In a significant move aimed at ensuring public safety, the Chikkamagaluru district administration in Karnataka has announced a temporary prohibition on tourist visits to a total of 22 popular destinations across the district during the upcoming New Year's Eve celebrations. The decision comes as authorities anticipate a massive influx of visitors, which could pose challenges to law and order.
Administrative Order to Curb Congestion
The directive was officially issued by Deputy Commissioner CN Meena Nagaraj. The order was enacted following a formal recommendation from the district's Superintendent of Police, Vikram Amathe. The primary objective is to maintain peace and prevent any potential untoward incidents during the peak celebration period.
The ban will be effective for a 12-hour window, starting from 6:00 PM on December 31, 2025, until 6:00 AM on January 1, 2026. During this time, general tourist access to the listed spots will be completely denied to the public.
Complete List of Restricted Tourist Spots
The administration's order encompasses a wide range of scenic and adventurous locations spread across various taluks of Chikkamagaluru. The restricted spots include:
- Chikkamagaluru Taluk: Mullayanagiri, Seethalayyanagiri, Manikyadhara, Jhari Falls, Honnammana Halla, Gaali Kere, and Hirekolale Lake.
- Mudigere Taluk: Ettina Bhuja, Devaramane, Rani Jhari, Ballalarayana Durga, Bandaje Falls, and Kudige Falls.
- Kalasa Taluk: Kyatanamakki, Rudrapada, Hanging Bridge, and Abbugudige Falls.
- Kadur Taluk: Ayyanakere and Madagadakere.
- Tarikere Taluk: Kemmannugundi, Kallathigiri, and Hebbe Falls.
Exemptions for Pre-Booked Tourists
Recognizing the inconvenience to travelers with prior commitments, the district order includes a crucial exemption clause. Tourists who have already made online bookings for accommodations at homestays and resorts located along the routes to these banned spots will be permitted to proceed to their respective lodgings.
However, their movement will be strictly limited to transit to their booked accommodation. They will not be allowed to visit the prohibited tourist spots themselves during the ban period. This measure aims to strike a balance between security concerns and honoring prior tourist arrangements.
The proactive step by the Chikkamagaluru authorities highlights the growing emphasis on crowd management and safety during major holiday seasons in India's popular hill stations. Similar restrictions have been implemented in other tourist-heavy districts in the past to prevent accidents, traffic gridlocks, and maintain overall public order.
