Kainchi Dham sees massive tourist rush after Hanuman Ansh release, traffic jams on Uttarakhand hills

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Nainital: Kainchi Dham in Uttarakhand witnessed a massive surge in devotees and tourists over the long weekend, resulting in hours-long traffic jams on roads around Bhimtal, Bhowali and Kainchi.

The popular shrine associated with Neem Karoli Baba normally receives around 25,000 visitors a day, but more than 35,000 people visited daily during the recent long weekend.

The rush comes following the growing popularity of “Hanuman Ansh,” a film based on the life and teachings of Neem Karoli Baba.

The number of visitors to Kainchi Dham has already risen sharply, with around 24.34 lakh people visiting in the first six months of 2026, compared with about eight lakh during the whole of the previous year.

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The heavy influx caused vehicles to move slowly for kilometres, while some pilgrims reportedly abandoned their vehicles and walked to the shrine.

The Nainital administration is now likely putting efforts towards opening an alternative bypass to divert the traffic and also crowd control measures with temple authorities and police coordination.

The congestion has affected the local residents of the area, they have urged for a permanent solution of as the popularity of the Kainchi Dham is increasing. It is putting pressure on the region’s roads and infrastructure.

Also Read: ‘Hanuman Ansh’ set for global release after strong run in India

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