Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES) is a research institute located in Nainital, Uttarakhand, India. It specialises in astronomy, solar physics, astrophysics and atmospheric science, and functions as an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.
The institute is situated at Manora Peak, at an elevation of 1,951 metres (6,401 ft), about 9 kilometres from Nainital, the headquarters of the Kumaon division. The hill location, away from urban light sources, supports observational work in astronomy and related atmospheric studies.
ARIES undertakes research across a range of areas, including stellar and solar observations, astrophysical studies and investigations relating to the atmosphere. Its work is carried out within the broader framework of scientific research supported by the Department of Science and Technology.
The astronomical observatory at ARIES is open to members of the public on afternoons, and visits on occasional moonlit nights are permitted subject to prior permission. This access offers visitors an opportunity to view the observatory facilities at Manora Peak.