Telecommunication Service Usage in Bhutan

TeleCompass — A Guide for Better Connectivity

Introduction

I am Yangchay, a third-year student pursuing Bachelor of Business Intelligence at Gedu College of Business Studies. As part of my internship program, I worked on a project titled “Telecommunication Service Usage in Bhutan.” This project focused on analyzing user behavior and internet usage patterns across different needs and locations within the country. The aim of this web platform is to serve as a compass that helps users identify the most suitable network service based on their requirements.


Situation Overview

When I got enrolled as an intern under Bhutan Data Scientist Pvt. Ltd. doing remote work, I depended heavily on mobile data for everything—online research, Zoom meetings, and everyday online activities.

Because I was using mobile data for almost all my activities, the expenses were high. I was spending around Nu. 699 in a week, and even when I tried a Nu. 1199 plan, I still had to recharge twice a month, and it still barely lasted. In total, I ended up spending more than Nu. 2500.

Problem Faced

I wanted to save some money and switch to Wi-Fi service or get a plan with higher value that could save me a few bucks, but I often struggled with uncertainty. I was confused about which telecommunication service to choose or whether I should continue with my current plan. My thoughts kept going back and forth, especially when trying to manage internet costs. I even worried, “What if my investment in Wi-Fi fails?”

When I inquired at a service counter, I was advised to reconsider carefully. I was told that if the internet strength in my area is weak, the Wi-Fi performance would also be poor, and in such cases, refunds would not be possible. At the same time, I heard rumors circulating that Wi-Fi services were no longer as reliable as before, with some users requesting refunds and others complaining about cost and stability on social media. This made me even more uncertain and overwhelmed, and for nearly a month, I kept going back and forth with my decision.

Over time, I had to become more careful about how I used the internet. I started limiting my entertainment activities like gaming, online videos, and watching dramas because of data constraints.

I was always stressed about running out of data and unhappy about not being able to watch videos or play music freely which also affected my work efficiency.

Solution

Later, my cousin suggested that I try using Wi-Fi. She kindly let me use her router, and I started working through it.

The difference was clear.

With Wi-Fi, I could do my work smoothly, attend Zoom meetings without interruption, and freely use the internet for research and entertainment such as YouTube, TikTok, games, and dramas without worrying about running out of data.

It also became more affordable, costing Nu. 1450 per month, which was much better than what I was spending on mobile data.

This experience taught me that the type of internet connection matters a lot depending on how it is used. For remote work and daily usage, Wi-Fi was simply more stable, practical, and cost-effective for me.

🇧🇹 Bhutan Connectivity Study

Kuzu Zangpo La

“This page is designed to guide you toward better connectivity choices that match your needs and lifestyle.”

A guide for better connectivity — explore available internet service across Bhutan & helping you choose the right internet service for your need.

3 Telecoms
20 Dzongkhags
3 Key Insights
100+ Respondents
teleBhutan
📍 Thimphu, Bhutan
👤 About Us

Project Background

🎓
Intern Researcher
Data Practitioner -
Turning Data into Insights

As part of my college program, I completed a six-month internship at Bhutan Data Scientists Pvt. Ltd. This project explores telecommunications service usage in Bhutan, with a focus on customer preferences and satisfaction. The website aims to provide personalized service recommendations based on user's needs.

The project focuses on reducing Bhutan's digital divide by understanding connectivity gaps and promoting fair access, to telecommunications services across all 20 dzongkhags.

20 Dzongkhags
100+ Respondents
2026 Study Year
🏔️

Project Highlights

  • Understanding Mobile data package & Wi-Fi Usage PatternsExamining the internet service usage pattern across urban and rural area of Bhutan, including what is their primary purpose and their needs based on occupation.
  • Analysing Customer SatisfactionMeasuring satisfaction levels with service quality, network reliability, and pricing, and how these factors influence daily usage of different services.
  • Responsive Dashboard for InsightsBuilding an interactive Tableau dashboard that enables users to explore data visually, filter by region, and identify trends at a glance, helping them better understand services based on their needs.
  • Recommendations for Better ConnectivityHaving a better connectivity recommendations is our priority, and we welcome user feedback that goes beyond the scope of this project, helping us improve and provide better, more tailored services.
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Our Mission

To provide Bhutan's telecom ecosystem with a clear, data-driven compass helping every individual user navigate toward a more connected, reliable, and prosperous digital future in harmony with the values of Gross National Happiness.

📊 Data Analytics

Connectivity Insight Dashboard

Explore Bhutan's data package and Wi-Fi usage patterns across different regions and purposes, along with demographic trends and user satisfaction, through our interactive Tableau visualisation.

94%
Mobile Internet Penetration
3.8★
Avg. Customer Satisfaction
3
Active Telecom Providers
Data Package
Most used service
Students
Majority of the respondent

📡 Bhutan Connectivity — Interactive View

Powered by Tableau Public · Use filters to drill down by region, type of service, or purpose

ⓘ public.tableau.com - internship project

Key Findings

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Mobile Dominance

Bhutanese access the internet primarily via mobile devices, with 4G/LTE being the most used standard and introduction of 5G service in urban central.

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Rural Gap

A significant issue regarding network connectivity and realibility shows a potential for Starlink's satellite service to help bridge in remote dzongkhags and curb the gap.

Satisfaction Trends

Average satisfaction scores hover around 3/5, with network reliability and affordable pricing cited as the top improvement priorities.

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Growth Opportunity

Bhutan is strengthening digital infrastructure through the Digital Drukyul initiative, expanding fibre networks and improving rural connectivity.

🏢 Telecom Providers

Bhutan's Telecom Companies

Three key players bridging connectivity across the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Bhutan Telecom

Bhutan Telecom Limited

State-Owned · Est. 2000

The B-Mobile network, now has a comprehensive reach, covering all 205 gewogs across the country, ensuring connectivity even in remote areas.

4G LTE / 5G Fibre Broadband Fixed-Line

Tashi InfoComm Pvt Ltd

Private · Est. 2008

Offers mobile services across urban and growing semi-urban areas. Known for its competitive pricing and customer-focused plan

4G LTE / 5G Mobile Network Urban Coverage

Starlink

Global · SpaceX LEO Satellite

A satellite-based internet service, increasingly available in Bhutan as an alternative for remote and high-altitude areas. Better connectivity ideal for Bhutan's mountainous terrain.

Satellite Internet Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Remote Coverage

Quick Comparison

ProviderTypeCoverageStrength
Bhutan Telecom State / Mobile / Fixed Nationwide Widest infrastructure
Tashi InfoComm Private / Mobile Urban + growing rural Competitive pricing
Starlink Satellite Remote / High-altitude Low-latency satellite
📡

Find Your Best Connectivity

👉Let us help you enjoy a better experience with available telecommunication services.👈

Your Location

Primary Purpose

Occupation

📬 Share Your Feedback

Contact Us

Have questions about the project or insights? Share your feedback to help us improve and better understand connectivity needs.

📍

Location

Chhukha Dzongkhag
Bhutan 🇧🇹

🕐

Response Time

We aim to reply within 2 business days.

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Quick Links