Viewpoints · Kalipokhri
Stargazing over the border at Kalipokhri
On clear, moonless nights Kalipokhri's high, dark sky shows the Milky Way from horizon to horizon. Step outside the lodge after dinner, let your eyes adjust for ten minutes and look up.
At over 3,000 m, with no towns nearby and dry autumn air, Kalipokhri has one of the darkest skies on the trek. On moonless nights from October to February the Milky Way arches overhead and you can see far more stars than in any city. Satellites drift across; shooting stars are common in mid-December during the Geminids.
Turn off your torch and give your eyes ten minutes. Use a red light if you need one. The pond reflects bright stars on still nights. Photographers will want a tripod and a wide lens; keep batteries warm in an inside pocket.
It will be cold, often below freezing. Wear everything: down jacket, cap, gloves, warm socks. Stay out for half an hour, then go back to the stove. Check the moon phase before your trek if the stars matter to you.
Cost: Free
Questions people ask
Good to know
Is Kalipokhri good for stargazing?
Yes, on clear moonless nights from October to February. The high altitude, dry air and lack of nearby towns make for very dark skies. Lodge lights are few, but step a little away from them for the best view.
When is the best time to see the Milky Way on the Sandakphu trek?
Clear nights around the new moon from October to February. The core of the Milky Way is best in spring and early autumn evenings, but the band of stars is visible year-round on dark nights. Avoid full-moon dates.
What should I bring for night photography?
A small tripod, a wide lens with a fast aperture, spare batteries kept warm, a head torch with a red mode and warm gloves that let you use buttons. Expect exposures of 15–25 seconds.
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