Bhutan, a landlocked country tucked away in the eastern Himalayas, faces unique geographical challenges impacting technology and telecommunications. With its rugged mountains and dispersed population centred in the capital, Thimphu, and smaller towns, it initially had difficulties in establishing a countrywide communication network. Nevertheless, through technologies such as 4G and satellite communications, Bhutan has worked to alleviate these challenges. This has enabled isolated communities to have access to telecommunication services. Additionally, Bhutan's collaboration with SpaceX's Starlink project signals its active pursuit of leveraging emerging technologies to address infrastructure gaps. Despite its unique challenges, Bhutan continues to make strides in integrating technology and telecommunications within its territories.
Mobile Network Operators
The are 2 companies operating mobile networks in this region.
Bhutan Telecom Limited (BTL) is a provider of telecommunications and Internet services in the Kingdom of Bhutan. In addition to fixed line services, the company provides mobile services under its flagship brand B-Mobile, and Internet services under the brand name of DrukNet.
BTL came into existence on 1 July 2000 as a fully state-owned company, following partial privatisation of the Department of Telecommunications which has a history dating back to 1970. The first rudimentary works in building a telecommunication network in the country was taken up in 1963 to aid development works of the First...
TashiCell is a telecommunications company operating in Bhutan. The company was incorporated on January 23, 2007 and launched its GSM services in April, 2008, under the brand name "TashiCell". It is a subsidiary of Tashi Group, a prominent conglomerate in Bhutan with interests in various sectors. TashiCell provides a range of telecommunication services across the country, with a significant presence in the mobile network sector. The company's ownership lies primarily with the Tashi Group, making it a Bhutanese-owned entity.