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Astro-Trip Ladakh & Hanle: A Trip to Remember: Ladakh, September 2024

Ladakh, often referred to as the “Rooftop of the World,” offers one of the most incredible stargazing experiences in India. With its high-altitude desert landscape and minimal light pollution, Ladakh provides an unrivaled view of the stars and planets.


What Makes Ladakh a Stellar Stargazing Destination?

  • High Altitude: At altitudes ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 feet, Ladakh provides some of the clearest skies for stargazing.

  • Low Light Pollution: Ladakh is remote and sparsely populated, offering dark skies that make it ideal for astronomy lovers.

  • Vibrant Night Sky: With clear views of the Milky Way, multiple galaxies, nebulae, and even the Northern Lights during certain times of the year, Ladakh is truly a stargazing haven.


Woman smiling, sitting outdoors at a table with flowers and coffee cups. Lush greenery and vibrant flowers in the bright garden setting.

Let’s take a closer look at my experience with Arc Educators at

Among all my trips, this one remains one of my favorites, filled with beautiful memories and heartfelt stories. It was special for two main reasons.

  • First, it was the first birthday of my life that I celebrated without any traditional celebration. No network, surrounded by complete strangers, yet under a sky full of stars. I got to witness a cosmic world and experienced the journey of strangers turning into family.

  • Second, the beauty of Ladakh itself made the trip extraordinary in every way.


A Trip to Remember – Ladakh, September 2024

Day 1: Arrival in Leh (September 29, 2024)

The eight-day journey began with our landing in Leh, buzzing with excitement and curiosity. We checked into the pre-booked hotel arranged by the Arc team. The first day was about settling in, chilling, and having short interactions with other participants. Though we had just met, it never felt like we were strangers. Despite being a small group, we were full of fun and energy.

Person holding a coffee cup on a balcony, overlooking a lush garden with tall green trees under a clear blue sky, creating a peaceful mood.
Day 2: Exploring Leh

After a good rest, the second day was all about exploring Leh. We visited:

Woman smiling at a red table with mountains in the background. Blue sky and sunset hues create a serene mood.
Day 3: Off to Nubra Valley
Four people cheerfully pose in front of a yellow "Khardungla" sign at a rocky, mountainous location. They're dressed warmly, celebrating the moment.

We started our journey toward Nubra Valley, making a stop at Khardung La—the highest motorable pass. The breathtaking views and thrilling experience were unforgettable.

In Nubra, I indulged in my favorite activities:

  • an ATV ride,

  • a zip line, and

  • watching the sunset at the Nubra sand dunes alongside camels.

  • Of course, I couldn’t miss eating my favorite momos!

  • We checked into a beautiful cabin stay of glass rooftop, were seeing stars directly from bed this magical stay for the next two days, and the night ended with a mesmerizing stargazing session my favorite part of the trip.

    Woman in white top and black pants smiles outdoors in Nubra Valley, with mountains and cabins in the background under a clear blue sky.

Day 4: Turtuk & Siachen Experience
Woman in white sweater poses by painted rock with "LOVE MY INDIA" text. Indian flag waves above. Trutuk Village sign, mountains in background.

We travelled to Turtuk village, witnessing the India-Pakistan border and learning about the history and lifestyle of the locals. Thanks to our team leader, we gained so much knowledge about the place. Later, we headed toward Siachen to learn about the survival skills of Ladakh’s snow warriors. The day ended with tea and Kanda bhaji, which instantly reminded me of Mumbai.

A person in black clothing and sunglasses stands in a sandy desert landscape with mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.

Day 5: Pangong – The Mesmerizing Blue Lake
A person walks along a tranquil lake with mountains in the background. The clear reflection creates a serene, symmetrical scene.
Pangong Lake, Image credit :- Prashant Saundalkar

Due to some minor inconvenience, we had to leave Nubra earlier than planned, but team leader managed everything bravely, ensuring we reached our next destination safely Pangong Lake. The moment I saw the hypnotic blue waters of Pangong, I was completely in awe. We spent a peaceful day soaking in the beauty of this magical place.

Person on a yellow scooter by a lake, wearing a red scarf and helmet. Mountain backdrop, clear blue sky. Calm, scenic mood.

Day 6-7: Hanle – A Birthday Under the Milky Way (3rd October and 4th October)
A person smiles in front of a large telescope at the Indian Astronomical Observatory. The background features a dome structure.

The highlight of my trip! We travelled to Hanle, a place known for its dark skies and home to one of India’s observatories. With temperatures dropping to -3°C, it was freezing, yet the sky was dazzling with stars. This was where I celebrated my birthday without any grand celebration but in the most special way possible. That night, we attended a star party, and watching Interstellar under the actual Milky Way felt surreal. Even though my team was upset about not knowing it was my birthday in advance, they unknowingly made it extra special!

Woman in a fur coat gazes at the Milky Way under a dark, starry Indian sky. Text reads: "I saw the most incredible Milky Way of my life."

These two days in Hanle felt like a mini-tour of the universe. On October 6th, we started our journey back to Leh.

Woman poses by a sign reading "Himank welcomes you to Umling La, highest motorable pass, 19024 ft." Colorful flags in the sunny desert.
Day 8: Goodbye, but Not Really

Even though my heart and mind weren’t ready to say goodbye to this beautiful place, the trip came to an end, leaving us with never ending memories and a wealth of knowledge. We wrapped up the evening playing UNO, laughing, and cherishing the bond we had formed.

A crocheted bag with sunglasses and an "Astrocamp" button rests on denim-clad legs in a vehicle. Fringed details and casual vibe.
A Heartfelt Thank You

A huge thank you to ARC Educators for giving me one of the best experiences of my life one that I will cherish forever. A special thanks to our incredible team leader, for not only ensuring our safety throughout the journey but also making every destination even more memorable with his knowledge and guidance.


And last but not least, to my amazing co-participants you all made this trip even more fun, enjoyable, and unforgettable. From strangers to a family, this journey wouldn’t have been the same without you!


Ladakh wasn’t just a destination; it was an experience one that will stay with me for a lifetime.

Four people smile and raise fists at Khardungla Pass, standing before a yellow sign with colorful text, surrounded by rocky terrain and flags.

So Why Wait, Best time to Go Stargazing in Ladakh is NOW!

The best time for stargazing in Ladakh is from May till mid-October. The clear skies, coupled with cool and dry conditions, make this the ideal period for Astrophotography and stargazing.

Arc Educators organizes Stargazing Tours in Ladakh & Hanle during this period, ensuring that you can take full advantage of the incredible stargazing opportunities. Grab your chance now!

Five people stand smiling by a river. Background features rugged mountains under a clear blue sky, evoking a joyful, adventurous mood.

Keep following Arc Educators because here,

Mauka Bhi Hai, Dastoor Bhi Hai.


Komal Sonawane

 Ladakh & Hanle: 29th September to 7th October 2024

 
 
 

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