Vainu Bappu Observatory - Research institute in Kavalur, Naickanoor - Tirupathur, India

Our visit to.Vainnu Bappu Observatory was truly remarkable. We obtained the necessary permissions and a designated time slot for our school group, which was set at 2:30 in the afternoon. Prior to the observatory visit, we explored Bheeman Falls in the morning. The entire experience, from the moment we entered the observatory gate until our departure, was meticulously organized by the observatory staff. Upon arrival, a scientist treated our students to an engaging 45-minute presentation, which left them enlightened and inspired. On Saturdays, the observatory is open to the public, boasting three impressive telescopes. The moment the observatory dome opened, and the telescope's rotation was demonstrated, it left us all in awe. The observatory is located about a kilometer from the entrance, and the walk to reach it was a delightful experience. The facility was impeccably maintained, and every setup was in pristine condition. The entire staff, from security to administrative officers, was exceptionally helpful. To conclude our visit, we were treated to tea at the canteen. It's evident that the students thoroughly enjoyed the trip, and I am confident that it has ignited their curiosity and interest in the field of astrophysics.

The First time am visiting IIA ,kavalur.The place around 100acre.It is 2nd largest telescope in Asia .The staff are polite and employees explain lot about giant telescope .Don't come at monsoon weather and overcast time

*Entry fee is 50rs (include a free tea/cofee) *Open only at Saturday 2:30pm and will be sent inside in batches (50ppl) *We have to walk 1.5km inside from the entrance. *Dont expect any refreshment/food or shop nearby as noting is there. * expect a central govt attitude (if u've already experienced one).

We went on 20th May 2023, Visitors are allowed on every Saturday between 2 to 4 pm in batches. You have to walk for 1 km to reach the main telescope (93 inches), there will be 20 minutes session on how the telescope works and they will rotate the big telescope for demo. That's it nothing much there to visit. After sunset (no proper timing) they will allow us to see ONE planet (either Venus or Saturn) with our bare eyes via 6 inch telescope.This is open ONLY if the sky in clear without clouds. We have to take snacks and water as there is no shops near by. We maintained toilets. Charging 50 rupees only for adults. Bit crowded these holidays.

This place is 50km from yelagiri and will take 1.5 hours so plan accordingly. Visitors are allowed only on Saturday and entry closes at 4:30pm. They will show a ppt about astrophysics for 30 mins. Then we can have tea/cofee. Finally you can see venus using 6inch small telescope and see the moon using a binoculars.

I have seen the moon very closely and the biggest telescope is mesmerising . Amazing experience

Telescope are the Gateway to Astronomy, The place to kindle our interest in Astronomy. A must place to visit. The staffs are so helpful in explaining the process and Telescope Working. The telescope they allow us to visit are for scientists research, they explain how it works. Felt so inspired.

VBO is nested in the scenic Javadhu Hills. Well maintained, polite staff. Houses Asia's largest Telescope. What a sight to see that in operation. Kids MUST be shown these to kindle their interests. Accessibility Rating : 3/5 ( Local buses ply but their timings are bit erratic) From Chennai : By Train : Reach Vaniyambadi. Take a local bus that goes to Jamunamarthur directly = One can get down just outside of VBO If one takes a bus that goes to Kavalur directly = Get down at the last stop(Kavalur) and walk the rest odd Km by walk. A calm, quiet place and if one wishes to commune with nature, this walk is a blessing. Alternatively one can take a bus to Aalangayam which is a mini hub from where the above buses can be boarded ,coming in from various nearby towns. Ticket is priced at Rupees(INR) 50/- which includes a modest tea/coffee in the canteen. Entry to viewing for general public: Only on Saturdays between 2 PM and 6 PM. If the sky is clear, they do allow viewing till 7PM in the smaller telescope. Food: No nearby hotels. Either one has to go to nearby place called Chathram or to Jamunamarthur(10Kms from VBO) for food. Families travelling with kids may carry their own food to avoid any inconvenience. A must place visit, atleast once.