Bhutan Opens Up to International Roaming

The Bhutan GSM network operator, Bhutan Telecom has finally started offering international roaming services, although only with India, Israel, Hong Kong, Norway and Sri Lanka.

Amusingly, there is lot of paperwork involved with what is for most GSM network operators, a very simple procedure. Employees of government organizations, NGO's, diplomatic missions international bodies and business houses taking this facility officially must attach a letter from their office clearly stating that bill/s shall be cleared by their respective office.

Individuals are required to fill in the application form available in B-Mobile counter along with a security deposit of Nu.10,000 (US$220). That is about two months average salary for a Bhutan resident.

Bhutan has a restrictive policy on overseas tourists visiting the country, only allowing a limited number in each year in order to preserve its old tradition and culture. In 2000, just 6,000 foreigners were allowed to visit the country, although that number is rising as the country improves its capacity for catering to tourist needs."

Posted to the site on 18th January 2005