There is a specific kind of silence that only exists at 10,000 feet in the middle of a February night. For those into astrophotography in Auli, this is the “Dark Sky” paradise of India. In the winter, the air is thin, dry, and exceptionally clear, providing a window into the universe that you simply cannot find in the plains.

However, capturing the galactic core against the jagged peaks of the Himalayas requires more than just a good camera. It requires timing, endurance, and knowing exactly where to plant your tripod when the mercury hits -10°C.

Why February is Peak “Astro” Season

While the Milky Way’s core is traditionally most visible in summer, February marks the beginning of the “Core Rise” in the early morning hours. Around 4:00 AM to 5:30 AM, the galactic center begins to arch over the southeastern horizon, perfectly aligning with the Nanda Devi massif.

Additionally, the winter sky in February features the Orion Constellation and the Sirius star at their brightest. These serve as incredible subjects for wide-angle shots even before the Milky Way rises. According to stargazing experts, the high altitude of Auli reduces atmospheric interference, making every star “pop” with clinical sharpness.

Top 3 Spots for Astrophotography in Auli

1. The Artificial Lake (The Mirror Shot)

The Auli Artificial Lake is a favorite for a reason. On a calm February night, the water—if not frozen over—acts as a perfect mirror.

• The Composition: Frame the reflection of the Trishul peak in the water with the star trails circling above.
• Pro Tip: Use a slightly longer exposure (20-25 seconds) to smooth out any slight ripples in the water caused by the wind.

2. Gurso Bugyal (The 360-Degree Panorama)

A short 3km trek from the main slopes brings you to the wide-open alpine meadows of Gurso Bugyal.

• The Composition: This spot offers an unobstructed 360-degree view. It is the best place for capturing the Milky Way Arc stretching from the North to the Southeast.
• Safety Note: Always trek in a group for night shoots. The snow can hide trail marks, as mentioned in our Group Glamping Guide. 

3. The Auli Meadows Deck

If you prefer to stay close to warmth, the open decks at The Auli Meadows offer a stable, vibration-free platform for long exposures. You can set up your intervalometer and duck back inside for a hot tea while your camera does the work.

Camera Settings for -10°C

Astrophotography in Auli in winter presents a unique challenge: battery drain. Cold weather kills lithium-ion batteries rapidly.

1. Manual Focus: Set your lens to manual and focus on a bright star using “Live View” zoom. Do not rely on infinity markings; they often shift in extreme cold.
2. Aperture: Open your lens to its widest (f/1.8, f/2.8, or f/4).
3. ISO & Shutter: Start with ISO 3200 and a 20-second shutter speed. Use the “500 Rule” (500 divided by your focal length) to avoid star trailing.
4. White Balance: Set to “Tungsten” or around 3800K to give the night sky that deep, natural blue hue.

For a detailed technical breakdown of gear, check out this comprehensive astrophotography guide.

Survival Tips for Night Shoots

• Keep Spare Batteries in Your Pocket: Use your body heat to keep your extra batteries warm. A cold battery will show 0% even if it’s full.
• Avoid Light Pollution: Even a small flashlight can ruin a 20-second exposure. Use a red-light headlamp to preserve your night vision and your shot.
• Layer Up: You will be standing still for long periods. Follow the layering tips from our Rider’s Guide to stay warm.

Astrophotography in Auli is a test of patience. But when you look at your LCD screen and see the dust lanes of our galaxy floating over the highest peaks in India, you’ll realize that the frostbite was well worth the frame.