We often choose daylight to admire the beauty of historical monuments or mountains, but have you ever wondered how the same place looks enveloped in the dense darkness of night? Imagine yourself standing near the Qutub Minar in Delhi; there's a profound silence around, yellow lights shimmer over the ruins of old buildings, and above, an airplane passes by as a twinkling streak across the sky.
In that moment, even a familiar place seems magical and mysterious. It's not just a view; it marks the beginning of tranquility everyone is seeking in today’s fast-paced life. This is why Indian tourists are now stepping away from the blazing sun and noisy crowds to find themselves in the calm of the night, a phenomenon known as 'Noctotourism.'
What is 'Noctotourism'?
Simply put, 'Noctotourism' refers to nighttime tourism. It involves steering clear of dazzling lights to stargaze, going on jungle safaris in the dark, or spending time in places with minimal light. According to a recent report by 'Booking.com,' this term is set to become the biggest buzzword in the travel world by 2025.
Statistics reveal that about 62% of travelers worldwide are now inclined to visit places where the sky is clear, and nights are deep. The craze is also soaring in India. A survey indicates that 78% of Indians have shown keen interest in nocturnal tourism this year. From the Dark Sky Reserve in Hanle, Ladakh, to silent night safaris in the wilderness, people are now befriending the darkness instead of fearing it.
Source: aajtak
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The Hidden Secret of Mental Calmness in Silent Nights
You might be wondering what's so special about this nocturnal journey. There’s actually a profound psychological and scientific reason behind it. Throughout the day, our brain remains in fight or flight mode due to noise, traffic, and work pressure. Psychologist Mehezabin Dordi states that in the tranquil, dimly lit environment of the night, our brain's sensory pressure reduces. This relaxes our nervous system and lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels in the body. The darkness gives us an opportunity to disconnect from the showiness of the outer world and introspect. This is why we feel more philosophical, emotional, and self-aware at night.
The Night Sky is a Reset Button for Overthinking
Most of us suffer from overthinking, a condition that makes us overanalyze. Psychologists suggest that nocturnal tourism helps break this mental loop. When you step out in the cool atmosphere of the night, the chilly air and nature's slow sounds act as a reset button for your mind. Stargazing, in particular, is a wonderful experience. Just like in our childhood when we counted stars, it connects us to a larger perspective as adults. When we gaze upon the infinite universe, our daily worries and problems seem insignificant. This experience instills gratitude within us and brings mental peace.
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Enjoyment with Caution is Essential
No doubt, night travel transports you to another world, but it's also important to remain cautious. If your nighttime adventures completely disrupt your sleep routine or you disregard safety, it might exhaust rather than refresh you. Thus, the true essence of noctotourism is enjoyed with responsibility and planning. Away from the day's bustling lights, this nighttime silence acts like a sensory therapy, boosting our creativity and rejuvenating us with a sense of newness.
