Tourists flock sunrise points at Nandi Hills, Hampi& beaches in large numbers

CHIKKABALLAPUR/BALLARI: A large number of tourists and locals flocked Nandi Hills on the outskirts of Bengaluru early on Sunday morning, the first day of the New Year, to catch a glimpse of the rising sun.

Thousands of tourists came on bikes and in cars to watch the beautiful sight. Tourists gathered at Nandi Hills checkpost right from 1 am and stood in a long queue at the ticket counter after they were allowed past the checkpost around 6 am.

The district administration was considering banning four-wheelers to reduce traffic.  The parking slots were already full with two-wheelers and bikes. It is expected that more than 10,000 people will visit Nandi Hills by the end of the day.

A tourist said, “It is a beautiful sunrise view point and I am coming here for the first time. It is worth watching. The family left home at 12 am to reach Nandi Hills on time. I’m glad I caught the view on New Year’s.”

Tourist said, it was glad to visit the place as we are coming for the first time.

Another tourist, Ravi, came to the hills with his family. “We came here Saturday night to watch the sunrise. We wished to begin the new year with the blessings of the Sun god.There is a huge crowd gathered over here, coming for  the first time. I am feeling very happy, and this day will be memorable. Let the new year bring happiness and prosperity into everyone’s life. I wish more people would come here,” he wished.

A tourist Ravi said it is a memorable day and glad to be visiting here.

Tourists enjoyed the moments by taking photos of the sunrise and selfies on the first day of the New Year.

THe parking slots are filled with tourists vehicles.

Elsewhere, tourists watched the first sunrise of 2023 from atop Matanga Hills at Hampi in Hosapete taluk, Vijayanagara district.

People are also thronging Karwar, Gokarna, Murudeshwar and other beaches in the coastal districts along with their families, companions, friends, and relatives.