In view of law and order concerns and public safety risks, the Chikkaballapura District Administration has imposed a complete ban on the entry of tourists and vehicles to Nandi Hills on February 14, coinciding with Valentine’s Day.
The restriction will remain in force from 6 am to 6 pm, effectively sealing the popular tourist destination for the entire day. The order was issued by Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Prabhu under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarika Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, following a request from the district police.
Officials said Nandi Hills, located near Bengaluru, witnesses a massive rush during weekends and special occasions, often leading to overcrowding and traffic chaos. According to the administration, the hill station typically receives around 16,000 to 18,000 visitors and nearly 5,000 vehicles on such days.
With Valentine’s Day falling on a Saturday this year, authorities anticipate an even higher turnout of 15,000 to 20,000 visitors, which could result in severe traffic congestion. The ghat road leading to Nandi Hills is narrow and winding, and officials said handling such a heavy volume of vehicles would be extremely difficult.
Apart from traffic issues, the district administration expressed concern over the possibility of drunken behaviour, indecent acts, public nuisance, and unsafe activities in restricted and dangerous zones at the hilltop. Officials warned that managing crowds on steep terrain could increase the risk of accidents and create serious law and order challenges.
Authorities said the move was necessary to ensure the safety of visitors and prevent untoward incidents.
Police have been instructed to strictly enforce the prohibitory order and take legal action against anyone violating the restrictions. Security personnel will be deployed at key entry points to prevent tourist movement towards the hill.
Nandi Hills remains one of the most popular tourist and sunrise destinations in Karnataka, attracting thousands of visitors from Bengaluru and nearby areas.
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