Urban life has become all about being cooped up in concrete jungles devoid of lush greenery and large open spaces to sit back and repose. To offer an escape, getaways where the night sky takes centre stage, untouched by city lights, make for the perfect escape. Picture spending your nights under a canopy of stars, its vastness and constellations, and the quiet beauty of the Milky Way stretching endlessly above. Here are some handpicked hotels and retreats for an unforgettable stargazing experience.
Whistling Woods, an eco-retreat in Beodnabad, Sri Vijaya Puram (formerly Port Blair), offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery and stunning landscapes. Known for its nature walks, birdwatching, and astro tourism, it provides breathtaking sunrise and sunset views. With cosy accommodations that blend with nature, Whistling Woods is perfect for solo travellers, couples, and families seeking relaxation and exploration.
How To Reach
Whistling Woods is located in Beodnabad, just a short distance from Sri Vijaya Puram, making it easily accessible from the Veer Savarkar International Airport. From the airport, it takes around 20–30 minutes by road. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available outside the airport. One can also opt for private cabs or bike rentals for convenience.
Ferries are another way to reach the retreat if you arrive from another island like Swaraj Dweep (formerly Havelock Islands) or Shaheed Dweep (formerly Neil Island).
Whistling Woods is about a 15 km ferry ride from Sri Vijaya Puram.
Escape to a luxurious three-bedroom pool villa in Karjat, offering stunning views of Morbe Dam and skylight bedrooms for a unique stargazing experience. Relax under the stars as you sleep beneath the skylight, and wake up to the serene beauty of the morning sun. Indulge in BBQ delights and homemade meals from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The drive to the villa is equally scenic, passing by a glistening lake reminiscent of the European countryside. Explore nearby attractions like Katwan Mountain View Point, Umroli Waterfalls, Kalote Mokashi, and Sondai Fort for an unforgettable countryside getaway.
How To Reach
SaffronStays Stargazer is easily accessible, but guests are advised to check road and weather conditions before embarking on a road trip. The best way to reach the property is by private car or taxi.
For public transport, the nearest bus stop is 11 km from Karjat Bus Depot, the closest train station is 11.5 km from Karjat Junction, and Mumbai International Airport is 70 km away.
Stargaze Backpackers is the perfect spot for travellers seeking a cosy and vibrant stay in Shillong. Offering free WiFi throughout the property, the hostel features a shared kitchen, lounge, and rooms with city views—some are even equipped with a terrace. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, live music performances, and walking tours. But the real highlight is the stargazing experience—whether from the comfort of your room or the shared spaces, this hostel offers an exceptional opportunity to gaze at the stars in the clear Shillong sky, making it an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
How To Reach
The hostel is conveniently just 37 km from the Shillong Airport. Stargaze Backpackers Shillong is 3.5 km from the centre of Shillong and can be reached by private car, taxi, or bus.
Beadon Falls waterfall is also five km away from the property, making it easily accessible for tourists who want to explore the beauty of the city.
SaffronStays Big Dipper - Cosmos in Bir, Himachal Pradesh, offers an extraordinary all-weather glamping experience 9,000 ft above sea level. Nestled between Bir and Barot Valley, this pet-friendly retreat is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace. Enjoy stargazing under the Milky Way, paragliding, hiking, yoga, and art therapy, or simply relax by the bonfire on chilly evenings.
Inspired by the Big Dipper constellation, the site features stunning structures and a meditation zone for ultimate tranquility. Focused on luxury and wildlife preservation, SaffronStays Big Dipper offers an unforgettable experience amidst breathtaking mountain views, a meditation zone, and a stargazing spot.
How To Reach
Getting to SaffronStays Big Dipper - Cosmos is easy from several key locations. From Dharamshala, it takes around three hours by car. If you're coming from Bir, the journey is much shorter, with a drive of approximately one hour. The retreat is just a 20-minute drive away for those staying in Billing.
Conveniently located, SaffronStays Big Dipper offers easy access from these popular destinations, making it an excellent spot for a quick getaway into the serene mountains of Himachal Pradesh.
Desia Eco Camp in Koraput offers a unique blend of luxury and eco-friendliness, making it the perfect getaway for nature lovers and stargazing enthusiasts. The camp features a range of accommodations, from standard to premium mud houses, all designed to harmonise with the natural surroundings.
But the real magic lies in the night sky. With minimal light pollution, it’s an ideal location for stargazing. Guests can immerse themselves in an enriching celestial experience, gazing at the stars and the Milky Way, making Desia Eco Camp an unforgettable hotel for those seeking both relaxation and cosmic wonder while stargazing.
How To Reach
Desia Eco Camp is easily accessible from Jeypore Airport (PYB), located just 48.6 km away. Alternatively, the nearest railway station in Koraput also provides convenient access, making the camp well-connected by air and rail for a hassle-free journey.
SaffronStays Glasshouse Celeste in Ranikhet offers a luxurious three-bedroom eco-villa with panoramic 360 degree views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Designed with modern glass pavilion architecture, the villa is 90 per cent solar-powered and features a rainwater harvesting system, blending sustainability with comfort.
The highlight is its stunning stargazing experience. Unwind under radiant skylights in hand-crafted marble bathtubs or gaze at the stars from the glass roofs. The villa's floor-to-ceiling windows provide uninterrupted views of the Kumaon hills, while the serene terrace and garden offer a peaceful space to relax and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty around you.
How To Reach
Almora and Ranikhet are approximately 110 km (about four hours) from Pantnagar Airport, located 60 km north of Nainital. While there are limited direct flights from Delhi, one-stop options are available from Mumbai and Bengaluru. It's recommended that you check flight availability and schedules before booking your stay.
The villa is located 140 km (around 4.5 hours) from the airport, making it easily accessible for a scenic getaway in the heart of the Kumaon region.