Kargil, May 26 : The Department of Tourism, UT Ladakh, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), organised an Astro Tourism programme in Kargil as part of the ongoing Ladakh Astro Week 2026, bringing together students, scientists, tourists and local residents for a night of astronomy awareness and stargazing under Ladakh’s dark skies.
The programme was held at Purig Guest House near TV Station Kurbathang and featured astronomy awareness sessions, astrophotography exhibitions, telescope-based sky observation, science talks and cultural displays aimed at promoting astro-tourism and scientific learning in the region.
Assistant Director Tourism Kargil Muhammad Ali Tak attended the event along with officers from various departments, faculty members from educational institutions and Government Degree College Kargil, students, cultural artists and tourists.
Several stalls showcasing local handloom products, handicrafts, traditional cuisine and cultural artefacts were also set up during the programme, blending scientific outreach with Ladakh’s local heritage and tourism promotion.
Addressing participants, speakers highlighted the growing importance of astro-tourism in Ladakh and stressed the need to encourage scientific awareness among youth through interactive educational initiatives. Students were urged to engage with astronomy experts and explore opportunities in scientific learning and research.
In his address, Muhammad Ali Tak said the programme aimed to promote Kargil as an emerging astro-tourism destination by leveraging Ladakh’s pollution-free atmosphere and naturally clear night skies suitable for astronomical observation.
He observed that events such as Ladakh Astro Week provided an opportunity to combine science, tourism and culture while fostering curiosity and scientific temperament among young participants.
Experts from the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and associated astronomy teams conducted guided telescope sessions during the event, allowing participants to observe celestial objects and astronomical formations visible over the Kargil region.
