Great news for for all space and astronomy enthusiasts Uttarakhand to host Benital Astro Camp From 19 May to 21 May in Benital in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand .
If stargazing in the hills has always been on your bucket list, then Benital Astro Camp 2023 in Uttarakhand may be the perfect opportunity for you to tick that box. Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board is co-hosting the camp from May 19, offering astrophiles a chance for a starry vacation.
The month-long camp is taking place in Chamoli district’s Benital village, about 430 km from Delhi. Being developed as India’s first ‘astro village’, Benital is perched at 2,600 metres above sea level in the Himalayas. The offbeat location has clean air and is free of light pollution, making it the perfect destination for astro tourism in India. And after the roaring success of the first ‘Astro Party’ in 2021, the tourism board decided to host another one in collaboration with astro-tourism company, Starscapes.
Get ready for an out-of-this-world experience! Join us at Astrocamp 2023 and discover the cosmos like never before. From May 19th to 21st, gaze at stunning starscapes that will leave you breathless. Then, from May 22nd onward, explore the fascinating world of Benital. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to expand your horizons and delve into the unknown.
What is expected at Benital Astro Camp 2023?
The camp, which will go on for two months approximately, will commence with a grand ‘Astro Party’ scheduled from May 19 – 21. The event will have a long list of activities for people to participate in, like stargazing, astrophotography, and other astro-related activities that will be aided by telescopes and astronomy experts. You will be able to spot constellations, planets, moons and even a glimpse of the Milky Way galaxy. Furthermore, the camp will also organise hikes, cycling groups and bird-watching expeditions that will help you immerse in the natural beauty of Benital. The last date of the camp is not decided yet, but the official website has shared that the camp will continue till the weather permits, tentatively till June end. Entry to the event is completely free, and participants only need to register.
You need to keep a few things in mind while planning for the camp. Accommodation and food are not part of the astro-event; therefore, you will need to arrange for it on your own. However, they have shared that the most convenient place to stay near Benital is Karnaprayag, a hill town around 30 km away. There is a shuttle that goes to and from Karnaprayag that takes about 75 mins to cover the journey. You will have the option to stay at the campsite as well, but you will need to bring your own tent and other basic amenities. Water and sanitary facilities will be provided at the site.
How to Register for Benital Astro Camp 2023
Please follow the the Starscapes Link to Register for Benital Astro Camp 2023.
- Entry to the event is free.
- Guests need to make their own food and stay arrangements. The convenient place to stay will be at Karnprayag.
- There are good homestays and hotels at Karnprayag. Closer to the venue, there are homestays available.
- There is a regular shuttle to and from Karnprayag. The journey is around 75 minutes. The timings are listed below.
- Guests can also stay at the campsite, provided they bring their own tent and equipment.
- Water and sanitary facilities (washroom, toilet) will be provided.
How to Reach Benital Astro Camp
- By Air: The nearest airport to Benital is Pantnagar Airport, located approximately 135 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Benital.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station, which is around 100 kilometers from Benital. From Kathgodam, you can avail of taxis, shared cabs, or buses to reach your destination.
- By Road: Benital is well-connected by road. You can either drive or hire a taxi from major nearby cities like Nainital, Almora, or Kathgodam. Regular bus services are also available from these cities to Benital.
Remember to plan your journey in advance, check for any route updates or road conditions, and consider the weather conditions during your travel to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to Benital.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Question: When will the Benital Astro Camp start?
Answer: It is starting from May 19, with an ‘Astro Party’ that will continue till May 21.
Question: Where is Benital Astro Camp happening?
Answer: The Astro Camp is taking place in Benital, which is being developed as India’s first astro village. It is located in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district near Karnaprayag.
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