Step into a world where spirituality meets the cosmos at Nakshatra Sabha near Kartikswamy Temple in Rudraprayag! This celestial event promises an extraordinary stargazing experience from the heights of Uttarakhand, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Held during late winter, when the skies are at their clearest, this event combines astronomy, cultural exploration, and nature immersion. Experience guided tours of the night sky, astrophotography sessions, hikes, and soulful campfire music—all set against the mystical backdrop of Kartikswamy Temple.
The Heart of Nakshatra Sabha Kartikswamy
Astronomy takes center stage at the Nakshatra Sabha near Kartikswamy Temple. Our advanced telescopes, including computerized GoTo telescopes and large-aperture Dobsonian telescopes, offer crystal-clear views of deep-sky objects, star clusters, planets, and the moon. Our expert Starguides will lead you on a journey through the cosmos, navigating the winter and early spring skies in their full glory.
- The Virgo Cluster of Galaxies:
The dark skies of Rudraprayag offer a rare opportunity to observe the Virgo Cluster, a large group of galaxies situated in the constellation Virgo. Through our powerful telescopes, you’ll glimpse some of these distant galaxies, expanding your understanding of the universe’s vastness.
- The Moon:
In its waxing gibbous phase during the event, the moon will provide an exceptional view of its craters, valleys, and mountain ranges, enhancing the stargazing experience.
- Jupiter and Venus:
As twilight sets in, witness the stunning conjunction of Jupiter and Venus, two of the brightest objects in the sky. This planetary conjunction is a spectacle to behold, providing a brilliant contrast against the darkening horizon.
- The Orion Nebula:
As twilight sets in, witness the stunning conjunction of Jupiter and Venus, two of the brightest objects in the sky. This planetary conjunction is a spectacle to behold, providing a brilliant contrast against the darkening horizon.
- The Orion Nebula:
One of the brightest nebulae in the sky, the Orion Nebula (M42) will be prominently visible, offering a breathtaking view of this star-forming region through our telescopic lenses.
Our skilled Starguides will lead participants on a guided tour of the night sky, teaching how to identify key constellations such as Leo, Virgo, and Orion. They will provide insights into the mythology and history behind these constellations, explaining how ancient cultures used them for navigation and spiritual practices. The Starguides will also conduct specialized astrophotography sessions, sharing tips on capturing clear images of the planets, galaxies, and the night sky’s breathtaking expanse. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a newcomer to astronomy, this immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for the cosmos.
Astronomy by Day and Night: Explore the skies during the day with solar observations using H-Alpha filters and solar goggles, then transition to nighttime stargazing through high-powered telescopes as the stars, planets, and nebulae unveil themselves in the dark skies over Rudraprayag.
Astrophotography: Participate in hands-on astrophotography workshops, where experts will guide you through capturing the star-filled sky, star trails, and deep-sky objects like galaxies and nebulae. You’ll learn how to photograph the stunning celestial sights and take home lasting memories.
Hikes and Nature Walks: Embark on guided hikes through the surrounding forests, discovering the region’s natural beauty and the breathtaking views from the cliffside location near the Kartikswamy Temple. Learn about the local flora and fauna and their connection to the lunar cycles.
Birding: Take part in early morning bird-watching excursions, where you’ll have the chance to observe Himalayan bird species as they welcome the day. Your guides will help you identify the birds and explain their unique adaptations to the high-altitude environment.
Cycling: Enjoy cycling tours through the picturesque terrains around Kartikswamy, breathing in the crisp mountain air and soaking in the panoramic views.
Live Music:Gather around a warm campfire under the stars as local musicians serenade you with soulful tunes, enhancing the ambiance of the starlit sky and fostering a sense of community among participants.
Workshops and Panel Discussions: Engage in workshops and panel discussions focused on dark sky conservation, the relationship between astronomy and spirituality, and how ancient civilizations used celestial observations for navigation and rituals.
DIY Astronomy Stations: Explore DIY astronomy stations where you can build simple telescopes, identify constellations using star maps, and engage in hands-on experiments that reveal the wonders of the universe.
Merchandise: Take home a piece of the cosmos with astronomy-themed merchandise, including stargazing guides, telescopes, and unique Nakshatra Sabha souvenirs.
Nestled at an altitude of 3,000 meters, the Kartikswamy Temple in Rudraprayag offers an unparalleled vantage point for stargazing. The temple is dedicated to Lord Kartikeya, and its strategic location on a cliff provides a clear, unobstructed view of the horizon. The surrounding terrain features dense forests, serene valleys, and a panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks, adding to the event’s mystical ambiance.
The unique aspect of this event lies in its setting near the revered Kartikswamy Temple, blending astronomy with spirituality. Participants will explore how ancient civilizations used the temple’s elevated location for celestial observations and ritualistic practices. The event includes a guided trek to the temple for a sunrise and sunset experience, revealing the beauty of the Himalayan horizon and the relationship between these natural phenomena and Hindu cosmology. Additionally, the conjunction of Jupiter and Venus provides a rare planetary spectacle, enhancing the celestial experience.
By Air
The closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, around 180 km from Kartikswamy. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to continue the journey by road.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, approximately 200 km away. Taxis and buses are available from the station to Rudraprayag, followed by a trek to the site.
By Road
Kartikswamy is around 400 km from Delhi and about 150 km from Dehradun. A drive through scenic mountain roads will take you through Rudraprayag, followed by a short trek to the temple’s location.
The event will run from February 28th to March 2nd, 2025. During this period, the late winter skies are exceptionally clear, providing ideal conditions for deep-sky observation. The waxing gibbous moon will highlight lunar surface details, while the conjunction of Jupiter and Venus offers a brilliant planetary display at dusk. The absence of monsoon clouds and the dry air of early spring ensure that visibility is optimal, making it one of the best times for stargazing in this region.
Do’s and Don’t
Do’s
- Carry reusable water bottles and containers to minimize waste.
- Use designated trails during hikes to protect the local ecosystem.
- Respect the temple’s sanctity and local customs during the visit.
Dont’s
- Avoid using bright lights at night to maintain the dark sky experience.
- Do not leave behind any waste; use the waste disposal bins provided.
- Refrain from disturbing wildlife or removing natural elements from their habitat.
Warm clothing, including layers, gloves, and a hat, as it can get quite cold during nighttime stargazing.
A reusable water bottle and personal cutlery to minimize waste.
Binoculars and a camera if you wish to enhance your stargazing and astrophotography experience.
A flashlight or headlamp with a red light mode to maintain night vision.
Personal medications and a basic first aid kit.
Day Pass: ₹999 – Includes access to the event’s activities, workshops, and DIY astronomy stations (meals and accommodation not included).
Single Camping Package: ₹7,000 – Includes a tent equipped with sleeping bags, mats, and pillows, along with all meals and access to all activities.
Couple Camping Package: ₹9,999 – Includes a tent for two with all camping amenities, meals, and access to activities. Children aged 6-12 sharing the tent will be charged ₹5,000. Children above 12 will be charged the full rate.
Note: Tents are designed for a couple with a small child; additional family members should book an extra tent.
Nakshatra Sabha near Kartikswamy is committed to a zero-waste policy, ensuring that the natural beauty of the area remains untouched. We encourage participants to bring reusable containers and avoid single-use plastics. Proper waste segregation, composting, and recycling will be enforced throughout the event. By promoting sustainable practices, we aim to leave Kartikswamy as pristine as we found it, setting an example for eco-friendly tourism.
