Ladakh organized its inaugural Astro Tourism Festival on June 27–28, 2025, to promote scientific awareness and stargazing-based tourism.

The event brought together scientists, educators, students, and travelers under the pristine skies of Leh and the Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, aiming to establish Ladakh as a hub for astro-tourism.

Key Points:

• The two-day festival was held at the District Panchayat Resource Centre in Leh and the University of Ladakh’s Taru Campus, attracting students, locals, and tourists.
• The event was jointly organized by the Ladakh Tourism Department and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), with support from the Deputy Commissioner of Leh.
• Daytime activities included expert talks, lectures, and interactive science sessions by ISRO scientists and astrophysicists from IIA and Kashmir University.
• Visitors participated in telescope-assisted stargazing sessions at Hanle Dark Sky Reserve, India’s first designated dark sky zone, known for its high-altitude and low-light pollution.
• The festival blended science education with local culture and community participation, supporting sustainable tourism and encouraging youth engagement with astronomy.