Image Source: Times of India
If you're planning a scenic escape to Mussoorie this season, there's a new rule you must follow before packing your bags. Starting August 1, 2025, the Uttarakhand government has made online tourist registration mandatory for all visitors to Mussoorie. This move aims to curb the growing issues of overcrowding, traffic congestion, and strain on local infrastructure, which have intensified as tourist numbers nearly doubled between 2022 and 2024.
Key Highlights of the New Regulation
All tourists—domestic and international—must register online before entering Mussoorie.
A unique QR code will be issued upon registration, which must be presented at town entry points, hotel check-ins, and major tourist sites.
Accommodation providers (hotels, homestays, guesthouses) must also register their properties and log guest details during check-in.
The system is designed to provide real-time data on tourist footfall, aiding in traffic management and infrastructure planning.
Why the Rule Was Introduced
Surge in Tourist Footfall Mussoorie saw its visitor count jump from 11 lakh in 2022 to over 21 lakh in 2024. This exponential rise has overwhelmed the town’s roads, parking spaces, and public services.
National Green Tribunal Directive In May 2025, the NGT directed the Uttarakhand government to monitor tourist influx and submit regular data. The registration system is a direct response to this mandate.
Infrastructure Strain and Safety Concerns Traffic jams, especially from Gandhi Chowk to Mall Road, have become routine. In June, a tragic incident occurred when a tourist from Delhi died after being stuck in traffic and unable to reach medical care in time.
How to Register for Your Mussoorie Trip
Visit the official Uttarakhand Tourism portal.
Fill in details including:
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Full name
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Contact number or email
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Travel dates
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Vehicle number (if applicable)
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Accommodation details
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Domestic tourists receive an OTP via SMS; international visitors get it via email.
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Upon verification, a QR code is generated.
This QR code must be shown at:
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Entry checkpoints like Kimadi, Kempty Falls, and Kuthal Gate
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Hotel check-ins
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Major tourist attractions
Responsibilities for Accommodation Providers
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Register the property on the tourism portal with:
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Owner’s name and contact
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Type of accommodation
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Property name, number of rooms, and guest capacity
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Log guest check-in details in real time to help authorities monitor arrivals.
Mixed Reactions from Locals and Hoteliers
While many stakeholders support the initiative for its long-term benefits, some hoteliers have voiced concerns:
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Small lodges may struggle with the verification process during peak seasons.
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Last-minute travelers could face delays or entry issues.
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Enforcement in remote or narrow areas may be inconsistent.
Digvijay Singh Bisht, President of the Nainital Hotel Association, questioned how authorities would distinguish tourists from daily commuters, especially in towns with large local populations.
What This Means for Travelers
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Plan Ahead Register online before your trip to avoid delays at checkpoints or accommodation issues.
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Carry Your QR Code Keep a digital or printed copy of your QR code for smooth entry and check-in.
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Expect Stricter Monitoring Authorities may adjust rules based on feedback, but for now, compliance is essential.
Looking Ahead
The Uttarakhand government may expand this system to other hill stations facing similar challenges. The goal is to balance tourism with sustainability, ensuring that natural beauty and local infrastructure are preserved for future generations.
Source: Gulf News – August 3, 2025
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