Recently, one of our members has faced problem with one of his group holding multiple entry e-Visa who entered through un-authorised check post. The group after their visit to India went to Bhutan and re-entered India through Gelephu Border and they got the permission to enter India at Deosiri Assam. Group got the entry and their passports were stamped, signed after checking e-Visa.
However, the group was de-boarded from the flight at Kolkata airport when it was noticed by immigration official at the counter that the passport was signed and stamped in Deosiri, Assam, which was not the authorised immigration check post. Due to all this episode, the group faced lot of problems and harassment, visits to FRRO office and also they had to spend 5 extra days in Kolkata. Besides a penalty of USD 400 per person was imposed for such violation i.e. Entry into India from non-notified place.
Members are therefore, advised to take suitable precaution and ensure that foreign tourists enter through the authorized immigrations check posts. They must check on Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India Website, whether the Immigration check post is mentioned in MHA list or not to avoid any problem later.
Please contact Eastbound for more information.
The Local authorities have decided to ban camping at Pangong lake completely. This will be applicable for campsites and self-camping both. Campsites owners have been instructed to not bring up any more constructions near the lake, either temporary or permanent. People planning to self camp as well will not be allowed to pitch their tents anymore. The picturesque Pangong Lake, which falls under Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary.
This step has been taken in order to prevent degradation of the lake by taking well planned, sustainable and scientific steps. After the recent boost in tourism in Ladakh, several camps, restaurants, huts have come up along the banks of Pangong. Most of these structures are illegal and have been set up without any permission. Too many tourists and too many campsites has resulted in an increase in all kinds effluents and contaminants; which poses a serious threat to the very existence of the lake; as well as the wildlife around.