In a significant boost to Astro tourism in the state, Uttarakhand’s first-ever residential Astro Tour Guide Training Programme was formally inaugurated today in Kausani. The initiative is being conducted under the Uttarakhand Tourism Department.
The programme was jointly inaugurated by Bageshwar MLA Parvati Das and Hotel Association President Mr. Gajendra Mehra. The event was presided over by District Tourism Development Officer, Bageshwar, Mr. Gautam.
A key highlight of the inauguration was a special virtual session addressed by Ms. Poonam Chand, Additional Director, Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB). She interacted directly with trainees online and extended her best wishes, calling the initiative a progressive step toward diversifying the state’s tourism sector.
Several local dignitaries and participants from different districts of Uttarakhand attended the event. Notable attendees included Gandhi Ashram Manager Ramesh Chandra Pandey, Puran Chand Pandey from Lakshmi Ashram Kausani, and Harendra Chilwal, Secretary, Hotel Association, along with other association members.
The 15-day training programme is being conducted by Starscapes Experience Private Limited. Training Officer Hemchand Sharma is leading technical and practical sessions covering various aspects of astro tourism.
This marks the first residential astro tour guide training initiative by the Uttarakhand Government. Accommodation for trainees has been arranged at the Dak Bungalow and District Panchayat Hotel in Kausani, where participants from across the state are staying during the training.
The programme reflects the state government’s forward-looking vision in the emerging field of astro tourism. A total of 500 youth across Uttarakhand will be trained in phases. Upon completion, participants will receive certification through UTDB and the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), which will be valid for future licensing.
The training is being held at Anasakti Ashram, Kausani, in coordination with the Connect Kausani team.
