A confusion that makes one cringe
So this is of course one example among many, but this one is getting talked about a lot these days. If you rely on Google Maps to visit the Kollur Mookambika temple, you risk ending up… in Nandalike, a remote village 100 kilometers away. All this because the app confuses the big temple of Kollur with a small shrine of the same name in Nandalike. Result ? Hordes of lost tourists, exasperated locals, and still no correction in sight.
Disoriented tourists, exasperated locals
For several months, hundreds of vehicles
flock to this village, according to residents. Imagine their daily lives turned upside down by visitors who arrive, thinking they have arrived at the famous temple. It's not for lack of having reported the problem to Google, but nothing changes. Travelers have to juggle between the app and the signs to avoid getting further lost, especially when driving at night. A real hassle.
This type of error is not new. In December 2024, a driver ended up in a river because Google Maps guided him over an unfinished bridge. Last year, dozens of motorists were sent into the desert instead of a main road. These incidents remind us of one thing: even with the best app, you have to maintain a little common sense. But I'm sure that even at home you have examples of crappy routes offered by Google Maps.
How to avoid ending up in Nandalike?
Before leaving, a quick look at the exact address on the internet, it costs nothing. And if you use Google Maps, check the route before hitting the road. Adding details such as village or region in the search can also help. And above all, if you are abroad, think about offline maps, and even paper ones. It's always practical, especially in areas where the network is scarce.
And the alternatives?
Some recommend Waze for a little more accuracy, but without an offline mode, it's not ideal for remote areas. As for Apple Maps, let's just say that outside the United States, it's still pretty average. Google Maps remains essential, but clearly not infallible. So, the next time you go on a road trip, be careful. Because an app that takes you to a lost village instead of a famous temple is nice once, but not twice.
