Samdrup Jongkhar Border Opens

International tourists can now access Bhutan through the eastern border town of Samdrupjongkhar following the formal opening of the Darranga Immigration Check Post (ICP) in Assam, India, which took place yesterday. The event was marked by the presence of Bhutan’s Prime Minister, Tshering Tobgay, and Assam’s Governor, Lakshman Prasad Acharya. Operated by the Land Ports Authority of India, the Darranga ICP is located within its namesake complex and represents a significant step forward in promoting cross-border tourism and connectivity. This development makes it the second land-based entry and exit point for tourists visiting Bhutan.

The Darranga ICP will open from 6am to 6pm, 7 days a week with immediate effect to facilitate the movement of third-country nationals between Bhutan and India. It is anticipated to drive tourism growth in eastern Bhutan, particularly in Samdrupjongkhar, which serves as a gateway to key towns in the region, including Trashigang, Trashiyangtse, Mongar, Lhuentse, and Pemagatshel. Although these areas are less frequented by tourists, they are celebrated for their stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and unique traditions.

At the inauguration, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya highlighted the enduring friendship and cooperation between Bhutan and India, emphasizing efforts to improve connectivity, border infrastructure, and people-to-people relations. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening partnerships across various sectors. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay noted that the operationalization of the Darranga ICP would boost tourism and foster economic development in eastern Bhutan. He also expressed hope that it would pave the way for a tourism circuit connecting Bhutan and Assam.

Eastern Bhutan is home to spiritually significant sites such as Chorten Kora in Trashiyangtse, a popular pilgrimage site, and the 154-foot bronze statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Takila, Lhuentse. These destinations offer visitors the chance to experience Bhutan’s cultural richness amid breathtaking landscapes.

Damcho Rinzin, the Director of Bhutan’s Department of Tourism, described the opening of the Darranga ICP as a major milestone for the tourism sector. He expressed enthusiasm for welcoming visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty, cultural traditions, exquisite textiles, and warm hospitality. Rinzin emphasized Bhutan’s appeal as a year-round travel destination, noting that the new entry point would allow tourists to explore different parts of the country across all seasons.

During the inauguration, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay became the first person to have his passport stamped at the new facility. However, no tourists crossed the border on the day of the ceremony. The Darranga ICP’s opening faced some delays, as it was initially slated to begin operations by the end of September. These delays caused tour operators to make last-minute itinerary changes, redirecting tourists from Paro to Yonphula instead of through Samdrupjongkhar. This disruption reportedly resulted in financial losses for several operators.