This three-day desert spectacle promises more than just astronomy; it will be a heartfelt celebration of Rajasthan’s legacy that will take place in the fiery embrace of the lunar eclipse. It provides a chance to explore lunar surface features and atmospheric scattering from an astronomical standpoint.
What is the Blood Moon Festival 2025?
The Blood Moon Festival of 2025 is a celebration of the total lunar eclipse that will occur on the night of September 7 and 8, during which the Earth’s shadow will cause the moon to appear red. This celestial phenomenon is expected to be a breathtaking 82-minute show that can be observed across Asia, Australia, Africa, and parts of Europe.
In India, spectators are likely to witness it between 11 pm and 12:22 am. The Blood Moon Festival in Jaisalmer blends cultural events, unique desert experiences, and astronomy observation of the lunar eclipse.
Blood Moon Festival 2025 Venue
Located amid the untamed Thar, Shama Desert Camp is the focal point of the celebration in Jaisalmer. The festival blends cultural events like Rajasthani campfires, folktales, and heritage excursions with celestial experiences like stargazing and astrophotography.
What to expect from the 2025 Jaisalmer Blood Moon Festival?
Astronomical sessions
The celebrations begin with astronomical sessions conducted by professionals who walk guests through the stages of the total lunar eclipse while explaining the workings of the sky and the significance of the ‘Blood Moon ‘ in history.
Views assisted by high-powered telescopes
Using powerful telescopes, visitors will be able to observe the whirling storms of Jupiter, the magnificent rings of Saturn, and the changing colours of the Moon in real time—not just with their eyes, but also through the lens.
Astrophotography workshops
Professional and amateur photographers, as well as future sky photographers, will learn how to capture the night with accuracy and creativity through a series of astrophotography seminars that cover everything from DSLR setups to smartphone approaches.
Guided heritage tours
The festival incorporates Rajasthani heritage into its colourful tapestry. The cosmic experience will be rooted in enduring local culture as attendees take part in guided heritage tours via famous sites, including Sonar Quila (Jaisalmer Fort), Gadisar Lake, and the Longewala War Memorial.
Campfire evenings
As night falls, campfire evenings come to life as travellers come together in warmth by shared stories, folk tunes, and aromatic Rajasthani cuisine against the chilly embrace of the Thar.
Best Stargazing Backdrops
There are lots of natural observatories in Jaisalmer for those arriving early or staying longer:
Only 40 km distant, Sam Sand Dunes welcomes visitors to recline and take in the sights, including meteor showers and constellations.
The quieter and less crowded Khuri Sand Dunes are ideal for peaceful nighttime photography under clear skies.
Located high, Jaisalmer Fort offers surprisingly clear views of the night sky in addition to its heritage appeal.