In what is described as a landmark initiative for promoting tourism in eastern Bhutan, a new gateway for international tourists entering and exiting India and Bhutan opens at Darranga in Assam today. Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya inaugurated the Immigration Check Post (ICP) in the presence of Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
The Immigration Check Post in Assam is located just 700 metres from the Samdrup Jongkhar border gate. This is now another entry and exit point for international tourists and Indian citizens visiting Bhutan.
At the inauguration, Assam Governor Laskman Prasad Acharya said such initiatives are pivotal in fostering deeper ties between the two nations. Similarly, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay expressed optimism about the new opportunities the facility would bring for both nations.
“Assam government and Bhutanese government, Assam people and Bhutanese people can do much more together to market our respective destinations together to the people all over the world. Let’s do it together. This is an important milestone for Bharat to Bhutan and Bhutan to Bharat.”
And people are excited. So far, international tourists visiting Bhutan by land can enter and exit the country only through Phuentsholing.
“Tourists from India and other countries can also enter Samdrup Jongkhar and visit eastern Bhutan, the central part of Bhutan, and yes, of course, the western part of Bhutan. So now there is a different option from Samdrup Jongkhar, so it is great news for the tourism industry of Bhutan, and it will be of huge benefit, which we have been waiting for a long time,” said Damcho Rinzin, director of the Department of Tourism.
“Samdrup Jongkhar border gate is open for international tourists. Here in Pema Gatshel, a group has been formed to operate a Lotus Valley Eco-Campsite, so we hope tourists will visit. We offer trekking services, lunch and hot baths,” said Tashi Dendup, a member at Louts Valley Eco-Campsite, Pema Gatshel.
As both nations look to harness the potential of this development, the facility could become a key gateway, benefiting both countries for years to come.
Kinley Wangchuk. Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Kipchu
