New Immigration Post Opens in Samdrupjongkhar
International tourists can now enter and exit through the eastern border town of Samdrupjongkhar, following the official inauguration of the highly anticipated Darranga Immigration Check Post (ICP) in Assam, India on the 7th November 2024.
(Source: Kuensel)
The ceremony was attended by Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Tshering Tobgay and Assam’s Governor, Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
Located within the Darranga ICP complex and managed by India’s Land Ports Authority, this new immigration facility is a significant step in strengthening cross-border tourism and connectivity.
With this addition, Bhutan now offers two land-based entry and exit points for tourists.
Operating 24/7, the Darranga ICP will facilitate the entry and exit of third-country nationals across the Bhutan-India border, with the goal of boosting tourism in Bhutan’s eastern regions.
Samdrupjongkhar serves as a gateway to key towns in eastern Bhutan, such as Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, Mongar, Lhuentse, and Pemagatshel. While these areas are less frequented, they are celebrated for their unique culture, stunning natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
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During the inauguration, Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya highlighted the enduring ties of cooperation and friendship between Bhutan and India, emphasizing a shared commitment to improving connectivity, developing border infrastructure, and strengthening people-to-people connections.
He also noted India’s dedication to expanding mutually beneficial partnerships across various sectors.
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay remarked that the operationalization of the ICP at Darranga will drive tourism and economic growth in eastern Bhutan, adding, “This initiative will also help establish a tourism circuit between Bhutan and Assam.”
Eastern Bhutan is home to some of the country’s most spiritually significant sites, including Chorten Kora in Trashiyangtse, a renowned pilgrimage site, and the 154-foot bronze statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Takila, Lhuentse. These destinations provide visitors with an immersive experience in Bhutan’s rich cultural traditions, set against breathtaking landscapes.
Damcho Rinzin, Director of the Department of Tourism, described the opening of the Darranga ICP as a major advancement for Bhutan’s tourism sector. “As we open the Samdrupjongkhar entry and exit point to tourists, we are thrilled to invite travelers to explore the unique experiences this region has to offer,” he said.
Rinzin highlighted eastern Bhutan’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, exquisite textiles, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality, expressing confidence that the new gateway will make travel to the east more accessible and provide visitors with a truly memorable experience.
He also emphasized Bhutan as a year-round destination, with each season offering unique experiences. “This new entry and exit point will give travelers more options to explore different parts of Bhutan throughout the year,” he added.
At the inauguration, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay became the first to have his passport stamped at the new ICP, though no tourists crossed the border on the day of the ceremony.
The ICP’s opening followed some delays, as it was initially slated to open by the end of September. Some tour operators had to make last-minute itinerary adjustments, redirecting tourists from Paro to Yonphula rather than through Samdrupjongkhar, resulting in financial losses for some.
The inauguration was attended by Opposition Leader Dasho Pema Chewang, Bhutan’s Consul General in Guwahati, and other senior government officials. Also present were senior ministers from India’s Central Government, the Indian Ambassador to Bhutan, and officials from Assam’s state government.
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