In a major step towards strengthening science-driven and sustainable tourism, the District Tourism Department, Pithoragarh, in partnership with Starscapes Experiences Pvt. Ltd., has established the district’s first dedicated Astronomical Observatory. The facility was inaugurated by Satpal Maharaj, Minister for Tourism, Uttarakhand.
The inauguration was attended by Ashish Kumar Bhatgain, District Magistrate, Pithoragarh; Kalpana Devlal, Mayor, Pithoragarh; and Kirti Chand Arya, District Tourism Development Officer, Pithoragarh.
Starscapes, India’s leading astro-tourism company, has trained local youth as Astro Guides to conduct guided stargazing sessions and manage observatory operations. This integration of public infrastructure with community skill development represents a sustainable model that enhances scientific literacy, responsible tourism, and local livelihood generation.
Speaking at the inauguration, Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj said, “The ideas and discussions around building observatories and promoting astro-tourism within the department have been underway for a long time, and it is extremely heartening to see this vision take tangible shape. The observatory established in Pithoragarh will not only encourage scientific activities but will also create new avenues for tourism and employment for local communities. In the coming years, the government will work towards setting up observatories at other suitable locations across the state and strengthening the foundational infrastructure required for astro-tourism.” The observatory will host astronomy sessions, night-sky observations, and educational programmes for students, tourists, and local residents. Leveraging Pithoragarh’s dark skies and high-altitude geography, it is expected to position the district as a key astro-tourism destination in Uttarakhand.
Kirti Chandra Arya, District Tourism Development Officer, Pithoragarh, added, “Pithoragarh’s natural dark skies offer immense potential for astro-tourism. Through this observatory and the training of local Astro Guides, the district administration aims to position Pithoragarh as a responsible and sustainable tourism destination while ensuring that local communities directly benefit from this initiative.”
Hem Sharma of Starscapes remarked, “Astro-tourism becomes truly impactful when world-class infrastructure is supported by well-trained local guides. By training Astro Guides for the Pithoragarh observatory, we are ensuring that scientific facilities are accessible, engaging, and professionally managed. This model not only enhances visitor experience but also creates long-term livelihood opportunities rooted in local talent.”
