Ladakh is hosting its first-ever astro festival. This comes as a significant milestone in the region’s burgeoning astrotourism sector. This inaugural event aims to attract amateur astronomers, astrophotographers, and enthusiasts of the night sky to the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, which is renowned for its exceptional astronomical viewing conditions. The Union Territory鈥檚 Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, will host this two-day celestial event from June 27 to 28, 2025. Celebrating Dark Sky TourismThe festival will take place at the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, located within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. This area is distinguished as India’s first Dark Sky Reserve and spans 22 kilometres, housing the Indian Astronomical Observatory, operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. The high-altitude setting, coupled with minimal light pollution and atmospheric interference, positions Hanle as one of the premier locations in India for astronomical observations. The Ladakh Astro Festival will focus on promoting dark sky tourism, a growing niche in travel that capitalises on the region’s natural advantages. With its dry climate and clear skies, Ladakh provides ideal conditions for observing celestial events and deep-sky objects. The festival aims to create a platform for stargazing, educational sessions, and community engagement around the wonders of the cosmos. Engaging The Community And VisitorsThe government of Ladakh is spearheading the organisation of this event, collaborating with scientific institutions to ensure a comprehensive experience for participants. Activities will include guided stargazing sessions, workshops led by experts, and opportunities for attendees to connect with fellow enthusiasts. The festival is expected to be scheduled in the near future, with specific dates yet to be announced. It comes at a time when astrotourism is gaining momentum globally, and Ladakh seeks to position itself as a leading destination in this emerging field. Boosting Local Economy Through TourismBy leveraging its unique environmental conditions, the Ladakh Astro Festival aims to boost the local economy through niche tourism. The event is anticipated to attract not only local visitors but also tourists from across the country and beyond, thereby enhancing the region’s visibility on the global tourism map. As Ladakh continues to embrace its identity as a hub for astrotourism, the first-ever astro festival promises to be a celebration of the cosmos, inviting all cosmic souls to explore the beauty of the night sky. This initiative underscores the region’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism while fostering a greater appreciation for the wonders of astronomy.