Darranga ICP, which will operate 24/7, will facilitate entry and exit of third-country nationals through the Bhutan-India border
Dechen Dolkar
International tourists can now finally enter and exit from the eastern border town of Samdrupjongkhar, following the official inauguration of the much-awaited Darranga Immigration Check Post (ICP) in Assam, India yesterday.
The inauguration was attended by Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Assam’s Governor, Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
Located in the Darranga ICP complex and managed by the Land Ports Authority of India, the new immigration facility is a major development in enhancing cross-border tourism and connectivity.
With this, Bhutan now has two land-based entry and exit points for tourists.
The Darranga ICP, which will operate 24/7, will facilitate entry and exit of third-country nationals through the Bhutan-India border. The entry and exit point is expected to boost tourism in the eastern regions of the country.
The border town of Samdrupjongkhar is a gateway to major towns of eastern Bhutan—Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, Mongar, Lhuentse, and Pemagatshel. These locations, although less explored, are renowned for their unique culture, natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
During the inauguration, the Governor of Assam, Lakshman Prasad Acharya, said that unique ties of cooperation and friendship between Bhutan and India focus on boosting connectivity, development of border infrastructure, and strengthening people-to-people ties.
He also said the Government of India is committed to further expanding mutually beneficial partnerships across diverse sectors.
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay said that the operationalisation of the ICP at Darranga would stimulate tourism and economic growth in eastern Bhutan. “This initiative will also help establish a tourism circuit between Bhutan and Assam,” Lyonchhen said.
Eastern Bhutan is home to some of the country’s most spiritually significant sites. Visitors can explore places like Chorten Kora in Trashiyangtse, a renowned pilgrimage site, and the 154-foot bronze statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Takila, Lhuentse.
These destinations offer an opportunity to immerse in Bhutan’s rich cultural traditions, set against some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.
The director of the Department of Tourism, Damcho Rinzin, called the opening of the Darranga ICP an important step forward for the tourism sector. “As we officially open the Samdrupongkhar entry and exit point to all tourists, we are excited to welcome travellers to explore the unique experiences this region offers,” he said.
He said that eastern Bhutan offers breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, exquisite textiles, traditional food, and warm hospitality. “We believe this new gateway will make travel to the east more accessible and provide visitors with a truly memorable experience,” he said.
He also highlighted that Bhutan is a year-round destination, with each season offering unique opportunities. “The addition of a new entry and exit point will give visitors more options to explore different parts of Bhutan throughout the year.”
During the inauguration, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay became the first individual to have his passport stamped at the new ICP. However, no tourists were entering or exiting the border on the day of the ceremony.
The opening of the Darranga ICP comes after some delays, with the post originally expected to open by the end of September.
Some tour operators had to adjust their itineraries at the last minute, rerouting tourists from Paro to Yonphula instead of through Samdrupjongkhar. “Many tour operators have incurred losses due to changes in the itinerary,” the operator said.
The inauguration was attended by Opposition Leader Dasho Pema Chewang, the Consul General of Bhutan in Guwahati, and other senior government officials. Senior ministers from the Central Government of India, the Ambassador of India to Bhutan, and officials from the State Government of Assam were also present.
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