During the long weekend, a significant concentration of visitors was observed on the popular Triund trek located in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh state. Photographs and videos appearing on social media showed thousands of tourists. In light of this, the forest department has decided to introduce new measures to control the number of visitors on the trek. Now, the Triund trek is permitted for no more than 1000 tourists per day.
According to the forest department, this restriction is based on the established carrying capacity of the Triund landscape. DFO Dharamshala Amit Sharma reported that approximately 1700 passes were issued during the long weekend. He noted that the number of tourists on the weekend was very high, so the established carrying capacity will now be strictly enforced.
Although footage showing crowds of 3000–4000 people appeared on social media, the forest department clarified that this entire mass of people was not at the summit of Triund. According to DFO Amit Sharma, the large concentration of tourists was observed at the initial checkpoint, where time was required for data registration and pass issuance, leading to an accumulation of many visitors at the checkpoint.
Due to the predicted large influx of tourists in the upcoming weekend, the forest department has decided to reinforce staffing at the checkpoints. Operators will only be issued 1000 passes per day. Tourist access to Triund will only be possible based on these passes; no one will be allowed higher without one. The forest department warned that in case of rule violations and attempts to climb without a ticket, the tourist faces a fine according to established regulations.
DFO Amit Sharma emphasized that this decision was made to ensure better conditions for tourists. Exceeding the established capacity makes it difficult to provide all necessary amenities for all visitors.
The forest department plans to implement a number of improvements to enhance tourist comfort on Triund. These measures include installing gazebos, providing water, and setting up dry toilets. Amit Sharma reported that the goal of providing water should be achieved by December 31st. One area of this work is reducing the need for tourists to carry plastic bottles up. The department stated that there are no plans to turn Triund into concrete or gray infrastructure; preserving the natural appearance of this place remains the priority.
In light of the growing flow of visitors, the forest department has also appealed to tourists and trekking operators to exercise caution when booking in advance. DFO Amit Sharma advised operators and tourists to obtain information from the forest department before making reservations. He clearly stated that under no circumstances will more than 1000 people be allowed to visit Triund in one day. The goal of this system is not only to reduce the number of tourists but also to ensure visitor amenities in accordance with the established capacity, as well as preserving the natural appearance.
For tourists visiting Triund, a fee of 100 rupees is set for a day hike. Camping incurs a fee of 275 rupees. Amit Sharma explained that these fees are not intended to pay for any special services, but are payment for the permit for hiking or camping. The forest department will begin strengthening control at the checkpoints upon the introduction of the daily limit of 1000 people. Personnel presence will be ensured for monitoring order during the upcoming weekend, and measures will be taken against those who attempt to ascend without a pass.