in the universe.