With tourist hotspots overflowing on the last day of the year, travellers advised to plan smartly for hassle-free journey
Pallavi Sharma
Dharamshala: Planning a New Year getaway with family or friends? This report is especially for you. As the year draws to a close, lakhs of tourists have hit the roads to welcome the New Year at popular destinations such as Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala and Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. However, unprecedented crowds, massive traffic snarls and packed tourist sites have made travel challenging, raising concerns over delays, inconvenience and even harassment on congested roads.
Authorities and travel experts say the surge in holiday traffic has slowed down highways, increased pressure on local infrastructure and, in some cases, led to unpleasant experiences for travellers. To ensure that celebrations do not turn stressful, experts recommend a few essential precautions to make the journey smoother and safer.
Book smart, leave early
With hotels running at near-full capacity, advance booking has become non-negotiable. Travellers without confirmed accommodation often find themselves stranded or forced to pay inflated prices.
Experts advise starting the journey only after securing hotel bookings. Leaving early in the morning can also help beat traffic congestion, allowing tourists to reach destinations before peak rush hours and explore attractions with relatively smaller crowds.
Stay alert, prioritise personal safety
Crowded tourist hubs demand extra caution. Travellers are advised to keep valuables secure, avoid isolated spots late at night and stay connected with companions at all times. Bags should remain zipped and personal belongings within sight. Solo travellers, in particular, should share their itinerary with family members and rely on authorised guides or registered transport services to avoid harassment or fraud.
Track traffic, plan alternatives
Real-time traffic updates can be a game-changer during peak travel days. Using navigation apps to monitor congestion and opting for alternate routes can save hours on the road.
Keeping an eye on weather forecasts is equally important, especially for hill destinations where fog, rain or snowfall can disrupt travel plans.
Carrying sufficient water and packed food is also recommended as long jams may leave travellers stranded without access to eateries.
As crores of people step out to ring in the New Year, a little planning and vigilance can go a long way in ensuring that the journey remains as joyful as the destination itself, says Gaurav Thakur, a travel expert.
