The border gates at Samdrup, Jongkhar and Gelephu along the Assam frontier will reopen for tourists from September 23. These gates connect India to its neighbour, Bhutan.
This move comes into effect after a long gap of 2.5 years due to covid.
Both the governments, (The government of India and the Government of the kingdom of Royal Bhutan) have geared up for opening the borders as the cases of covid-19 have subsided in both countries.
Tashi Penjore, the Himalayan kingdom`s Director (law and order) of the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs said that the Government of Bhutan has officially announced the reopening of its border to India from September 23 onwards and he also mentioned that they are now ready to offer visitors a good tourist experience.
The minister also stated that they had issued only entry permits through Phuentsholing and Paro, but have now added three additional entry gates Samdrup Jongkhar and Gelephu for tourists to visit.
He further added that a Substantial Development Fund (SDF) will be charged from tourists, which will be spent for improving services and infrastructure, besides environmental conservation.
To ensure travellers enjoy seamless travel, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has also been chalked out. The Minister also informed that visitors who plan to halt the night and travel beyond the designated points will be charged INR 1200.
Also, do note that respective officials have urged tourists to bring their voter ID cards and other relevant documents while visiting the Himalayan country.