If you’re a fan of stars, mountains, high altitudes, and clear skies, we have exciting news for you! Kaza, a famous spot in India’s Spiti Valley, is introducing a new stargazing facility. This is not just a regular attraction; it’s part of an initiative to elevate the area as a top destination for astrophotography while also supporting local tribal businesses. The project is being spearheaded by the Himachal Pradesh Council for Science, Technology, and Environment (HIMCOSTE) under the state’s Department of Environment, Science, Technology, and Climate Change. Get ready for a unique travel experience!
State Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced this news on X, formerly known as Twitter, and inaugurated the stargazing facility on July 7, 2025.
आज शिमला से ज़िला लाहौल-स्पीति के काज़ा में स्टार गेजिंग सुविधा का शुभारंभ किया।
इस अवसर पर दो स्थानीय लाभार्थियों को उच्च स्तरीय कम्प्यूटरीकृत दूरबीन (स्काई-वॉचर बीकेडीओबी 8’’ कोलैप्सिबल गोटो) प्रदान की। काज़ा, लांगज़ा और रंगरिक के लोग इस सुविधा में रुचि दिखा रहे हैं तथा उन्हें… pic.twitter.com/qUNpjkZGYH
— Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu (@SukhuSukhvinder) July 7, 2025
To celebrate the launch, two residents received high-quality Sky-Watcher BKDOB 8” Collapsible GOTO telescopes for hosting night sky viewing sessions for visitors. Others from Kaza, Langza, and Rangrik are also signing up to receive training and telescopes.
Kaza Is All Set To Host Sessions For Visitors With GOTO Telescopes
The Chief Minister described this initiative as a unique effort to capitalise on Spiti’s clear skies and minimal light pollution. It aims to combine science, tourism, and local livelihoods in remote tribal areas.
The government is also working to involve homestay and hotel owners to expand this project. The Additional Deputy Commissioner’s office in Spiti is coordinating the stargazing program.
A tripartite agreement has been established between HIMCOSTE, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, and the Central University of Himachal Pradesh for scientific support and sustainability.
The next time you visit Spiti Valley, you’ll see a sky full of stars and get lost in a world of galaxies.
