Illegal Touts, Overcharging & Drug Links Plague Kufri Tourism Corridor; Hotel Association Writes to CM Sukhu
Shimla/ Kufri
2February 2026
The Kufri Hotels & Allied Activities Society has written to Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, raising serious concerns over alleged tourist exploitation and illegal activities in the Kufri–New Kufri tourist belt. The association has sought immediate government intervention to restore transparency, regulation and safety in the region’s tourism ecosystem.
In its detailed representation, the Society alleged that unregistered touts and commission agents have taken control of several stretches along National Highway-5 between Charabara and Fagu. According to the complaint, private and unauthorised parking zones are being operated without approval from the Tourism Department or the district administration.
The association further claimed that tourists are being misled into purchasing overpriced “tour packages,” often paying eight to ten times the standard cost of services. It alleged that a commission-based network involving taxi drivers, tempo travellers and bus operators is diverting unsuspecting visitors to unregistered service providers.
In a serious allegation, the Society stated that narcotics such as charas and opium are reportedly being used as incentives for drivers to channel tourists toward illegal operators, adding a criminal dimension to activities being conducted under the guise of tourism. The association warned that such practices are tarnishing the image of Shimla and Kufri as safe and family-friendly destinations.
Legitimate stakeholders — including registered taxi operators, hotel owners, guides, small shopkeepers, café owners and adventure activity providers — have reportedly suffered significant business losses despite complying with statutory norms, permits and tax regulations.
Key Demands Submitted to the Government
Establishment of Tourist Information Centres in Kufri and New Kufri.
Installation of public announcement systems and deployment of mobile information vans for tourist guidance.
Mandatory registration of all tourism service providers, including horse riding, jeep rides, adventure activities and package sellers.
Fixation of official rates for tourism activities and transport services.
Removal of illegal roadside parking and development of regulated parking zones through transparent government auction.
Strict action against unregistered touts, illegal commission agents and drug peddlers operating under the cover of tourism.
The Society has urged the Chief Minister to direct the Tourism Department, District Administration, Police and HPPWD to initiate coordinated enforcement and regulatory action at the earliest.
Warning of long-term consequences, the association stated that continued inaction could erode tourist confidence, reduce footfall, and cause lasting reputational damage to Himachal Pradesh’s tourism brand.
