The Astrostays model of Astro-tourism aims to achieve sustainable development in remote and rural communities by leveraging astronomy and tourism in conjunction with other elements. In 2019, a pilot project was run in the northern India state of Ladakh where villagers from a remote mountainous community were trained on basic astronomy and telescope operation. They were then assisted to setup homestays in a portion of their house as well as trained on hospitality, book keeping, and other aspects required to host tourists. Potential visitors could book one of the homestays online, experience local tradition and culture by staying within the community, as well as partake in the stargazing sessions at night run by the villagers. The project generated a big boost in income for the community, creating a total revenue of 5200 USD and engaging more than 600 tourists during the first 4 months of operation.
In addition to direct income, the project benefitted the community in other ways, leading to a holistic impact.
- Women empowerment: project participants were majority women (since the men in the villages are typically away for work), thus improving employability and employment of women.
- Sustainable tourism: homes of the villagers were converted to homestays which tourists could book online and spend the night in. Staying with a local makes for an experiential holiday as well as promotes cultural exchange. The village itself runs on solar-based microgrid installed by our project partner Global Himalayan Expedition. So the travelers stay is also climate-friendly.
- Revenue generated has been invested back into community and local infrastructure projects such as solar heating and greenhouses.
- Scientific temper: exposure to astronomy and the training slowly led to increased scientific temper and interest in science among the youth, even those not directly involved in the project
