Bhutan Entry from Samdrupjongkhar
Foreigners can enter and exit Bhutan from Samdrupjongkhar starting 1st November 2024. Entering Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar provides a unique and lesser-known gateway into the country. Located on Bhutan’s southeastern border with India, Samdrup Jongkhar connects to the Indian state of Assam, making it convenient for travellers from India to access Bhutan by road.
Here’s what you need to know about entering Bhutan through this route:
Key Points for Entry through Samdrup Jongkhar update on 1st November 2024
Border Formalities:
- Indian Citizens: Indian nationals can enter Bhutan visa-free but need to obtain an entry permit, which is issued at the border. A valid passport or voter ID is required.
- Other Nationals: International tourists require a visa to enter Bhutan, which must be arranged in advance through a Bhutanese tour operator. The visa will be pre-arranged and issued upon arrival. With the recent opening of the Indian Immigration office, Foreign nationals can enter and Exit from Daranga to Bhutan without hassle. On 1st November 2024, the Government of New Delhi appointed the Chief Immigration Officer, Bureau of Immigration as the Civil Authority for the said order for the Daranga Land Immigration Check post located in Tamulpur District of Assam state, with immediate effect. This office remained stagnant for 5 years and now it has come to an end making the flow of tourists easy from eastern Bhutan to Assam and vice versa.
Getting There:
- The nearest Indian city to Samdrup Jongkhar is Guwahati, about 3 hours away by car. Guwahati has an international airport with flights connecting major Indian cities, making it a convenient entry point.
- Travelers can reach Samdrup Jongkhar by taxi or private vehicle from Guwahati. Buses are also available. Check Bhutan Tour Packages from Guwahati.
Indian Immigration Contact Details at Daranga Checkpost
Contact:
1. Mr. Milan Saikia, Darranga Immigration
Mob: +919394688647
2. Mr. Dhiraj (Chief of Immigration), Darranga Immigration
Mob: +91 9987823478
Opening Time 24/7
Advantages of Entering through Samdrup Jongkhar:
- Scenic Route: The journey from Samdrup Jongkhar through eastern Bhutan to the central regions is incredibly scenic, passing through lush forests, traditional villages, and less-travelled regions like Trashigang and Mongar.
- Unique Cultural Experience: Eastern Bhutan has its own distinct cultural practices, dialects, and festivals. Travelling through this route offers a unique perspective on Bhutan’s diverse regional heritage.
- Extended Travel Options: From Samdrup Jongkhar, visitors can explore eastern Bhutan before heading to popular destinations like Bumthang, Thimphu, and Paro.
Permits and Travel Restrictions:
- Special Permits for Restricted Areas: Traveling beyond certain points in Bhutan may require additional permits, especially for international travellers. These are typically managed by Bhutanese tour operators.
Best Time to Enter Bhutan:
- The best times to enter Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the landscape is lush.
Entering Bhutan through Samdrup Jongkhar is ideal for travellers seeking a more immersive journey through Bhutan’s lesser-known eastern regions before arriving in the country’s central and western cultural hubs.
Bhutan Tour Packages from India
- Bhutan Tour Packages from Siliguri
- Bhutan Tour Packages from Kolkatta
- 15 Days Amazing Bhutan Tour
- Places to Visit in Bhutan
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can enter Bhutan via Samdrup Jongkhar?
Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals are permitted to enter Bhutan from Samdrup Jongkhar without a visa but need a valid entry permit. Other foreign nationals require a visa and can enter Bhutan from Samdrupjongkhar.
What documents are required for Indian citizens?
Indian citizens need a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity) or an Indian Voter ID card and recent passport size photo for entry. For children under 18, a birth certificate is accepted as well.
What are the entry permit application steps at Samdrup Jongkhar?
Upon arrival, go to the Immigration Office at Samdrup Jongkhar and fill out the required form. Submit your passport or Voter ID card and passport-sized photographs. Once verified, you’ll be issued an entry permit.
Can I extend my stay in Bhutan if I enter through Samdrup Jongkhar?
Yes, you can apply for a permit extension in Thimphu or other designated immigration offices within Bhutan if you wish to stay longer than initially allowed.
Is there a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for Indian nationals?
Yes, as of the recent updates, Indian nationals are required to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of INR 1,200 per person per night. This can be paid at the border or arranged through tour operators in advance.
Can I exit Bhutan from a different border or by air?
Yes, you can exit Bhutan from another border like Phuentsholing or by air from Paro International Airport, provided your entry permit or visa conditions allow for it.
