Bhutan Speed Test - Check Internet Performance
Test your internet speed in Bhutan
Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom where internet access expanded through government-backed infrastructure projects and competitive telecom operators. Average fixed broadband speeds reached 26.6 Mbps download and 33.8 Mbps upload by early 2025, with Galaxynet Connections Private leading performance among fixed providers. Mobile networks provide 4G coverage to 98.63% of the country across all 20 dzongkhags and 196 of 205 gewogs. With 98.0% internet penetration and about 770,000 internet users, Bhutan transformed from limited connectivity to near-universal access. Test your connection to verify your ISP delivers the speeds you pay for, especially as fiber, 5G, and satellite options expand across urban and rural areas.
Internet in Bhutan
The Bhutan internet market operates as a duopoly with state-owned Bhutan Telecom holding approximately 60% market share with 500,000 mobile subscribers and privately-owned TashiCell at 40% with 300,000 mobile subscribers.
Bhutan Telecom provides services through its B-Mobile brand, using near-ubiquitous 2G and 3G coverage, legacy wireline backbone, and close alignment with government entities. TashiCell competes through early 5G adoption and youth-oriented marketing.
Both operators provide fiber-to-the-home services in urban areas with speeds ranging from 100 to 500 Mbps. Starlink entered the market in February 2025, offering satellite internet at Nu 4,200 monthly with speeds of 25 to 110 Mbps, creating new competition for traditional providers.
The government built a national fiber backbone connecting all 20 dzongkhags with fiber links reaching 196 of 205 gewogs by 2016 under the National Broadband Master Plan. 5G coverage reached 18 of 20 dzongkhags by 2023 with Bhutan Telecom reporting 756 active 5G users and TashiCell over 500, with no extra charges for 5G access.
Internet penetration stands at 98.0% with the remaining 2% offline population concentrated in the most remote villages. The government targets leaving no one offline under the 13th Five Year Plan, aligning with Bhutan's vision to achieve developed country status by 2034.
Internet Infrastructure in Bhutan
Fiber Broadband
Bhutan built its internet infrastructure through the National Broadband Master Plan, establishing a national fiber backbone connecting all 20 dzongkhags. By 2016, fiber links reached 196 of 205 gewogs using optical ground wire on power transmission lines with SDH equipment at the Phuntsholing gateway on the Indian border.
Mobile Networks
The government connected all dzongkhags, 205 gewogs, and 200 community centers to the government intranet system network. Rural Connectivity Projects delivered infrastructure to hundreds of remote villages, with Phase VI completed in December 2022 bringing 4G data and 2G voice to 68 villages across 10 dzongkhags.
Fiber Broadband
Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell each built over 600 network towers covering urban and rural areas. 4G network coverage reached 98.63% of the country by 2024, while 3G coverage stood at 98.28%. Both operators provide fiber-to-the-home services in urban areas including Thimphu, Phuentsholing, Paro, and other major towns. Fiber speeds range from 100 to 500 Mbps depending on plan tier.
Mobile Networks
5G deployment began with a soft launch in late 2021. By 2023, 5G coverage reached 18 of 20 dzongkhags. Bhutan Telecom reported about 756 active 5G users while TashiCell had over 500 users. Both operators charge no extra fees for 5G access, making it available at standard mobile data rates.
Industry observers expect 5G to expand to all dzongkhags and major towns by 2025 to 2027, with vendors including Ericsson supporting infrastructure rollout.
Satellite Internet
Starlink satellite internet launched in Bhutan in December 2024 with services operational by February 2025. Starlink offers Residential Lite with 23 to 100 Mbps speeds and Standard service with 25 to 110 Mbps.
The satellite option provides connectivity to remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure remains difficult to deploy. Starlink Services Private Limited registered with the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority to operate legally.
Bhutan depends on international connectivity through India, with upstream bandwidth purchased from Indian providers. The government plans to establish additional international links to reduce costs and decrease reliance on single-country transit. However, Bhutan's mountainous terrain and small population make infrastructure investment challenging.
Fiber Broadband
The country used power line infrastructure for fiber deployment, reducing costs compared to dedicated fiber routes.
Internet Speed: Urban vs Rural Bhutan
Urban Areas
Thimphu, the capital, holds the strongest internet infrastructure with fiber-to-the-home from both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell. Residents access speeds from 100 to 500 Mbps depending on plan selection. 5G coverage operates in Thimphu with both operators providing service.
Urban internet penetration approaches 100% with fiber, 5G mobile, and 4G LTE all available. Starlink provides an additional satellite option at Nu 4,200 monthly.
Phuentsholing, Paro, Jakar, and other major towns across the 20 dzongkhags benefit from fiber infrastructure and strong mobile coverage. 5G reached 18 of 20 dzongkhags by 2023, giving most urban areas access to next-generation mobile speeds.
Remote and Underserved
Fiber connections in these towns deliver reliable performance for remote work, video calls, and streaming. Both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell compete for subscribers, keeping prices relatively affordable.
Rural Areas
Rural areas face connectivity challenges despite high overall coverage. While 4G reached 98.63% of the country and fiber links extended to 196 of 205 gewogs, actual service quality varies significantly. Bhutan's rugged mountainous terrain makes infrastructure installation and maintenance difficult.
Many remote villages rely on mobile networks rather than fixed fiber. Rural Connectivity Projects delivered 4G data and 2G voice to 68 villages in Phase VI, but some isolated hamlets remain unconnected.
The remaining 2% offline population concentrates in the most remote villages with difficult terrain, lack of roads, and unreliable power supply. Infrastructure projects continue reaching the last unconnected settlements. The government committed to leaving no one offline under the 13th Five Year Plan.
However, the cost of extending fiber to scattered mountain villages remains high. Satellite internet from Starlink offers a potential solution for areas where terrestrial infrastructure is not viable.
Speed differences between urban and rural areas are significant. Urban fiber delivers 100 to 500 Mbps while rural mobile connections average far lower, often limited by 3G or basic 4G infrastructure. The national average of 26.6 Mbps download reflects this mix. Electricity reliability affects rural connectivity, with power outages disrupting network equipment in remote areas.
Internet Providers & Speed in Bhutan
Bhutan Telecom dominates the market as the state-owned incumbent with approximately 500,000 mobile subscribers representing 60% market share. Owned by the government of Bhutan, Bhutan Telecom operates the B-Mobile brand for mobile services and provides fixed broadband through fiber-to-the-home in urban areas.
The company built over 600 network towers providing near-ubiquitous 2G and 3G coverage with 4G reaching 98.63% of the country. Bhutan Telecom reported 756 active 5G users by 2023 across 18 dzongkhags. The operator uses legacy wireline backbone infrastructure and close alignment with government entities.
Bhutan Telecom charges Nu 5,500 monthly for 10 Mbps Internet Leased Line service. The company provides connectivity to remote areas through Rural Connectivity Projects, delivering 4G and 2G to villages where private operators find service commercially challenging.
TashiCell
TashiCell operates as the private sector competitor with approximately 300,000 mobile subscribers representing 40% market share. A subsidiary of Tashi Group, a Bhutanese conglomerate, TashiCell provides mobile services and fiber-to-the-home in urban areas. The company built over 600 network towers covering urban and rural areas.
TashiCell reported over 500 active 5G users by 2023. The operator positions itself through early 5G adoption and youth-oriented marketing. TashiCell charges Nu 8,700 monthly for 10 Mbps Internet Leased Line service.
The company
The company offers unlimited data plans starting at Nu 1,350 monthly with a one-time setup fee of Nu 5,000. TashiCell competes aggressively on service quality and network speed in covered markets.
Starlink
Starlink entered the Bhutan market in December 2024 with services operational by February 2025. Starlink Services Private Limited registered with the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority to provide satellite internet legally. Starlink charges Nu 4,200 monthly for residential service with speeds of 25 to 110 Mbps and unlimited data.
The satellite option undercuts traditional leased line pricing from Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell while offering higher speeds. Starlink's entry intensified competition, pushing local providers to improve offerings.
The satellite service
The satellite service provides connectivity to remote locations where terrestrial infrastructure remains difficult or impossible to deploy. However, Starlink requires clear sky visibility and faces challenges during monsoon season.
Galaxynet Connections Private appeared in speed test data from early 2025 with the fastest broadband speeds in Bhutan at 26.6 Mbps download and 33.8 Mbps upload. Limited information exists about this provider's market share or service area. The company may operate as a niche ISP serving specific urban areas or business customers.
Internet Speed by Region in Bhutan
Thimphu (Capital)
Strongest internet infrastructure in Bhutan. Fiber-to-the-home available from both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell with speeds from 100 to 500 Mbps. 5G coverage operational from both operators. Urban internet penetration approaches 100%. Starlink satellite service available at Nu 4,200 monthly. Multiple connectivity options create competition. Best performance in the country for remote work and streaming. Infrastructure includes fiber along roads and 5G towers throughout the city.
Major Towns (Phuentsholing, Paro, Jakar)
Strong fiber and mobile coverage across the 20 dzongkhags. 5G reached 18 of 20 dzongkhags by 2023. Fiber-to-the-home available in major towns from Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell. 4G LTE coverage excellent with 98.63% nationwide penetration. Fixed broadband speeds average below Thimphu but sufficient for most uses. Both operators compete for subscribers. Infrastructure follows highway corridors and connects district centers.
Connected Rural Gewogs (196 of 205)
Fiber backbone reaches 196 of 205 gewogs under National Broadband Master Plan. 4G mobile coverage available in most areas with 98.63% nationwide reach. Actual service quality varies by location and terrain. Rural Connectivity Project Phase VI brought 4G data and 2G voice to 68 villages across 10 dzongkhags. Speeds drop significantly from urban areas. Mobile networks serve as primary access method. Electricity reliability affects connectivity. Infrastructure maintenance challenging in mountainous terrain.
Remote Villages and Mountain Areas
Remaining 2% offline population concentrates in most isolated villages. Difficult terrain including steep mountains, rivers, and scattered settlements make infrastructure costly. Some areas lack reliable roads and electricity affecting network equipment. Rural Connectivity Projects continue extending coverage. Starlink satellite offers potential solution where terrestrial infrastructure not viable. Government committed to universal connectivity under 13th Five Year Plan but last-mile connections remain challenging. Basic 3G or 4G where available but speeds far below national average.
Internet Pricing in Bhutan
Mobile Data Pricing
Mobile data costs in Bhutan average USD 0.71 per GB, approximately Nu 59, making it among the lowest in Asia though higher than India's USD 0.20 per GB. Bhutan Telecom offers prepaid packages including 30 GB for around Nu 645, approximately USD 8, valid for 30 days.
The low mobile data pricing reflects healthy competition between Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell plus regulatory pressure to keep costs affordable. Both operators charge no extra fees for 5G access, making next-generation mobile speeds available at standard data rates.
Fixed Broadband Pricing
Fixed broadband pricing varies significantly by service level. Internet Leased Line service costs Nu 5,500 monthly from Bhutan Telecom for 10 Mbps. TashiCell charges Nu 8,700 monthly for the same 10 Mbps bandwidth.
For comparison, similar 30 Mbps leased line service costs Nu 16,500 monthly in Bhutan while India charges about Nu 400 for equivalent service, showing Bhutan's higher fixed broadband costs relative to its large neighbor. TashiCell offers unlimited data plans starting at Nu 1,350 monthly with a one-time setup fee of Nu 5,000.
Starlink entered the market at Nu 4,200 monthly for residential service providing 25 to 110 Mbps speeds with unlimited data. This undercuts traditional leased line pricing from Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell while delivering higher speeds. Starlink's competitive pricing forced local providers to reassess their offerings. However, Starlink requires upfront hardware costs and clear sky visibility.
Affordability
The government committed to cutting telecom data and internet charges by 50% by end of year according to ministerial statements. This would make internet more accessible to lower-income households and rural residents.
Current pricing remains affordable for urban middle-class families but creates barriers for rural and low-income populations. The price reduction goal aligns with universal connectivity targets under the 13th Five Year Plan.
Contract and Fees
Fiber-to-the-home packages in urban areas range from entry-level speeds to premium 500 Mbps plans. Both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell offer tiered pricing with monthly subscriptions. Installation fees typically apply for new fiber connections. Urban competition keeps prices more reasonable than rural leased line costs.
Network Technology in Bhutan
5G Rollout
5G deployment began with a soft launch in late 2021 and expanded to 18 of 20 dzongkhags by 2023. Bhutan Telecom reported approximately 756 active 5G users while TashiCell had over 500 users by 2023. Both operators charge no extra fees for 5G access, making it available at standard mobile data rates.
This pricing approach removes barriers to 5G adoption among existing smartphone users. Industry observers expect 5G coverage to reach all dzongkhags and major towns by 2025 to 2027, with infrastructure vendors including Ericsson supporting rollout.
Device ownership remains a constraint with limited consumers owning 5G-compatible handsets, slowing adoption despite network availability.
4G LTE coverage reached 98.63% of the country by 2024, providing high-speed mobile internet to nearly all residents across all 20 dzongkhags and 196 of 205 gewogs. Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell each built over 600 network towers delivering 4G service.
Legacy Technologies
Rural Connectivity Project Phase VI completed in December 2022 brought 4G data and 2G voice to 68 villages across 10 dzongkhags, extending coverage to previously isolated areas.
Fiber Deployment
Mobile broadband serves as the primary internet access method for most Bhutanese, especially in rural areas where fiber infrastructure remains limited. 3G coverage reached 98.28% by 2024, providing backup connectivity where 4G is unavailable.
Fiber-to-the-home deployment concentrates in urban areas including Thimphu, Phuentsholing, Paro, Jakar, and other major towns. Both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell offer fiber services with speeds ranging from 100 to 500 Mbps depending on plan tier.
The National Broadband Master Plan established a national fiber backbone connecting all 20 dzongkhags with fiber links reaching 196 of 205 gewogs by 2016. The government used optical ground wire on power transmission lines to reduce fiber deployment costs.
However, last-mile fiber connections to individual homes remain limited outside urban centers due to mountainous terrain and scattered settlement patterns.
Satellite and Emerging
Starlink satellite internet launched in December 2024 with services operational by February 2025. Starlink Services Private Limited registered with the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority to operate legally.
The satellite option provides speeds of 23 to 110 Mbps depending on service tier, offering connectivity to remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure faces physical and economic barriers. Starlink's entry created a third technology platform alongside mobile and fiber, giving consumers more options particularly in underserved rural areas.
Internet penetration reached 98.0% of the population by 2024, representing dramatic growth from much lower levels a decade earlier. The remaining 2% offline population concentrates in the most isolated mountain villages with difficult terrain, lack of roads, and unreliable electricity.
Fiber Deployment
The government targets universal connectivity under the 13th Five Year Plan, aligning with Bhutan's vision to achieve developed country status by 2034. Infrastructure projects continue extending fiber and mobile coverage to the last unconnected settlements, though costs remain high relative to small population served.
How to Choose an ISP in Bhutan
Several factors determine the best provider at your address in Bhutan. Check coverage, compare pricing, and test speeds before signing a contract.
Check fiber availability from Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell at your specific
address in Thimphu, Phuentsholing, Paro, or other major towns. If available, fiber delivers the most reliable speeds from 100 to 500 Mbps for remote work, video calls, and streaming.
If fiber is unavailable
check mobile 4G and 5G coverage quality from both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell. Coverage reaches 98.63% for 4G and 18 dzongkhags for 5G, but actual signal strength varies by location. Test different operators to find the strongest signal at your specific address.
For rural areas without fiber or reliable mobile coverage
consider Starlink satellite internet at Nu 4,200 monthly. Starlink delivers 25 to 110 Mbps speeds to remote locations where terrestrial infrastructure faces physical barriers. However, Starlink requires clear sky visibility and upfront hardware costs.
Compare pricing across options
Mobile data costs about Nu 59 per GB with packages like 30 GB for Nu 645 monthly. Leased line internet costs Nu 5,500 from Bhutan Telecom or Nu 8,700 from TashiCell for 10 Mbps.
Test actual speeds before committing to long contracts
Ask neighbors which provider performs best in your specific building or area. Signal quality varies significantly even within the same town.
Visit both providers' websites or retail locations and verify service at your exact location. Compare pricing, installation fees, and contract terms before deciding. Fiber performs better than mobile for households with multiple devices and high data usage.
Bhutan Telecom typically offers wider coverage including rural areas, while TashiCell competes strongly in urban markets. Mobile data works for browsing and social media but struggles with sustained video calls and large uploads.
Service quality drops during heavy rain and monsoon season. Verify line of sight to the northern sky before purchasing equipment.
Starlink charges Nu 4,200 monthly with no bandwidth cap. Calculate your monthly data usage and match it to the most affordable option. Heavy users benefit from unlimited plans or Starlink. Light users save money with prepaid mobile packages.
Request trial periods where possible. Test during evening peak hours when congestion is highest. For remote work requiring reliable video calls, fiber remains the best option if available. Mobile and satellite work as backup or in areas without fiber infrastructure.
Compare Internet Providers in Bhutan
The table below shows top providers by connection type and maximum advertised speed.
| Provider | Type | Max Speed |
|---|---|---|
| TashiCell | fiber | 1000 Mbps |
| Bhutan Telecom | fiber | 100 Mbps |
Test Your Connection Speed
Run a speed test to verify your Bhutan provider delivers advertised speeds. Test during peak evening hours for the most accurate results.
Internet Providers in Bhutan
Compare internet speeds across major providers in Bhutan. Click on a provider to test your connection.
Bhutan Speed Test FAQ
How do I test my internet speed in Bhutan?
Click the Start Test button to measure your download speed, upload speed, and ping latency. For accurate results on fiber connections, connect your device directly to the router using an ethernet cable. Close background apps including messaging services and video streaming before testing. Test at different times because evening hours often show slower speeds due to network congestion when more users are online. The test takes about 30 seconds and works on any device with a modern browser. Compare your result against your plan's advertised speed. If you consistently get below 60% of your paid speed, contact Bhutan Telecom, TashiCell, or your ISP to troubleshoot or consider switching providers.
What is the average internet speed in Bhutan?
Bhutan average fixed broadband download speed is 26.6 Mbps according to SpeedChecker data from early 2025, with upload speeds averaging 33.8 Mbps from leading provider Galaxynet Connections Private. However, speeds vary widely by location and technology. Urban fiber connections deliver 100 to 500 Mbps while mobile networks average 23.15 kbit/s nationwide. 5G networks offer higher speeds where available across 18 of 20 dzongkhags. Rural areas typically experience lower speeds due to reliance on 3G and 4G mobile networks. Latency remains low for regional connectivity. Run a speed test to see how your specific connection compares to these national averages, as performance depends heavily on your ISP, plan tier, and distance from infrastructure.
Which ISP has the fastest internet in Bhutan?
Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell both offer fiber-to-the-home services in urban areas with speeds ranging from 100 to 500 Mbps depending on plan tier. Bhutan Telecom holds 60% market share with approximately 500,000 mobile subscribers and provides the widest coverage including rural areas. TashiCell serves 40% of the market with 300,000 subscribers and competes through early 5G adoption. Galaxynet Connections Private recorded the highest speeds in early 2025 tests at 26.6 Mbps download and 33.8 Mbps upload. Starlink satellite internet entered the market in February 2025 offering 25 to 110 Mbps speeds. Actual performance depends heavily on your specific location and plan. Test speeds at your exact address before choosing an ISP.
Is 5G available in Bhutan?
5G networks operate in 18 of 20 dzongkhags as of 2023, with both Bhutan Telecom and TashiCell providing service. Bhutan Telecom reported approximately 756 active 5G users while TashiCell had over 500 users. Neither operator charges extra fees for 5G access, making it available at standard mobile data rates to customers with compatible devices. 5G launched with a soft rollout in late 2021 and expanded through 2023. Industry observers expect coverage to reach all dzongkhags and major towns by 2025 to 2027. However, device ownership remains limited with few consumers owning 5G-compatible handsets, slowing adoption despite network availability. Urban areas including Thimphu, Phuentsholing, and Paro enjoy the strongest 5G coverage.
How much does internet cost in Bhutan?
Mobile data costs approximately Nu 59 per GB in Bhutan, with prepaid packages like 30 GB for Nu 645 valid 30 days from Bhutan Telecom. Fixed broadband pricing varies significantly. Internet Leased Line service costs Nu 5,500 monthly from Bhutan Telecom for 10 Mbps or Nu 8,700 from TashiCell for the same speed. TashiCell offers unlimited data plans starting at Nu 1,350 monthly plus Nu 5,000 one-time setup fee. Starlink satellite internet costs Nu 4,200 monthly with speeds of 25 to 110 Mbps and unlimited data, undercutting traditional leased line pricing. The government committed to reducing internet charges by 50% to improve affordability. Prices remain low for mobile data but fixed broadband costs run higher than neighboring India.