International visitors travelling to Gelephu can now enter Bhutan directly through Hatisar in Assam, following India’s decision to establish a temporary immigration post at the Gelephu border.
The immigration post at Dadgari, Hatisar, became operational on 24th October and will remain open until 7th November.
Designated by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, the facility allows eligible Bhutanese and third-country nationals with valid travel documents to enter through the Gelephu crossing. It also accepts e-visas during this period.
Previously, international visitors arriving through Guwahati often had to enter Bhutan through other entry points before travelling to Gelephu. The new arrangement provides a more direct route, reducing the need for lengthy detours.
Dawa Penjor, General Secretary of BIFA, said the temporary immigration facility would make travel to Gelephu easier and more convenient for international visitors.
“This temporary immigration facility will benefit us greatly. Until now, there has been no immigration check post at this border, so international visitors travelling to Gelephu had to enter Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar or Phuentsholing and then travel to Gelephu. With this new facility, for instance, visitors arriving at Guwahati International Airport can travel directly to Gelephu, making the journey much easier and more convenient,” he said.
The facility has dedicated arrival and departure sections, seating areas and toilets to make the crossing more convenient for travellers. The Indian government and the Assam state government have also deployed additional personnel to support security arrangements during the busy period.
The temporary immigration post has been established to support the 108 Stupas gathering on 1st November. However, it could also offer a more direct gateway for international visitors in the future, highlighting the importance of cross-border connectivity as Gelephu Mindfulness City takes shape.
Passang Dorji
