Young Women Become Stargazing Guides in Remote Indian Village
In Hanle, a growing dark sky tourism industry is empowering women and transforming their community.
In the remote village of Hanle, nestled high in India's Himalayan Ladakh region, a unique tourism industry is flourishing under the cloak of night. Four young women, once occupied with daily chores, have become Hanle's 'astro-ambassadors,' guiding visitors through the cosmos and finding new avenues for income and confidence.
At an altitude of 14,764 feet, Hanle is renowned for its exceptionally clear and dark skies, conditions prized by astronomers. The village is home to the Indian Astronomical Observatory, and in 2022, it was designated India's first Dark Sky Reserve. This recognition has led to a surge in tourism, with visitor numbers climbing from around 3,000 annually five years ago to nearly 30,000 in 2024-25.
In response to the growing visitor numbers, the Ladakh administration and the Indian Institute of Astrophysics launched a training program in 2022. Among the 24 locals trained were Palzes Angmo, Tsering Dolker, Tsering Yangdol, and Padma Chamchot. Over 15 days, they learned to identify celestial bodies, navigate the night sky, operate telescopes, and even photograph the Milky Way using mobile phones.
By day, these women manage their family-run homestays, cooking, cleaning, and attending to guests. But as night falls, their roles shift. They set up telescopes, point out constellations with laser pointers, and explain astronomical phenomena to tourists. They guide visitors to see lunar craters, Saturn's rings, and other planets. At 11 p.m. each night, the village lights are switched off to allow for optimal viewing of the Milky Way.
This new profession has provided the women with greater financial independence. They earn approximately 25,000 rupees (about $260) per month from astronomy sessions, charging 200 rupees per visitor. This income allows them to save and make their own purchases, eliminating the need to rely on parental support. Beyond the financial benefits, the role has boosted their confidence and social standing within the community.
However, the burgeoning tourism also presents challenges. The increased activity, construction, and artificial light threaten the very darkness that draws visitors to Hanle. While tourism is vital for local livelihoods, managing its growth is crucial to preserving the pristine night skies.
Despite potential challenges, the astro-ambassadors express a desire to continue their work in Hanle. They hope for opportunities to receive advanced training and access to better equipment to further enhance the stargazing experience for visitors. The transformation from local residents to skilled astronomical guides signifies a significant shift, building a future for themselves among the stars.