The Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board has collaborated with Starscapes to introduce ‘Nakshatra Sabha’, the inaugural Astro Tourism campaign in India.
Starscapes, a renowned Astro Tourism company, in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board, is set to provide unique and immersive experiences such as stargazing, special solar observations, astrophotography contests, and camping under the stars. The inaugural event is scheduled to commence in early June 2024.
The initiative is set to provide a variety of experiences such as stargazing, unique solar observations, astrophotography competitions, overnight camping beneath the stars, and additional activities. Its goal is to unite individuals passionate about astronomy, thrill-seekers, and explorers to appreciate the beauty of the universe.
Uttarakhand’s Secretary of Tourism has enthusiastically expressed their anticipation for the project, emphasizing the state’s immense potential to emerge as a leading hub for astronomy-focused travel. With its extensive forest cover, nature-centric tourism offerings, easy accessibility to major cities, and a thriving hospitality sector that includes homestays, Uttarakhand is strategically positioned to allure Astro Tourists from around the globe.
The Nakshatra Sabha is set to commence in early June at George Everest in Mussoorie and will run until mid-2025. The event will showcase a range of immersive activities at different venues throughout Uttarakhand. These activities will focus on identifying promising stargazing spots in districts like Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, and Chamoli, as well as hosting seminars and webinars conducted by industry professionals.
Furthermore, the initiative focuses on enhancing the skills of local residents and providing them with professional training opportunities, while also working towards boosting local economies and advocating for the protection of night skies. By cultivating a group of ambassadors dedicated to preserving dark skies in Uttarakhand, Nakshatra Sabha will endeavour to implement a region-wide policy for dark sky preservation within the upcoming year.
Starscapes will work in close partnership with local communities, travel and tourism partners, as well as homestay communities to offer training and continuous assistance for these projects.
