The mold-covered hotel room, the sticky pillows…things I never thought I would experience in Nainital
Times of India
by PRECIOUS RONGMEIFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A recent experience of two travelers visiting Nainital during the Gandhi Jayanti weekend turned into a nightmare after their booked hotel was changed due to "technical issues." They were directed to a poorly maintained establishment with moldy rooms, sticky pillows, and an unhygienic environment. This incident highlights the risks of relying on online travel platforms that may not verify hotels properly. The travelers faced confusion, delays, and a lack of proper accommodations during peak season, forcing them to seek alternative arrangements.
Upon arriving in Nainital, the duo followed incorrect directions from the hotel representative, leading them through a forested route to reach their destination. When they finally arrived at the hotel, it was in a dilapidated condition, with rooms not ready and poor facilities. The situation worsened as they waited over an hour for their room, only to find it in an unsatisfactory state. This left them questioning the reliability of online travel platforms and hotel chains that prioritize bookings over quality.
This story underscores the importance of thorough research and verification when planning trips, especially during peak seasons. It serves as a cautionary tale for travelers relying on online booking systems, emphasizing the need for clearer communication between platforms and hotels to avoid such disappointments. The incident also raises questions about the responsibility of travel agencies in ensuring guests receive what they book and the necessity for better oversight of listed accommodations.
For readers interested in travel and seeking reliable experiences, this article highlights the importance of due diligence when choosing hotels and online booking services. It also calls attention to the need for improved verification processes to protect travelers from such disheartening situations.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/19/2026