Connectivity in Bhutan: Limited WiFi availability, but local SIM cards are a good option for staying connected.

Connectivity in Bhutan: A Comprehensive Guide to Internet Access and Local SIM Cards

Bhutan, a small landlocked country nestled in the Himalayas, is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique approach to measuring national progress through Gross National Happiness. However, when it comes to connectivity, Bhutan has been slow to catch up with the rest of the world. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the internet situation in Bhutan, the availability of WiFi, and whether it is worth getting a local SIM card.

Internet Situation in Bhutan

Bhutan’s internet infrastructure is still in its early stages of development. The country’s first internet connection was established in 1999, and since then, the government has been working to expand access to the internet. However, due to the country’s rugged terrain and remote location, providing internet access to all parts of the country has been a challenge.

As of 2021, Bhutan has an internet penetration rate of around 40%, which means that only a little over a third of the population has access to the internet. The majority of internet users in Bhutan are concentrated in urban areas, with limited access in rural areas.

The internet in Bhutan is primarily provided by two service providers, Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell. Both companies offer 3G and 4G mobile data services, as well as broadband internet services. However, the quality of the internet connection can vary depending on the location and time of day.

Availability of WiFi

Finding WiFi in Bhutan can be a challenge, especially outside of major cities. While some hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi, the connection can be slow and unreliable. In some cases, WiFi may not be available at all.

If you are planning to travel to Bhutan and need reliable internet access, it is recommended that you bring your own portable WiFi device or purchase a local SIM card.

Local SIM Cards

Getting a local SIM card in Bhutan is relatively easy and affordable. Both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell offer prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased at their respective offices or authorized dealers. The cost of a SIM card is around 200 Bhutanese Ngultrum (approximately $2.50 USD), and you will need to provide a copy of your passport and visa to purchase one.

Once you have a local SIM card, you can top up your account with data packages that range from 100 MB to 10 GB. The cost of data packages varies depending on the service provider and the amount of data you purchase. Generally, data packages are affordable, with prices ranging from 50 Bhutanese Ngultrum (approximately $0.60 USD) for 100 MB to 1,000 Bhutanese Ngultrum (approximately $12 USD) for 10 GB.

Using a local SIM card can be a good option if you need reliable internet access during your stay in Bhutan. However, it is important to note that the quality of the internet connection can vary depending on your location and the time of day. In some remote areas, you may not have access to mobile data at all.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Bhutan may not have the most advanced internet infrastructure, it is still possible to stay connected during your visit. If you need reliable internet access, it is recommended that you bring your own portable WiFi device or purchase a local SIM card. While finding WiFi can be a challenge, getting a local SIM card is easy and affordable, and can provide you with the data you need to stay connected during your stay in Bhutan.