1. Where is Hanle?
Hanle is a small village in the Ladakh region of India, located at an altitude of around 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. It is part of the Changthang plateau, near the Indo-Tibetan border.
2. Why is Hanle Special for Astronomy?
Hanle is one of the best places on Earth to observe the night sky due to:
✅ Extremely Low Light Pollution – Minimal human activity means a clear, dark sky.
✅ High Altitude – Less atmospheric interference for sharper views.
✅ Dry Climate – Fewer clouds and low humidity make it ideal for telescopes.
3. Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), Hanle 🔭
Hanle hosts the Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. It is one of the world’s highest observatories, featuring:
- A 2.01-meter optical-infrared telescope.
- A robotic Himalayan Chandra Telescope, remotely operated from Bengaluru.
- Future plans for the National Large Solar Telescope (NLST).
4. Hanle and the Milky Way Galaxy 🌠
Due to Hanle’s pristine skies, you can see:
✨ The Milky Way stretching across the sky with the naked eye.
✨ Nebulae, Star Clusters, and Galaxies using a telescope.
✨ Meteor Showers like the Perseids & Geminids.
5. How to Visit Hanle?
- Permit Required: Hanle is in a sensitive border area, so Indian tourists need an Inner Line Permit (ILP), and foreign travelers require special permissions.
- Best Time to Visit: May to September for clear skies and good weather.
- How to Reach?
- From Leh, Hanle is about 250 km (8-10 hours drive).
- You can travel by SUV or bike, as the roads are rugged.
