Delhi’s city lights never let the stars shine through. At Astroport Sariska, we know how the glow of the city can hide the magic of the night sky. But here’s the good news – just a short weekend trip from Delhi, you can witness a sky full of stars like never before.

For most people in the city, seeing a clear starry night feels impossible. We’re here to prove it’s not only possible, but also one of the most memorable experiences you can have.

This guide by the team at Astroport Sariska brings you the 10 best weekend astronomy getaways from Delhi – each offering its own unique way to reconnect with the cosmos.

 

What Makes a Stargazing Getaway from Delhi Worth It?

 

 

The core of any great stargazing trip is getting away from light pollution. The Bortle Scale, a nine-level system, measures the darkness of the sky. Delhi and its surrounding areas typically fall into Class 8 or 9, where only the brightest stars are visible. The destinations on our list, however, range from Class 4 (rural sky) to Class 2 (truly dark site), offering a stark contrast and a chance to see thousands of stars, the Milky Way, and even other galaxies with the naked eye.

For a complete list of top destinations, explore the best stargazing resorts near Delhi NCR for a perfect getaway.

 

When Is the Best Time for a Stargazing Getaway?

 

 

To get the best views of the night sky, you need to plan your trip around two crucial factors:

• The Season: Winter (October to March) is ideal. The air is dry and crisp, leading to less atmospheric haze and clearer views. The pre- and post-monsoon seasons can also offer great opportunities.
• The Moon Phase: Always check the lunar calendar and plan your trip around a New Moon. A bright, full moon acts like a giant celestial light bulb, washing out all but the most prominent stars. Aim for a moonless night for the best experience.

 

The 10 Best Weekend Astronomy Getaways from Delhi

 

 

To help you choose, we’ve provided a detailed breakdown of each destination, including its unique features, travel details, and what you can expect to see.

 

1. Astroport Sariska (Rajasthan)

 

 

As India’s first astro-tourism resort, Astroport Sariska was built from the ground up for astronomy enthusiasts. We have meticulously blended a luxury resort stay with a professional, hands-on astronomy experience, making it a truly unique destination.

• Location & Travel: Located near Sariska Tiger Reserve, approximately 200 km from Delhi. The drive takes around 4-5 hours. The roads are generally good, making it an easy and comfortable weekend drive.
• Stargazing Experience: This is our specialty. We have a dedicated observatory with high-powered telescopes. Our expert astronomers are on hand to guide sessions, allowing you to view planets like Jupiter and Saturn, distant nebulae, and the magnificent Milky Way. The skies here are significantly darker than in Delhi, and the guided sessions ensure you get the most out of your star-filled night.
• Daytime Activities: You can enjoy a jungle safari at Sariska Tiger Reserve, relax at our swimming pool, or participate in other adventure activities offered on-site.
• Accommodation & Vibe: A unique, astro-themed resort with comfortable rooms and all modern amenities. Our vibe is educational and family-friendly, perfect for first-timers and those who want a structured, guided experience with us.

 

2. Sariska Tiger Reserve – Tehla Village (Rajasthan)

 

 

For those who want a raw, immersive experience combining wildlife and wilderness with stargazing.

• Location & Travel: Part of the larger Sariska area, Tehla Village is around 220 km from Delhi, a 5-6 hour drive.
• Stargazing Experience: The remote location ensures minimal light pollution, offering truly dark skies. While there are no dedicated observatories, the lack of city glow means you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye on a clear night. This is a self-guided experience.
• Daytime Activities: The primary activity is a wildlife safari in the Sariska Tiger Reserve. You can also enjoy local village walks and trekking.
• Accommodation & Vibe: Expect rustic homestays or eco-lodges. The vibe is for nature lovers and adventurers.

 

3. Namaste Dwaar – Aryabhata Observatory (near Delhi NCR)

 

 

A great, no-fuss option for those who want a quick, guided stargazing experience without a long drive.

• Location & Travel: Located in Gajraula, Uttar Pradesh, just about 120 km from Delhi. The drive is a quick 2.5-3 hours on the well-maintained NH9 highway.
• Stargazing Experience: Namaste Dwaar has its own professional observatory. They offer guided sessions led by an expert astronomer, making it perfect for beginners and kids.
• Daytime Activities: The resort offers recreational activities like swimming, indoor games, and walks around the property.
• Accommodation & Vibe: A clean, modern resort with all standard amenities. The vibe is relaxed and family-friendly.

 

4. Neemrana Fort Palace (Rajasthan)

 

 

A luxurious heritage stay with a celestial twist. This is the perfect choice for a romantic or special occasion getaway where stargazing is an added bonus.

• Location & Travel: Situated in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, just 120 km from Delhi. The drive takes around 2.5-3 hours.
• Stargazing Experience: While not a dedicated astronomy hub, the fort’s elevated terraces provide an excellent vantage point. The skies are much clearer than in the city, and on a moonless night, you can enjoy a beautiful, star-filled view.
• Daytime Activities: Explore the fort, enjoy a zip-lining tour, relax by the pool, or indulge in a spa session.
• Accommodation & Vibe: A stunning 15th-century fort palace converted into a hotel. The vibe is romantic, luxurious, and historical.

 

5. Juna Mahal, Ranthambore (Rajasthan)

 

 

Experience the best of both worlds: a luxury wildlife safari and a premium stargazing experience in the heart of the wild.

• Location & Travel: Located in Ranthambore, approximately 380 km from Delhi. The drive is longer, taking 7-8 hours, so it’s best suited for a long weekend trip.
• Stargazing Experience: The resort offers a 45-minute guided stargazing session on its spacious terrace. Away from any significant light pollution, you get a pristine view of the night sky, with a chance to see planets, galaxies, and constellations through provided telescopes.
• Daytime Activities: The main attraction is the Ranthambore Tiger Reserve safari. The resort also offers other experiences like pottery making and folk music sessions.
• Accommodation & Vibe: Luxury palace villas with top-notch amenities. The vibe is exclusive and elegant, catering to those seeking a high-end experience.

 

6. Naukuchiatal (Uttarakhand)

 

 

A tranquil lake town known for its serene environment and clear skies, offering a relaxed and scenic escape for both nature and star lovers.

• Location & Travel: Naukuchiatal is about 320 km from Delhi, a 7-8 hour drive. The last leg of the journey involves scenic but winding mountain roads.
• Stargazing Experience: Naukuchiatal offers good stargazing opportunities, especially from resorts located on the outskirts of the main town. The Starscapes Observatory is a key feature here, offering guided tours and special shows. On a clear night, you can easily see the Milky Way.
• Daytime Activities: Boating in Naukuchiatal lake, paragliding, or visiting the nearby Bhimtal lake.
• Accommodation & Vibe: The town has a mix of cozy homestays, lakeside resorts, and guesthouses. The vibe is peaceful, relaxed, and perfect for unwinding.

 

7. Pangot (Uttarakhand)

 

 

A quiet, rustic village near Nainital that promises a raw, unfiltered encounter with nature and the cosmos.

• Location & Travel: Located just 15 km from Nainital, Pangot is about 310 km from Delhi. The drive is scenic but requires navigating narrow mountain roads, taking around 7-8 hours.
• Stargazing Experience: Pangot is known for its minimal light pollution due to its remote location. The skies here are significantly dark (Bortle Class 3-4). You can see an incredible number of stars and the Milky Way with the naked eye. This is an ideal spot for independent stargazers.
• Daytime Activities: Pangot is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds. You can also enjoy trekking and nature walks through the dense oak forests.
• Accommodation & Vibe: The village offers simple, rustic homestays and cottages. The vibe is offbeat and quiet.

 

8. Mukteshwar (Uttarakhand)

 

 

A destination that combines panoramic Himalayan views with excellent stargazing opportunities. It’s an ideal choice for groups and couples looking for comfort and adventure.

• Location & Travel: Mukteshwar is approximately 350 km from Delhi. The drive can take 8-9 hours due to the winding hill roads.
• Stargazing Experience: The high altitude (7,500 ft) and remote location mean Mukteshwar boasts some of the clearest skies in the region. The Starscapes Observatory & Experience Centre provides guided sessions. You can also find excellent spots for independent stargazing. The views of the cosmos, with the backdrop of the Himalayas, are truly unforgettable.
• Daytime Activities: Trekking, rock climbing, and exploring local temples. The stunning views of the Nanda Devi peak and other Himalayan ranges are a major highlight.
• Accommodation & Vibe: A mix of comfortable resorts and charming guesthouses. The vibe is relaxed, with a focus on both adventure and tranquility.

 

9. Kausani (Uttarakhand)

 

 

Known as the “Switzerland of India,” Kausani is a serene hill station offering breathtaking Himalayan views and clear night skies. It’s an excellent choice for a long weekend trip that combines natural beauty with astronomy.

• Location & Travel: A longer drive, about 430 km from Delhi, taking 10-11 hours. The route is scenic and perfect for those who enjoy a road trip. It’s best suited for a 3-day weekend.
• Stargazing Experience: The high altitude and minimal light pollution make for fantastic stargazing. On a clear, moonless night, you can easily see the Milky Way. The Starscapes Observatory in Kausani offers guided sessions and access to professional telescopes, adding a formal astronomy element to your trip.
• Daytime Activities: Witness the stunning sunrise over the Trishul and Nanda Devi peaks. Explore the Anasakti Ashram where Mahatma Gandhi stayed, visit the local tea estate, or go for a peaceful hike.
• Accommodation & Vibe: Kausani offers a wide range of stays, from comfortable homestays to resorts with panoramic views. The vibe is peaceful, quiet, and rejuvenating.

 

10. Rooftop Stargazing at Skygaze India (Delhi NCR)

 

 

An urban-based solution for those who can’t travel far but still want a taste of astronomy.

• Location & Travel: This option is within the Delhi NCR area, so no long-distance travel is required.
• Stargazing Experience: While it can’t compare to the dark skies of the mountains, Skygaze India offers guided sessions with telescopes from a rooftop location. They provide an educational experience, helping you spot planets and constellations visible even through city haze. It’s perfect for kids and absolute beginners.
• Daytime Activities: None, as this is an evening-only session.
• Budget: $ (Budget-friendly for a single session)

 

How Astroport Sariska Stands Apart

 

 

As India’s first astro-tourism resort, Astroport Sariska was founded with a singular vision: to make the wonder of the cosmos accessible to everyone. Our expertise and dedication to the night sky set us apart from a simple stay-and-gaze trip. 

• Professional Expertise: Unlike other resorts that may offer a single telescope as an amenity, Astroport has a dedicated team of expert astronomers. We provide hands-on, guided sessions that are both educational and awe-inspiring.
• Dedicated Infrastructure: We’ve invested in a state-of-the-art observatory with high-powered telescopes, allowing you to see objects you simply can’t with the naked eye or a basic pair of binoculars.
• A Complete Astro-Experience: We don’t just offer stargazing; we provide an immersive experience. From our themed cottages to our workshops and discussions, every element of our resort is designed to deepen your connection with the night sky.
• Pioneering a New Kind of Tourism: We are committed to making astro-tourism a mainstream reality. Our unique resort concept is a testament to our belief that everyone should have the chance to see a truly dark sky.

To truly understand what sets our experience apart, read more about why Astroport Sariska is the best stargazing destination near Delhi.

 

👉 Ready to experience a star-filled escape like no other? Plan your trip at Astroport Sariska and ask for the new-moon calendar to lock in the darkest nights.

 

FAQs for Your Stargazing Trip

 

 

Q: Do I need a telescope to enjoy these getaways? 

A: No, you don’t. The primary goal of visiting these locations is to escape light pollution. Your naked eye and a good pair of binoculars will provide a stunning experience. Resorts with observatories will provide the equipment. At Astroport Sariska, we provide all the necessary, professional-grade equipment for your session.

Q: What should I pack for a stargazing trip? 

A: The weather can get very chilly at night, even in places that are warm during the day.

• Clothing: Pack warm layers, a jacket, a hat, and gloves.
• Essentials: A comfortable blanket or mat to lie on, a red-light flashlight (to preserve night vision), and a mobile app like SkyView or Stellarium.
• Photography: A camera with a manual mode and a tripod is a great addition for astrophotography.

Q: Is it safe for a solo female traveler? 

A: Most of the listed resorts and homestays are in established tourist areas and are generally safe. However, for remote trekking locations like Nag Tibba, it is highly recommended to join a reputable trekking group rather than going alone. Always inform someone of your travel plans. When staying at a dedicated resort like Astroport Sariska, you can feel safe and secure, as the property is managed by a professional team.

Q: Will I be able to see the Milky Way? 

A: On a moonless and clear night, you can see the Milky Way from most of the rural and remote locations on our list, especially those at a higher altitude or with very low light pollution (Pangot, Nag Tibba, and Astroport Sariska). You will not be able to see it from the Delhi-NCR option.

Q: Can I take my kids on this trip? 

A: Absolutely! Stargazing is a fantastic educational activity for children. Locations with dedicated observatories and guided sessions, such as Astroport Sariska and Namaste Dwaar, are especially well-suited for families as they offer an interactive and engaging experience that kids will love.

Q: How do I choose between a rustic spot and a luxury resort? 

A: It depends on your travel style. If you’re an adventurer looking for a raw, unfiltered experience, a rustic homestay or trek might be for you. If you want comfort, professional guidance, and other amenities while still getting a great view of the stars, a dedicated astro-resort or luxury palace is the better choice.

 

Conclusion

 

 

Escaping the city lights to witness the cosmos is no longer a dream for Delhi residents. As this list shows, an unforgettable, star-filled escape is just a short drive away. Whether you seek a luxurious heritage experience, a rugged mountain adventure, or a family-friendly educational trip, the perfect spot is waiting for you.

For those who want to experience the very best of astro-tourism, we invite you to discover the difference that a dedicated, professional environment can make. At Astroport Sariska, we’ve created an experience where the magic of the night sky is the main event, not just a fleeting part of your weekend.