Shimla, Manali, Kullu, and Dharamshala Overrun by Year-End Holiday Tourists, Causing Traffic Chaos Across Himachal Pradesh – Here’s What Tourists Should Know

Published on December 27, 2025

As the year-end festive season draws people across India to the majestic hills of Himachal Pradesh, the usual calm of Shimla, Manali, and Kullu has given way to bustling streets and a surge of vehicles. The ongoing Winter Carnival in Shimla, along with the year-end holidays, has attracted an unprecedented influx of tourists. With over 8,000 to 10,000 vehicles reaching Shimla daily, traffic congestion is becoming a growing concern. As the New Year approaches, these hill stations are witnessing a boom in both tourism and traffic, challenging the local infrastructure and authorities.

A Surge in Tourist Arrivals

This winter, the Winter Carnival hosted at Shimla’s historic Ridge Ground has become a major draw for domestic travelers. For nine days, visitors from all corners of India have gathered in the capital of Himachal Pradesh to participate in the vibrant celebrations. The event has seen tourists from cities such as Delhi-NCR escaping the smog of the plains to experience the cooler climate and festivities of the hills. The appeal of Shimla, with its colonial charm, coupled with the vibrant carnival activities, makes it one of the top destinations during this period.

However, with such a large number of visitors flocking to the region, the flow of traffic has reached critical levels. As tourists head toward Shimla, Manali, and Kullu, authorities are working tirelessly to maintain smooth traffic flow and ensure the safety of all visitors. In Shimla, the police have put in place extensive traffic management measures, with 400 police personnel deployed at key points to manage the surge in traffic.

Managing the Chaos: What Authorities Are Doing

With over three lakh tourists expected to visit Shimla over the next week, the local police force is gearing up for the busiest days of the season. Traffic estimates indicate a constant arrival of 8,000 to 10,000 vehicles daily. To manage this, Shimla’s police have conducted detailed assessments of sensitive locations and areas most likely to experience overcrowding. Special measures have been implemented to control the influx of vehicles and ensure the safety of tourists and locals alike.

Sanjeev Kumar Gandhi, Senior Superintendent of Police for Shimla, mentioned that major traffic points and crowded areas had been identified, and necessary arrangements for security and crowd control were in place. Despite these measures, the sheer volume of traffic has resulted in long queues, with many tourists expressing frustration at the slow-moving traffic.

The Impact of Lack of Snowfall

Although the festivities at the Winter Carnival have been a major hit, some tourists have been disappointed by the absence of snowfall this year. The crisp air and festive ambiance of Shimla during Christmas time were enjoyed by many, but for some, the lack of snow dampened their experience. Popular snow destinations like Gramphu, a snow point accessible by 4×2 vehicles, have become overcrowded due to the demand for snow-related activities.

Several visitors shared that while they had enjoyed the carnival’s offerings, they were hoping for snowfall to add to the charm of the hill stations. For many, experiencing snowfall is a key part of their visit, and with snowfall playing such a significant role in the tourism draw for Shimla, the lack of it has slightly impacted the experience for some tourists.

Popular Destinations and the Strain on Infrastructure

Shimla is not the only hotspot witnessing this influx of visitors. Kullu-Manali and Dharamshala, other famous destinations in Himachal Pradesh, are also seeing similar surges in tourist arrivals. The area has become a magnet for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life, opting instead for the tranquil beauty of the Himalayas.

With the increasing number of vehicles and tourists visiting these hill stations, the local infrastructure is under significant pressure. Hotels, homestays, and even restaurants in these regions have been reporting full bookings, with many visitors opting for longer stays. The surge in visitors has led to higher demand for services, putting local businesses and tourism facilities to the test.

Travel Tips for Tourists Heading to Himachal Pradesh

For those planning to visit Shimla, Manali, or Kullu during the festive season, here are some important tips to make your trip smoother:

1. Book Accommodations Early: With high demand for hotels and homestays, it is crucial to book your stay well in advance.
2. Check Road Conditions: Be prepared for traffic jams and plan your journey accordingly. Avoid traveling during peak hours to reduce delays.
3. Pack Warm Clothes: Even without snow, the weather in Shimla and the surrounding areas can be quite cold, so ensure you are adequately dressed.
4. Be Patient with Traffic: With the massive influx of tourists, expect delays on the roads. It’s best to be patient and enjoy the scenic views as you travel.
5. Respect Local Guidelines: Follow all traffic and safety instructions given by the authorities to ensure a safe trip.

What’s Next for Himachal Pradesh Tourism?

Looking forward, authorities in Shimla and other popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh will continue to focus on improving traffic management and local infrastructure to handle the growing tourist numbers. The tourism sector remains a significant contributor to the local economy, and with ongoing improvements, the state is poised to continue attracting both domestic and international visitors.

In the future, better road infrastructure, enhanced security measures, and a more organized flow of tourists will ensure that Himachal Pradesh remains a must-visit destination during the holiday season. However, tourists should remain aware of the potential for overcrowding and should plan their visits with flexibility in mind.