Ladakh is ready to make history as Southeast Asia’s premier Night Sky Sanctuary, a significant leap in India’s astro-tourism drive. The sanctuary, located in Hanle village within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, is the result of collaboration between the Union Territory Administration, Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh, and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics Bengaluru. Their joint effort aims to designate Hanle village as a Dark Sky Reserve, building on its reputation as India’s first dark sky reserve. Hanle’s secluded setting, high altitude, and minimal light pollution create unmatched conditions for stargazing.
Perched at an elevation of 4500 m, this site is destined to be an exclusive hub for optical, infra-red, and gamma-ray telescopes. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science & Technology and Space, is optimistic about its potential to enchant enthusiasts, aligning with India’s stellar space achievements.
Anticipated to be among the 15 to 16 similar global sites, the Dark Sky Reserve will elevate India’s standing in astro-tourism. With a solid tripartite Memorandum of Understanding in place, this venture promises not only scientific progress but also a boost to local tourism and the economy.
Underlining Ladakh’s distinctiveness, Singh recognized it as India’s newest Union Territory housing the oldest civilization. He emphasized Ladakh’s dedication to achieving carbon neutrality and revealed a special development package worth INR 50 crore. This initiative, backed by the central government, aims to finance various projects in the region.
Additionally, the Minister highlighted Ladakh’s burgeoning Dark Sky tourism, foreseeing a rise in visitor numbers as Hanle welcomes tourists from all walks of life.
The recent approval from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs allowing overnight stays for foreign tourists in Hanle adds a fresh layer of appeal to the region. Singh also emphasized the introduction of Snow Sculpture as a tourist attraction, generating job opportunities for locals and bolstering the region’s economic growth.
As Ladakh commemorates its fourth anniversary as a Union Territory, these initiatives underscore its dedication to sustainable development and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage.
