Away from the commotions and pollution of urban life, imagine a night lying under a star-studded sky, and the time comes to a magical standstill. April makes it legit for you to experience it in real. Why? It is the Global Astronomy Month (GAM). 2022 marks the 13th year of GAM, and the event is organized by Astronomers Without Border. It is the world’s largest annual global revelry of astronomy to bring astronomy enthusiasts, literally, under one sky.
Though there are a few days left in April 2022, one can still celebrate this fascinating event by visiting some of the best spots in northern India, famed for stargazing. Embark on an extraterrestrial journey and get starry-eyed!
1. Henle
Any Indian astrophile would swear by Henle in Ladakh. It homes the Indian Astronomical Observatory, one of the world-highest sites situated at a massive height of 4,500mt above sea level. Equipped with two optical, infrared, and gamma-ray telescopes, it is the ultimate place for stargazing. Due to its location, this place is almost free from pollution and humidity. It offers clear visibility of the night sky almost throughout the year. No wonder Henle is also known as the Moonland on Earth.
2. Spiti
Ask any hardcore traveler to name a place they would equate with magic; the unanimous answer would be Spiti Valley. Strategically located at the height of 10,000 – 15,000 above sea level, this place is heaven for stargazing. Experts suggest that one must consider including ideal spots such as Loasr, Tabo, Dhankar, Kiber, and Komik. One would be enchanted, gawking at the infinite stars, planets, constellations, and many heavenly bodies and wondering how tiny we are in front of such vastness.
Also, read: This 29-YO Guy Is Making People Fall In Love Again With The Sky Via Stargazing Tours
3. Turtuk
Turtuk has a special mention among India’s northernmost villages. It is located in the Nubra Valley, Ladakh, and is enveloped by tall and mighty mountains. To enter this valley, one needs to get a permit from the concerned authorities, as Turtuk is one of the gateways to Siachen Glacier. Nestled at 3001mt altitude, Nubra offers a breathtaking view of the night sky. One can spot their favorite stellar bodies with ease here. The best season happens to be from April to June, and the next phase is from September to October.
4. Pangong TSO
Perched at an elevation of 4,225mt, this lake is famed for its fascinating view of changing colors. As the sun goes down and night starts tiptoeing, the Pangong Tso’s landscape transforms into surreal. The water body mirrors the starry sky, and one remains in awe of nature and its miracles. Ideally, one must trek up to this spot and pitch a tent around the lake. The ideal period for stargazing at Pangong Tso is from the end of April to September.
5. Rann of Kutch
Many of us identify the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat for its salt marshland. But hold on, as it has much more to offer. A night spent under its open sky has left all smitten who have experienced it. One of its USPs is seeing the rare light wonder dubbed as Ghost Lights, locally referred to as Chir Batti. On dark nights, this mysterious light as luminous as a mercury lamp, usually measuring two to ten feet above the ground, appears and rapidly changes to blue, yellow, and red colors. It is extremely swift and can also halt suddenly. Locals caution visitors not to chase them as one gets misled and lost in the wilderness.
There are tour organizers for stargazing at these spots. Besides, one can take the help of local guides and be a self-motivated explorer. For the latter, don’t forget to carry your telescope, refractor, red flashlight, or a basic beginner tool kit.