In a landmark initiative to promote Astro-tourism in Himachal Pradesh’s high-altitude cold desert region, CM Sukhu formally launched a community-based stargazing facility at Kaza. The initiative, part of an entrepreneurship programme for the local tribal community, aims to harness the region’s unique natural assets—pristine night skies, minimal light pollution, and high-altitude clarity—for stargazing and tourism. Terming it a new beginning for the State, the Chief Minister said the project will strengthen the local economy by attracting more tourists and providing employment opportunities to the youth.
To support this initiative, the Chief Minister distributed high-end computerized telescopes (Sky-Watchers) to beneficiaries from Kaza, Rangrik, and Langza. These telescopes will be used for night sky observations as part of guided stargazing experiences for tourists. A training session for telescope handling has been scheduled for this Wednesday, ensuring local youth are equipped to manage the equipment and interact with visitors, thus enhancing tourism infrastructure in the region.
One of the key destinations in this Astro-tourism initiative is Langza, perched at over 14,500 feet. Widely known as the “Fossil Village”, Langza is rich in marine fossils dating back millions of years, offering a rare glimpse into the geological history of the Himalayas. The village, with its green pastures, snow-clad peaks, and stark landscapes, is not only visually captivating but also ideal for astronomers, researchers, and sky gazers due to its nearly zero night pollution. Locals believe Langza is home to all the deities of the valley, adding spiritual significance to the region.
The Chief Minister noted that such initiatives would attract astronomers and science enthusiasts while also promoting Spiti’s unique cultural heritage. He emphasized that the government’s aim is to integrate science with culture, making Langza and Spiti a compelling destination for both intellectual and spiritual tourism. The region’s location along ancient trade routes also contributes to its rich historical and cultural legacy.
According to a government spokesperson, the project will also engage local home-stay and hotel owners, enabling them to benefit from the increasing tourist inflow. As per official data, around 1,58,580 Indian and 4,570 foreign tourists visited Spiti and Langza by July 2025, significantly contributing to the local economy.
In addition to promoting Astro-tourism, the State Government is also intensifying efforts to revive border tourism and traditional trade routes. The Government of India has initiated discussions with China to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Shipki-La, located in Kinnaur district. India and China have agreed in principle to re-open border trade through all three traditional routes—Shipki-La (Himachal Pradesh), Lipulekh (Uttarakhand), and Nathu La (Sikkim).
In a written communication to the Chief Minister, the Union Ministry of Tourism confirmed that Shipki-La will be added as an additional route for the Mansarovar Yatra. The State Government is now coordinating with the Union Commerce Ministry to complete the codal formalities and lay the groundwork for the reopening of this historic trade route. Given that Himachal Pradesh already has road connectivity up to Shipki-La, it is well-positioned to develop base camps and supporting infrastructure for the Yatra.
These forward-looking initiatives are expected to revive traditional trade, enhance cross-border cultural exchanges, and open new economic opportunities in the border regions of Himachal Pradesh, paving the way for sustainable development and regional integration.
