Severe heatwaves and hot weather in cities across India are now driving millions of people to hill stations to seek relief. This has led to overtourism and heavy traffic jams in popular mountain towns in India. What should have been peaceful vacations have now turned into scenes of endless traffic on the roads. Be it Kodaikanal or Mussoorie, the situation is almost the same everywhere.
Overtourism At Popular Hill Stations Of India
The heatwave continues to scorch several cities in India, and just like every year, many people are travelling to hill stations to get some relief and enjoy the cool weather. But the reality is far from what they expected. India’s most loved hill stations are now struggling under the pressure of overtourism, with endless traffic jams on the roads. Videos are going viral online showing people stuck in their cars for hours on the way to these spots.
According to News18, Manali witnessed a massive tourist inflow, causing congestion across the mountain town and surrounding areas. Videos showed tourists stranded for hours while trying to enter the hill station. Shimla also faced a similar situation. Police had to deploy additional traffic personnel and volunteers to clear the roads. An X user, @Mishtibishnoi, uploaded a video showing a traffic jam en route to Manali.
Also Read: Why Hill Stations In India Are Not A Refuge From Summer Heat Anymore?
Mussoorie & Kodaikanal Witness Heavy Congestion
Viral videos also showed traffic jams on the route to Mussoorie, a popular hill station in Uttarakhand. The place is witnessing intense crowds due to the peak summer in Delhi-NCR and neighbouring states. Moreover, the newly operational Delhi-Dehradun Expressway, which has reduced travel time, is also making Mussoorie highly accessible for short weekend trips among families and friend groups. An Instagram user, @iamsurajmoyal, uploaded a video showing the rush in Mussoorie.
According to News18, the situation is no different in the south. Kodaikanal in Tamil Nadu also witnessed long queues of vehicles clogging its narrow hill roads. These roads were never designed for such tourism pressure, raising concerns among many people. Even the roads leading to the Kedarnath Temple have seen massive overcrowding during the Char Dham Yatra season.
Tourists are struggling, but locals in these hill stations are also speaking out against irresponsible tourist behaviour and overtourism. They believe it is causing an overflow of trash and damaging ecosystems.
Also Read: Women Are Leading India’s Travel Trend As Over 80% Choose Beach Destinations Over Hill Stations
What do you think about this situation? Do share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
Cover Image Courtesy: @Mishtibishnoi/X and @iamsurajmoyal/ Instagram
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What are some of the best hill stations in India?
Some popular hill stations in India include Manali, Mussoorie, Shimla, Ooty, and Kodaikanal.