Mobile Networks & Tourist SIM Cards

In Bhutan, there are two major mobile network operators that provide services for both residents and tourists:

1. Bhutan Telecom (B-Mobile)

• Bhutan Telecom is the largest and most popular mobile network provider in the country, offering extensive coverage, particularly in urban areas and along major roads. It is also the preferred network for tourists due to its wide reach, including many remote areas.
• Mobile Network Services: Bhutan Telecom provides 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE services in most regions of the country. The 4G network is available in larger cities like Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and some rural areas.
• Prepaid Tourist SIM Cards: Tourists can easily obtain a prepaid SIM card from Bhutan Telecom at the airport (Paro International Airport), Bhutan Telecom outlets, or designated shops in cities.
  • Cost: A tourist SIM card typically costs around 200–500 Ngultrum (BTN) (USD 2.50–6).
  • Packages: Prepaid SIM cards usually come with preloaded data and talk time. Tourists can purchase data plans starting from 100 BTN (USD 1.20) for basic usage.
  • Data Plans: Data packages are available, ranging from small daily packs to larger weekly or monthly packages, depending on the visitor’s needs.
  • Recharge: SIM cards can be recharged at retail shops or online using recharge vouchers or mobile payment platforms.

2. TashiCell

• TashiCell is Bhutan’s second-largest mobile operator. It also offers good coverage in major towns and along main highways, but it might be less reliable in remote areas compared to Bhutan Telecom.
• Mobile Network Services: TashiCell offers 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE services, with decent coverage in urban centers like Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Phuentsholing, and other key tourist areas.
• Prepaid Tourist SIM Cards: TashiCell also offers prepaid tourist SIM cards, which can be purchased at their outlets or at authorized stores across the country.
  • Cost: The SIM cards are usually available for around 300–400 BTN (USD 3.50–5).
  • Packages: TashiCell offers a range of data plans and calling packages, catering to the needs of tourists.
  • Recharge: SIM cards can be easily recharged through scratch cards or online.

3. How to Get a Tourist SIM Card

• Where to Buy: Tourist SIM cards are available at Paro International Airport, mobile provider shops in Thimphu and other cities, and major towns across Bhutan. Upon arrival at the airport, tourists can conveniently purchase SIM cards at kiosks.
• Documents Required: To purchase a SIM card, tourists will need to present their passport and visa for verification. Registration is mandatory for all SIM cards, including tourist SIMs.
• Activation: SIM cards are typically activated immediately after purchase, and the mobile number becomes active within a few minutes.

4. Tourist SIM Card Features

• Local and International Calls: Tourist SIM cards offer affordable rates for both local calls and international calls. Bhutan has agreements with many countries for roaming services, but tourists often find it more affordable to use a local SIM for making calls.
• Data Services: Both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell offer various data plans suited for tourists. These plans range from small daily packs (e.g., 100 MB) to larger plans for heavy data usage (e.g., 5 GB or more).
• Internet Access: Most tourist SIM cards come with 4G LTE access in major cities and towns, which provides fast internet for browsing, social media, and navigation apps.

5. Roaming Services

• Tourists can also use their international roaming services if their mobile network providers have agreements with Bhutan Telecom or TashiCell. However, roaming charges can be quite high, and purchasing a local SIM card is usually a more cost-effective option.

6. Mobile Network Coverage

• Urban Areas: Both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell provide excellent coverage in urban centers such as Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, Phuentsholing, and other main towns.
• Rural and Remote Areas: Coverage can be patchy in rural or remote areas, particularly in mountainous regions or during treks. Bhutan Telecom typically has better coverage in remote areas than TashiCell.
• High-Altitude Treks: If you’re trekking to more remote or high-altitude locations (such as the Druk Path Trek or Jomolhari Trek), mobile network coverage may be limited or nonexistent. Satellite phones or pre-arranged communication options may be needed for these areas.

7. Wi-Fi Availability

• Hotels and Cafés: Many hotels, guesthouses, and cafés in tourist areas provide free Wi-Fi for guests. However, the quality and speed of the connection can vary, especially in more remote regions.
• Public Wi-Fi: Some public locations in Thimphu and Paro may offer Wi-Fi, though it’s less common outside major cities.
• SIM Card Data: For continuous connectivity, especially during travel, a tourist SIM card with a data plan is the best option.

8. International Calling and Data Usage

• Calling Home: For international calls, both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell offer competitive rates. However, many tourists prefer using VoIP services like WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber over Wi-Fi or mobile data for international communication.
• Data Usage: If you need to use data while traveling, especially for navigation, maps, or staying connected via social media, choosing a prepaid SIM card with a suitable data plan is recommended. Keep in mind that data speeds might be slower in rural areas compared to urban centers.

Conclusion

For tourists visiting Bhutan, it is easy to stay connected using prepaid tourist SIM cards from either Bhutan Telecom or TashiCell. These SIM cards offer affordable packages for both local and international calls, as well as fast 4G data services in major cities and towns. For remote areas, coverage might be limited, so it’s best to plan ahead if you’re traveling to the countryside or trekking. Getting a tourist SIM card upon arrival is simple and ensures seamless communication during your stay in Bhutan.