MUSSOORIE: The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) has partnered with Starscapes, an astro-tourism company, to launch ‘Nakshatra Sabha’, a groundbreaking astro-tourism initiative, the first of its kind in India,
In addition to stargazing, this initiative provides participants with the chance to participate in a variety of activities, like special solar observations, astrophotography contests, and camping under the stars.
‘Nakshatra Sabha’ aims to establish an engaging platform where astronomy enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers can come together to appreciate the beauty of the cosmos amidst the natural magnificence of Uttarakhand.
Expressing delight over the project, the Secretary of Tourism for the Government of Uttarakhand underscored the state’s potential to emerge as a premier spot for astronomy-centered tourism.
Uttarakhand’s mix of vast forested areas, nature-centric tourism options, easy reach to major urban centers, and a flourishing hospitality sector, which includes homestays, makes it a prime destination for drawing in astronomy enthusiasts from all over the world, the officer said.
The ‘Nakshatra Sabha’ is set to kick off in early June at the iconic George Everest in Mussoorie and will run until mid-2025, showcasing a range of immersive events at multiple locations across Uttarakhand.
The upcoming events will provide chances for stargazing and discovering potential night sky locations in districts such as Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Chamoli.
Sustainable astro-tourism and community involvement
The initiative will also feature seminars and webinars conducted by industry experts, enhancing the educational aspect of the programme.
In addition to offering specialised training and skill enhancement programmes for local residents passionate about astronomy and tourism, ‘Nakshatra Sabha’ aims to invigorate local economies and champion the conservation of nocturnal landscapes.
The initiative aims to establish a region-wide dark sky preservation policy in Uttarakhand by fostering a community of dedicated ambassadors. Through this approach, the sustainability of astro-tourism in the region will be ensured in the years to come.
‘Nakshatra Sabha’ invites visitors from all corners of the world to embark on a journey that guarantees to be both enlightening and captivating. Whether you are a passionate stargazer, a thrill-seeker, or someone who appreciates the wonders of nature, this initiative provides a distinctive opportunity for all.
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