Nandi hills closed to tourists on New Year's eve

Chikkaballapur: In view of the expected surge in tourists and vehicular congestion during New Year celebrations, the district administration has imposed restrictions on entry to the popular tourist destination Nandi Hills.

As Bengaluru residents and visitors from other districts and states traditionally flock to Nandi Hills to welcome the New Year, the number of visitors often swells far beyond capacity. While thousands visit the hill station on regular days, the footfall crosses 25,000 on December 31, leading to severe crowding and traffic issues.

To ensure public safety and smooth traffic management, the Chikkaballapur Deputy Commissioner has ordered a complete ban on the entry of tourists and vehicles to Nandi Hills from 2 pm on December 31 until 10 am on January 1.

However, the restriction will not apply to tourists who have pre-booked guest house accommodation at Nandi Hills. Such visitors will be allowed entry upon producing valid booking confirmation. Apart from this exception, all other tourists and vehicles will be barred from accessing the hill station during the restricted period.

The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to prevent overcrowding and to facilitate orderly New Year celebrations.