In a significant step towards promoting science-driven and sustainable tourism, the District Tourism Department of Pithoragarh, in collaboration with Starscapes Experiences Pvt. Ltd., has inaugurated the district’s first dedicated astro-tourism observatory. The facility was inaugurated by Satpal Maharaj, Minister for Tourism, Uttarakhand, marking a new chapter in experiential tourism for the region.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Ashish Kumar Bhatgain, District Magistrate, Pithoragarh; Kalpana Devlal, Mayor, Pithoragarh; and Kirti Chand Arya, District Tourism Development Officer, Pithoragarh. The observatory is envisioned as a hub for astronomy-based activities while encouraging responsible tourism and community participation.

Starscapes Experiences Pvt. Ltd., India’s leading astro-tourism company, has trained local youth as Astro Guides to conduct guided stargazing sessions and manage observatory operations. This approach integrates public infrastructure with community skill development, creating a sustainable model that supports scientific literacy, tourism growth, 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. With Pithoragarh’s natural dark skies and high-altitude geography, the initiative is expected to position the district as a key astro-tourism destination in Uttarakhand.

Highlighting the district’s vision, Kirti Chandra Arya, District Tourism Development Officer, Pithoragarh, said, “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.”

Sharing insights from the industry perspective, 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.”