Hanle Dark Sky Reserve is India's first dark sky reserve at 4,500 m altitude. Home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) with 2m Himalayan Chandra Telescope. Over 300 clear nights annually make it ideal for stargazing and astrophotography. Local villagers are trained as astronomy guides.
Free entry but must apply online 15 days before via IIA request form. ILP/PAP permit needed for access. Observatory hours: 9:30-10:30 AM and 3:30-5:30 PM. No entry after 5:30 PM
September-March for clearest skies. New moon nights ideal for astrophotography. Annual star parties in October
faq.subtitle Hanle Dark Sky Reserve
Observatory is for daytime tours only. Actual stargazing happens from village and homestays under the dark sky reserve. 22 trained villagers guide visitors with 18 telescopes. Book homestay in advance
Average temperature by month
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6°-5°7°-6°6°-4°7°-5°8°-5°Interesting places nearby
