Unveiling the Cosmos in the Heart of Nature
Nestled within the serene wilderness of Rajasthan, where the forest speaks in rustling leaves and silence sings in the wind, Chokhiwadi offers more than just a retreat—it offers a portal to the stars.
As dusk falls and the sky slips into velvet, our guests gather under the open canopy of night for one of the most awe-inspiring experiences at our retreat: Celestial Nights at Chokhiwadi. Using a powerful 8-inch Dobsonian telescope by Pie Matrix, we invite you to witness the grandeur of our solar system—and beyond.
From the detailed craters of the Moon to the glittering belts of Jupiter, this is stargazing the way our ancestors once dreamed of, set in the embrace of the forest.
An Ancient Forest Meets the Infinite Sky
At Chokhiwadi, we believe that wellness is not just about the body—it’s about awakening your sense of wonder.
Our resort is tucked into a quiet, forested landscape where electricity is minimal, and nature is vast. This makes our skies exceptionally clear. The absence of light pollution gives us one of the darkest, most pristine night skies in the region—perfect for observing celestial bodies in vivid detail.
Here, the sky becomes your ceiling, and the stars—your storytellers.
The Telescope: Your Portal to the Planets
Our 8-inch Dobsonian telescope, built by Pie Matrix, is known for its simple design and powerful optics. This telescope gathers significant light, allowing us to explore not just stars—but planets, moons, clusters, and nebulae.
Under our guidance, guests get hands-on experience with:
The Moon – Witness mountain ranges, craters, and maria (lunar plains) with stunning clarity. On certain nights, you can track the Moon’s phases and see shadows dance along its rugged terrain.
Saturn – Gasp as you behold its iconic rings, delicately slicing through space. On clear nights, you can even spot Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.
Jupiter – See the planet’s swirling storms and the famous Great Red Spot. You’ll also be able to identify its four Galilean moons—Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto—lining up like tiny pearls.
Stars & Clusters – Marvel at the Pleiades cluster, the glitter of Sirius, or trace the outlines of constellations that ancient civilizations once navigated by.
An Experience for Everyone
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomy enthusiast or a first-time skywatcher, our sessions are designed to make the universe accessible and deeply moving. We combine technical guidance with storytelling, myth, and silence.
Our sessions usually begin post-dinner when the skies are darkest. You’ll be welcomed with warm herbal tea as we walk you to our forest clearing—the SkyMirror Grove. We start by observing with the naked eye, identifying major constellations, planets, and cosmic directions. Then, through the Dobsonian’s lens, the magic begins.
Many of our guests describe the first sight of Saturn’s rings as a “spiritual moment.” For some, it’s the craters of the moon that stir an ancient memory. And for others, it’s simply the silence of looking into something infinite.
Guided by Nature, Grounded by Science
Each Celestial Night is guided by our in-house nature and sky interpreter who helps guests understand what they’re seeing—not just through facts, but through poetry, metaphor, and ancient sky stories.
Perfect for Families, Couples, Solo Travelers
For families, this is a deeply bonding experience—children love peeking into the telescope and asking endless questions.
For couples, it becomes an intimate memory—imagine whispering dreams under Saturn’s gaze.
For solo travelers, it’s a meditative practice—watching the cosmos in absolute silence with only the forest around you.
When to Come for the Best Stargazing
Our Celestial Nights run seasonally, and visibility depends on the moon phase and sky clarity. The best times to visit are during:
Booking Your Celestial Night
Charges apply for stargazing. Please let us know in advance if you’d like to join a session, so we can prepare accordingly.
We also offer private telescope sessions on request for birthdays, proposals, and special nights.
Let the Universe Hold You
In the quiet of the forest, the sky feels closer. Time slows down. The light of Jupiter, which has travelled 600 million kilometers to meet your eye, arrives with grace.
At Chokhiwadi, we don’t just show you the stars—we invite you to remember that you are made of them.
Come, lie back. Look up. Let the wilderness and the cosmos remind you: