The Bhutan Gate is the main land border crossing between India and Bhutan, separating the Bhutanese town of Phuntsholing from the Indian market town of Jaigaon. The gate itself is a striking structure — an ornate arch in traditional Bhutanese style, painted in deep reds and whites with a golden roof, flanked by painted panels depicting religious and royal imagery.
For most visitors arriving overland from India, the gate is the first thing you see of Bhutan and the last thing you see leaving it. It marks the abrupt transition from the hectic Indian bazaar of Jaigaon to the noticeably quieter and cleaner streets of Phuntsholing.
Indian citizens cross freely for day visits and shopping; all others must have a valid Bhutanese visa and tourist permit. The immigration office is a short walk from the gate on the Bhutanese side.