India's First Dark Sky Reserve: Women Leading Astronomy Tourism
Meet the astro-ambassadors guiding visitors through Hanle's pristine night skies.
1Hanle's Unique Appeal
Located at 14,764 feet in Ladakh, Hanle is renowned for its exceptionally clear and dark skies, making it a prime destination for stargazing. The village's high altitude, dry air, and minimal light pollution create ideal conditions for astronomical observation. Hanle is also home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, a major center for research. In 2022, it became India's first Dark Sky Reserve, protecting its skies from artificial light and boosting its reputation as a hub for astronomy tourism.
2Astro-Ambassadors' Role
Four young women—Palzes Angmo, Tsering Dolker, Tsering Yangdol, and Padma Chamchot—serve as Hanle's astro-ambassadors. Trained by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, they guide visitors through the night sky, using telescopes and laser pointers to identify stars, planets, and constellations. By day, they manage family-run homestays, cooking meals and cleaning rooms. By night, they transform into skilled astronomy guides, sharing their knowledge of the cosmos.
3Training and Transformation
In 2022, the Ladakh administration and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics trained 24 young locals in astronomy, including the four women. Over 15 days, they learned to identify celestial objects, operate telescopes, and photograph the Milky Way. Initially nervous about handling expensive equipment, they gradually gained confidence. Today, they are adept astronomers, earning about 25,000 rupees monthly from their stargazing sessions.
4Tourism Boom
Since Hanle's designation as a Dark Sky Reserve, visitor numbers have surged from 3,000 annually five years ago to nearly 30,000 in 2024-25. Social media posts about Hanle's night skies and its location on the route to Umling La, one of the world's highest motorable passes, have fueled this growth. The influx of tourists has created economic opportunities for locals, particularly through homestays and astronomy tours.
5Economic Impact
The astro-ambassadors' work supplements their families' income from homestays. Charging 200 rupees per session, they earn around 25,000 rupees monthly, providing financial independence. During harsh winters, tourism dips, but the earnings have allowed them to save and invest in personal items like new phones. Their role has also boosted their confidence and transformed their lives beyond financial gains.
6Challenges of Growth
The rapid rise in tourism poses challenges to Hanle's dark skies. Increased traffic, construction, and artificial light threaten the very darkness that attracts visitors. Sonam Jorphail, a senior engineer at the Indian Astronomical Observatory, emphasizes the need to manage growth carefully to preserve Hanle's unique conditions. Balancing economic benefits with environmental protection remains a critical issue.
7Cultural and Personal Impact
The astro-ambassadors' work has also enriched their families' lives. They often take their families stargazing, sharing their knowledge and passion for astronomy. Their families now enjoy looking at the night sky through telescopes, and the women joke that their absence is noticed if they skip a session. Their role has bridged the gap between the scientific community and local residents.
8Future Aspirations
The women hope to receive advanced training and better equipment to enhance visitors' experiences. They have no desire to leave Hanle, seeing their future intertwined with its dark skies. From unfamiliarity with telescopes four years ago, they are now building a sustainable career around astronomy tourism, ensuring Hanle remains a beacon for stargazers worldwide.
Original article: BBC News — India's First Dark Sky Reserve: Women Leading Astronomy Tourism