The week-long Ladakh Astro Festival 2026 commenced on May 20 at the Tourism Department Complex, Leh, with enthusiastic participation from students, astronomy enthusiasts, officials, and guests from across the region.

The inaugural function was graced by Mukesh Singh (IPS), Director General of Police, Union Territory of Ladakh, as the Chief Guest. Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam, Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, attended the event as the Guest of Honour.

Welcoming the gathering, Tsering Palden (JKAS), Director Tourism, Ladakh, highlighted the growing importance of astro-tourism in the region. He informed that the dates for the Astro Festival have been fixed for the next three years to strengthen Ladakh’s tourism calendar and promote the region as a premier astro-tourism destination.

He added that extensive publicity has already been carried out following the announcement of the festival dates by the Lieutenant Governor of UT Ladakh. Expressing optimism, he said Ladakh has the potential to emerge as a global hub for astro-tourism in the coming years.

Prof. Annapurni Subramaniam delivered a detailed presentation on the history and contributions of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. She also explained why Hanle is considered one of the best locations in the world for astronomical observations and elaborated on the advanced equipment and facilities installed at the Hanle Observatory.

Addressing the gathering, Mukesh Singh congratulated the organisers for hosting the festival and stated that such initiatives provide an excellent platform to showcase the wonders of the universe while simultaneously promoting tourism in Ladakh. He remarked that astro-tourism has the potential to become a unique identity and trademark for the region.

Among others present on the occasion were Baseer Ul Haq Choudhary, IAS, Administrative Secretary, Public Works (R&B), Hospitality and Protocol, Estates, and Information & Public Relations Departments, UT Ladakh, and Nitish Rajora, IAS, Deputy Commissioner, Nyoma.

Following the inaugural session, an expert talk was delivered by Prof. Biman Nath from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Mohali, on the topic “Animal Astronomers: How Animals See Stars.” During the engaging session, he explained how animals navigate using stars, the relationship between migratory birds and celestial navigation, luminosity, and how various species are naturally adapted to observe the night sky.

He also spoke about ancient sciences, the issue of light pollution, and the importance of preserving dark skies for ecological balance. The session concluded with an interactive discussion with participants.

The inaugural day of the festival also featured interactive stalls, solar viewing sessions, an astro-photography gallery, and a night sky watch activity, attracting significant interest from visitors and participants.