Dozens of Bollywood songs romanticize stars and the tender ways in which we compare human beauty to them. They’re truly one of the most fascinating aspects of our nature and stargazing one of the most sought-after activities today. As per The Weather Channel, the colder winter night skies have fewer clouds as they “hold less hazy moisture than warm summer skies”. This phenomenon leaves skies in winter clearer and crisper at night than those in summer. India has plenty of places to stargaze that are sure to leave you spellbound. Let’s dive deeper into these best places for stargazing in India this winter.
Best Places For Stargazing In India In Winter
- Spiti Valley
- Tarkarli
- Coorg
- Jaisalmer
- Havelock Islands
- Rann Of Kutch
Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley stands out as one of the most popular stargazing places in India, situated at around 12,500 feet above sea level. The valley is slowly becoming more and more famous for its unadulterated landscapes, beautiful monasteries, pleasant weather, and obviously clear skies. With hardly any atmospheric or light pollution, the night skies in Spiti are some of the most pristine you’ll ever see. Dhankar Lake and Chandratal Lake are two of the best places for stargazing in Spiti Valley. Here, you’ll likely be able to observe your favorite constellations and stars for hours, with no one to distract you from your little stargazing adventure.
How To Reach
By Road: There are two routes to reach Spiti Valley, either by Manali or Shimla. Both have important highways connecting to the valley and are in turn well connected to major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh. Public buses, taxis, as well as private rental cars are available for transport.
By Rail: Joginder Nagar Station and Shimla Railway Station are the closest to Spiti Valley. Taking cabs or buses from there is the best option.
By Air: The Kullu-Manali Airport, located in Bhuntar is the closest airport (227 km). You can hire taxis and buses from the airport.
Tarkarli
Tarkarli in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra is a quaint village known for its pristine beaches, watersports, and temples. The winter skies of Tarkarli offer unadulterated views due to negligible air and light pollution. So, indulge in an authentic Malvani dinner and head to the beach for stargazing. While you’re here, you can also try out snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring the backwaters of the Karli River and the Sindhudurg Fort.
How To Reach
By Road: Tarkarli is well-connected by road. State buses and private cabs run from Mumbai, Pune, and Goa, mainly through NH17 and NH4 (via the Mumbai-Pune Expressway).
By Rail: Kudal is the closest railway station (45 km), and from here you can take an autorickshaw to Tarkarli.
By Air: Dabolim is the closest airport to Tarkarli (132 km) with taxis available from the airport.
Coorg
Fondly known as the ‘Scotland of India’, this pleasant hill station is a top contender in the best places to stargaze in India. Explore the lush green coffee plantations, take a dip in the scenic waterfalls, and end the day with a beautiful view of the night sky. Isn’t it enough to make anyone happy? To get a better stargazing experience, we recommend checking out Mandalpatti or Tadiandamol Peak. And, when you’re not observing the stars and constellations, there’s the reliant Coorg-special coffee waiting for you. During the winters, having it first thing in the morning here is no less than tasting heaven!
How To Reach
By Road: Coorg is well connected to major South Indian cities like Mysore (Mangalore-Mysore Highway) and Bangalore via NH 275.
By Rail: The Mysuru Junction (117 km) is a major railhead connected with several express trains. Bus and taxi services are available from the station.
By Air: Mangalore International Airport (145 km) is the closest one to Coorg. Regular buses and taxis are available from here.
Jaisalmer
A lot has been said about the golden sand dunes of Thar and the exuberant palaces of Jaisalmer. But, it’s time to look beyond and up at the sky, quite literally! Jaisalmer’s calm deserts provide an empty, undisturbed canvas for the Milky Way to spill in front of your eyes. With minimal light pollution and a pleasant, chilly night, the Sam Sand Dunes are popular for stargazing. If you’re planning a trip to Rajasthan, remember not to miss out on this experience in Jaisalmer!
How To Reach
By Road: Jaipur, Jodhpur, Chandigarh, Delhi, and other major cities are well connected to Jaisalmer through various highways.
By Rail: It is well connected to Delhi, Jodhpur, Mumbai, and Jaipur railway junctions.
By Air: Jaisalmer has its own airport, however, due to it being seasonal, you should try Jaipur and Jodhpur airports which are also close-by.
Havelock Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are some of the unconventional tourist destinations in India. But, apart from its dreamy beaches, the islands are popular for their low pollution levels and undisturbed nature. Radhanagar Beach is a popular spot here, known for both its turquoise waters and enchanting night skies. The pleasant summer weather is what attracts tourists to this place, but winters on these islands are no less magical. Especially if you’re a stargazer, you’re in for a delightful experience as every corner is a revelation in itself.
How To Reach
By Air: Port Blair has its own airport, with major Indian cities having flights here.
By Sea: Ferry services operate from the airport to the Havelock Islands.
Rann Of Kutch
The Rann of Kutch stands as one of the largest salt desert in the world. Situated in Gujarat and also extending in parts of Pakistan, this unique desert is known for its vast open skies and barren white land that stretches for miles. At the annual Rann Utsav, which spans over months, one can experience mesmerizing night skies as well as observe the full moon. As this festival falls in winter, it can be a perfect addition to your winter stargazing adventure.
How To Reach Rann Of Kutch
By Road: Most Indian cities are well connected to Bhuj via national highways, which in turn is 85 km away from the Rann of Kutch. Using rental or private cars is the best option.
By Rail: Bhuj is also the closest railhead and is well connected to major Indian railway junctions and routes.
By Air: The Bhuj Airport is the closest and is well connected with flights from Mumbai, Jaipur, and other cities.
Nainital
Nainital, commonly known as the ‘Lake District’, due to its magnificent lakes looks beautiful throughout the day and night, like Naini Lake. It houses Uttarakhand’s first astronomy and space-themed observatory, known as Astrotops Observatory. They’re also known to host the Nakshatra Mahotsav every October in Astro Village, Takula. If you’re a geek for all things space, astronomy, and stargazing, Nainital is no less than a haven for you!
How To Reach Nainital
By Road: Most cities in North India connect to highways that eventually lead to Nainital.
By Rail: Kathgodam is the nearest railhead to Nainital, well connected to major railway stations. From here, you can take a bus or a cab.
By Air: The Pantnagar Airport is the closest to Nainital. From here, you can take a bus or cab to reach this hill station.
Summing Up
Now that you’ve read about the best places to stargaze in India, it is time to pack your bags and set out to experience this starry adventure. Winters are just perfect to try the activity due to the pleasant weather, less humidity, and clear skies. Stargazing in cities is just not possible due to the high air and light pollution, but these places in India are just ideal. So, what are you waiting for?
FAQs
Which Is The Best Place In India For Stargazing?
Here are the best places in India for stargazing:
- Rann of Kutch
- Jaisalmer
- Ladakh
- Coorg
- Spiti Valley
Which Month Is Best For Stargazing In India?
For stargazing in India, the months of winter and early to mid-summer are ideal. The weather is comparatively more soothing, and the humidity is low, allowing stars to be more visible.
Is Winter The Best Time For Stargazing?
Yes, winter is the best time for stargazing.
Is The Milky Way Visible From Rann Of Kutch?
Yes, however, one must be equally observant and patient. The Milky Way is visible from the Rann of Kutch because its terrain is completely flat and offers undisturbed views of the sky.
