Kolli Hills Gets Tamil Nadu’s First Dark Sky Park

Tamil Nadu Forest Department has established the state’s first Dark Sky Park at Ariyur Shola Forest in Kolli Hills which is in Namakkal district. The project is designed to protect natural night skies from artificial light pollution while creating a dedicated space for public astronomical observation. This reserve Developed at a cost of ₹1 crore. And this initiative promotes sustainable tourism, scientific awareness and environmental conservation in one of Tamil Nadu’s most scenic hill regions.

Dark Sky Park at Ariyur Shola Forest – What Makes It Special?

Key Highlights of Tamil Nadu’s First Dark Sky Park

• Location: Ariyur Shola Forest in Kolli Hills, Namakkal district
• Cost of Development: ₹1 crore
• Main Objective: Reduce light pollution and protect natural night skies
• Facilities Installed: Three advanced telescopes for structured sky observation
• Power Supply: Solar panels ensure sustainable and uninterrupted energy
• Special Camps: Whole-night stargazing camps 2-3 times a month
• Best Viewing Time: Around the new moon phase for maximum sky clarity
• Accommodation: Stay available at Agaya Gangai eco-huts
• Transport: Arranged by the Forest Department

This Dark Sky Park in Kolli Hills aims to position Tamil Nadu as a responsible and sustainable astro-tourism destination.

Why Kolli Hills Was Chosen for the Dark Sky Park

According to Forest Secretary Supriya Sahu, a Dark Sky Park is a designated area protected from excessive artificial lighting which is allowing clear visibility of celestial objects like the moon, stars, and planets.

Kolli Hills offers ideal natural conditions such as,

• Elevated terrain
• Dense forest cover
• Minimal urban light interference

These features make Ariyur Shola Forest an optimal site for preserving the night sky. The limited light pollution ensures high quality astronomical observation. Also making the Dark Sky Park both scientifically and environmentally valuable.

Facilities and Educational Programs at the Dark Sky Park

The Dark Sky Park is not just about tourism it is also a center for learning and awareness.

• Three advanced telescopes support guided observation sessions.
• Solar-powered systems promote eco friendly operations.
• Daytime educational programs will be conducted for students, researchers and visitors.
• Structured stargazing sessions are organized during significant astronomical events.

By combining conservation and education, the Dark Sky Park in Kolli Hills encourages scientific curiosity while maintaining ecological balance.

Boost to Eco-Tourism and Local Livelihoods

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department’s Dark Sky Park initiative integrates conservation with controlled tourism.

The project is expected to,

• Promote responsible astro-tourism in Tamil Nadu
• Strengthen environmental stewardship
• Generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities
• Offer a unique scientific and recreational experience

By regulating this visitor access and minimizing environmental impact, the Dark Sky Park ensures long-term sustainability.

What Is a Dark Sky Park?

• A Dark Sky Park is a protected area recognized for its exceptional quality of starry nights and minimal light pollution.
• These parks are safeguarded from artificial lighting to preserve the natural darkness of the sky.
• Globally, Dark Sky Parks are promoted to raise awareness about the harmful effects of light pollution on wildlife, ecosystems and human health.
• Such parks also encourage astronomy-based tourism.
• Tamil Nadu’s Kolli Hills Dark Sky Park now joins this global movement toward night-sky conservation and sustainable development.

Question

Q. Tamil Nadu’s first Dark Sky Park has been established at,

A) Ooty
B) Yercaud
C) Kolli Hills
D) Kodaikanal