Sunday, 02 JUNE 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
To capitalise on the scope for tourism in Uttarakhand with the aim of promoting astro-tourism, ‘Nakshatra Sabha’ was formally inaugurated at George Everest estate in Mussoorie by the Tourism department on Saturday. The event will continue in this location till June 2.
In line with the vision of chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the Tourism department has taken this initiative to promote multidimensional tourism activities in the State apart from religious tourism. Dhami said that in view of scope for multidimensional tourism in the State, the government is also developing other resources. He said that the government is undertaking various efforts to promote green tourism. Apart from religious tourism, special attention is being given to adventure tourism, wellness tourism and astro-tourism. He said that the government is setting up astro villages at various places in the State. Tourism minister Satpal Maharaj said that the government is trying to ensure that all the tourists who come to the State get a better experience. He said that emphasis is being laid on developing new tourist destinations in the State.
The inaugural ceremony of the event was held at George Everest estate in the presence of Aryabhatta Observational Science Research Institute (ARIES) director Dipankar Banerjee and others.
The selection of George Everest estate as the venue for the event holds important historical significance. Named after the famous British surveyor George Everest, the site once housed the centre of the Trigonometrical Survey of India, which was important for accurate mapping of the country. Tourism department officials said that the Nakshatra Sabha offers a holistic astro-tourism experience with many activities like stargazing through special equipment, special solar observations, astrophotography competition and camping under the stars. The department plans to hold such events at dark sky potential sites in Uttarkashi, Pithoragarh, Nainital, Chamoli districts, apart from seminars and webinars with experts. The initiative aims to bring astronomy enthusiasts together to witness the beauty of the universe. Tourism secretary Sachin Kurve said that with the launch of Nakshatra Sabha, the department aims to put Uttarakhand at the forefront of astro tourism. This unique initiative has been launched in collaboration with Starscapes. With its vast forest area, nature-based tourism and homestays, Uttarakhand is uniquely positioned to become the choice of astro tourists. This campaign is another step in that direction. The department’s aim is to invite visitors from all over the world. “We look forward to hosting many more such campaigns to give tourists a glimpse of Uttarakhand’s unique heritage as well as experience the magic of the universe that can put Uttarakhand on the global astro-tourism map.”
