Adi Kailash in Pithoragarh has reported its first major traffic jam, with vehicles forming long queues at an altitude of 14,500 feet and pilgrims facing hours of delay.
The high-Himalayan site has seen a sharp increase in visitors since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit brought it wider global recognition. Tourism department figures show that 10,079 travellers visited Adi Kailash in 2023, followed by 29,423 in 2024 and 31,558 in 2025. So far, 61,950 inner line permits have been issued.
Snow and rising vehicle pressure
Recent heavy snowfall has added to the congestion. The area received 3 to 4 feet of snow, which the Border Roads Organisation removed with a JCB to restore traffic movement. However, snow piled along the road has narrowed the carriageway, making vehicle movement more difficult.
The road to Adi Kailash also provides access towards the China border. Improved surfacing by the BRO has made the route easier to travel, encouraging more pilgrims and tourists to arrive by vehicle. The resulting increase in traffic has created pressure in the high-altitude area.
Several dangerous stretches, including Ailagarh, Kulagarh, S Band and Malghat, continue to challenge travellers along the route. The emerging congestion has also prompted concern for the authorities about managing traffic at the pilgrdestination.
