A foreign tourist visiting Kangra in Himachal Pradesh has caught the attention of many online users, not for his sightseeing or trekking skills, but for picking up litter left behind by other visitors.
A video of the tourist calmly collecting plastic wrappers and waste near a scenic waterfall and throwing them in a dustbin has gone viral on social media. Meanwhile, other people nearby can be seen walking past the trash, ignoring the mess completely.
The video, which was posted on July 24, 2024, has crossed over 5 million views on social media platform X. The caption of the post pointed to the sad contrast between the tourist’s concern for nature and the negligence shown by local tourists. The footage sparked a fresh round of discussion online about the poor waste management in popular tourist spots across Himachal Pradesh.
Shameful a foreign tourist is more concerned about nature’s beauty while local tourists keep shamelessly littering such stunning places. No govt or administration is to be blamed — it’s the people who need to change if we ever want a clean country. Video from Kangra, Himachal. pic.twitter.com/AbZfcG28G8
— Nikhil saini (@iNikhilsaini) July 24, 2025
Kangra, known for its green valleys and peaceful views, is one of the most visited places in the state. However, in recent years, the increasing number of tourists has also brought an increase in garbage at waterfalls, forest trails, and viewpoints.
Locals and tourists alike have been criticised for littering despite the presence of dustbins and regular warnings. The video from Kangra has added to growing calls for stricter action and better awareness to protect these natural spaces.
Kasol garbage dump triggers public outrage
The concerns over garbage in Himachal Pradesh are not limited to Kangra. A similar issue surfaced in Kasol, another popular hill destination, where videos shared in May 2025 showed piles of plastic waste and bottles dumped in a forest area.
The footage revealed a massive dump in what was once a clean and green part of Kasol. As the camera moved across the trash-covered land, a man in the video could be heard expressing shock and disappointment, calling the condition “disgusting” and urging for immediate clean-up.
The videos from Kasol also went viral, sparking anger and concern on social media. Many users blamed not just the tourists, but also the local authorities for allowing such waste to accumulate in forest areas.
Congress model!
— BJP KERALAM (@BJP4Keralam) May 28, 2025
They first bankrupted a flourishing state, Himachal. Now they’re destroying its tourism – places like Kasol are turning into garbage dump.
This isn’t a one-off. Every state they touch ends up in crisis only. Kerala, don’t ignore the warning signs. Our economy is… pic.twitter.com/8ntq3dwhkM
Some questioned how such dumping was possible when visitors are charged green tax in the name of environmental conservation. Others pointed out that if no action is taken, the garbage will eventually flow into the rivers during the monsoon, polluting water sources and harming wildlife.
The issue attracted criticism directed towards both the public and the government. Several users said that the public lacks basic civic sense, and this behaviour is ruining Himachal’s natural beauty. Others highlighted the role of the administration, saying officials are not doing enough to enforce rules or maintain cleanliness.
Common problem, urgent need for change
Both incidents – one showing a tourist picking up garbage in Kangra, the other showing open dumping of waste in Kasol – highlight a larger problem. While Himachal Pradesh continues to attract tens of thousands of tourists every year, the challenge of keeping these destinations clean remains a serious issue.
In many places, waste management systems are either missing or not working properly. Public behaviour and lack of awareness have also added to the problem.
Even though tourists are charged environmental fees at entry points, there is growing concern about how these funds are being used. Complaints about overflowing bins, lack of regular cleaning, and unchecked dumping near rivers and forests are becoming more common.
The viral videos from Kangra and Kasol serve as a reminder that protecting the natural beauty of the Himalayas requires joint effort. Cleanliness drives, stronger rules, better infrastructure, and public awareness are needed to prevent these popular destinations from turning into garbage sites.
