8 Most Beautiful Hill Stations For Night Sky Photography This Summer​ (2025)

Munsiyari, Uttarakhand

Less crowded than Nainital or Almora, Munsiyari offers dramatic Himalayan views by day and star-studded skies by night. The Panchachuli peaks act as the perfect dramatic backdrop for long-exposure photography. For the best experience, stay just outside the main town at homestays on hilltops.

Binsar, Uttarakhand

Tucked away in the Kumaon hills, Binsar is one of the most underrated gems for stargazing. The Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary by day is a birding paradise, and by night, it becomes a canopy of stars. Many hotels in the region have stargazing evenings as a permanent fixture on their tourist itineraries.

Coorg, Karnataka

Known for its coffee plantations, Coorg is also one of South India’s best places to catch a starry night. Head to Tadiandamol Peak or remote estates for minimal light interference and uninterrupted views of the night sky. You can also book a homestay with a telescope or astro-tourism add-on.

Sonmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Camping in Sonmarg offers one of the most unforgettable stargazing experiences. At 2,800 metres above sea level, Sonmarg has minimal air disturbance, enhancing the clarity of the night sky. Its secluded location means low air and noise pollution, allowing for a quiet, clear view of the stars, perfect for astrophotography and astronomy enthusiasts alike.

Pangong Tso, Ladakh

Yes, it’s famous for that one scene from 3 Idiots—but come nightfall, Pangong turns into a stargazer’s wonderland. With the lake reflecting the stars and no city lights for miles, you’ll feel like you're floating in the cosmos. If you really focus, you can also spot shooting stars here! Pro Tip: Carry extra layers—it gets freezing at night!

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

Spiti isn’t just remote—it’s almost a different world. With minimal light pollution and crisp, dry air, the stars here shine with next-level clarity. The villages of Kaza and Kibber offer unobstructed night skies, and you can actually pitch your tent near the famous Chandratal Lake for the best views of the Milky Way.

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Remote, rugged, and raw—Tawang offers some of the most pristine skies in India. Add to that its monasteries, mountain passes, and quiet vibe, and you’ve got a destination that feels far, far away. The roads to this destination start opening up around March-April so you can plan a quick road trip to this eastern gem this summer.

Kanatal, Uttarakhand

Quiet, cool, and crowd-free—Kanatal is the perfect alternative to hill stations like Manali and Nainital. Since it is quieter and lesser-known, there is less pollution, leading to clear skies and pine-scented air. It's just a few hours from Dehradun and a great escape for campers and astro lovers.

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