January 2026 — After a fresh spell of snowfall in northern India, tourist hotspots like Manali saw a sudden rush of visitors looking for short winter getaways. While many enjoyed the snow and scenic views, some trips turned stressful due to blocked roads and transport issues. One such incident has now gone viral on social media.
A video showing a heated argument between a female tourist and a local cab driver in Manali, Himachal Pradesh, has sparked widespread debate online. The dispute reportedly began over money and a stalled journey.
What Happened in the Viral Video?
In the clip, the cab driver is first heard speaking calmly and saying the woman was like his own “child.” The remark quickly annoyed the tourist, who asked him to stay quiet.
As the argument escalated, the woman repeatedly told the driver to stop misbehaving and accused him of taking advantage of the situation. Bystanders can be seen trying to step in and calm both sides.
Dispute Over Payment and Refund
According to the video, the driver demanded Rs 3,000 for the trip, saying he was a poor man and that his car had gotten stuck due to snow.
The tourist, however, refused to pay and demanded a refund of Rs 11,000, claiming the trip was incomplete. The disagreement soon turned verbal, with the woman making threats and accusing the driver of thinking they had no local support.
Heated Words Caught on Camera
Towards the end of the clip, the woman is heard shouting at the driver to “shut his mouth,” while the driver turns to people around and asks what his fault was. Someone nearby suggests contacting the booking agent or point of contact to resolve the issue.
The exact details behind the payment arrangement remain unclear from the video alone.
Internet Reacts, Opinions Split
Since being shared on X (formerly Twitter), the video has crossed 1 lakh views and triggered strong reactions.
Some users defended the cab driver, praising his patience and calm behaviour. Others criticised the tourist for using threatening language. A few viewers, however, pointed out that the video lacks full context and warned against rushing to judgment based on a short clip.
The incident has once again highlighted how travel disputes, especially during peak tourist seasons and harsh weather, can quickly spiral — and how viral videos often show only part of the story.
With snowfall attracting crowds to hill stations, locals and tourists alike are facing pressure from weather-related disruptions. Many online users stressed the need for better communication, clear pricing, and official complaint channels to avoid such confrontations.
