Hanle

Hanle is a remote high-altitude village in the Changthang region of Ladakh, famous for hosting India's highest astronomical observatory. At 4,500 meters above sea level, Hanle offers some of the clearest and darkest skies in the world, making it an ideal location for stargazing and astrophotography.

The Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO) in Hanle is operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics and houses one of the world's highest optical telescopes. The observatory's location was chosen for its exceptional atmospheric conditions, minimal light pollution, and high number of clear nights.

Beyond astronomy, Hanle is a beautiful village surrounded by vast high-altitude plains, snow-capped mountains, and pristine wilderness. The village offers a unique opportunity to experience life at extreme altitudes while witnessing the cosmos in unparalleled clarity.

Hanle has been a significant location in the Changthang region for centuries, serving as a stopover for traders and travelers on ancient routes. The village's name is derived from the Tibetan word "Hanle," meaning a place of rest or shelter.

The Indian Astronomical Observatory was established in Hanle in 2001 after extensive site surveys. The location was selected because it offers over 250 clear nights per year, minimal atmospheric turbulence, and extremely low light pollution. The observatory has since become a center for astronomical research and has put Hanle on the global astronomy map.

Today, Hanle attracts both astronomers and astro-tourists who come to experience the pristine dark skies and witness celestial phenomena that are rarely visible from other locations.