This guide covers information on purchasing a SIM card at Paro Airport (PBH): prices, how to obtain, things to prepare, and the best alternative to airport physical SIM.
B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Cards & eSIMs: Detailed Guide
This article covers necessary information on obtaining and using B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards and eSIMs to get the Internet while exploring the world’s happiest country.
B-Mobile is one of Bhutan’s leading mobile providers, offering both physical SIM cards and eSIM solutions for travelers. Whether you’re looking to stay connected with calls, texts, or mobile data during your Bhutan trip, B-Mobile has flexible, affordable options to choose from.
This detailed guide reveals everything you need to know about getting and using B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards, including how to purchase, activate, and recharge them. It also explores the convenience and benefits of B-Mobile’s Bhutan eSIM plans as an alternative to physical SIMs.
In this article
I. Overview of B-Mobile Bhutan – What You Need to Know
B-Mobile is one of the largest telecommunications and mobile service providers in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Some key points about B-Mobile include:
- Founded: in 2000;
- Headquarter: Thimphu, Bhutan;
- Types of services: a full range of mobile services, including prepaid and postpaid voice, text, and data plans for both local and international use;
- Coverage: all 205 Gewogs (administrative blocks) across Bhutan, ensuring reliable connectivity even in the most remote areas;
- Distribution: authorized dealers and retailers located throughout the country, as well as online channels;
- Customer support: online chat, call center, walk-in;
- Language: English, Dzongkha
II. B-Mobile Coverage in Bhutan
According to the B-Mobile coverage map by nPerf, this operator has extensive mobile network coverage across Bhutan. Some key details about B-Mobile’s coverage include:
- B-Mobile’s 2G and 3G networks provide reliable voice and basic data services in all 20 districts of Bhutan, even reaching remote rural villages.
- The company’s 4G/LTE network is continuously being expanded to major towns and population centers, enabling high-speed mobile service.
Whether you are hiking in the Himalayas, visiting a rural village, or exploring Bhutan’s vibrant cities, you can count on B-Mobile to keep you connected across the country.
III. B-Mobile Speed in Bhutan
B-Mobile delivers reliable mobile data speeds across Bhutan. Several main points about B-Mobile speeds include:
- 2G & 3G networks deliver basic connectivity for voice, messaging, and low-speed data applications.
- 4G/LTE services available in urban centers enable smooth video streaming, file downloads, and other high-bandwidth activities.
B-Mobile continues to upgrade and expand its 4G coverage, with plans to further boost speeds and capacities to meet the growing demand for high-speed mobile internet across the Kingdom of Bhutan.
IV. Types of B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Card Options for Tourists
Two types of B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards for travelers include:
- Prepaid physical SIM
- Prepaid eSIM
Criteria | Prepaid physical SIM | Prepaid eSIM |
Activation | Requires buying and inserting SIM at B-Mobile stores & retailers | Activated digitally on your device via app or website |
Availability | Widely available at B-Mobile shops and authorized retailers nationwide | Currently limited to select compatible devices |
Device compatibility | Works with any unlocked GSM-compatible smartphone or device | Only compatible with eSIM-enabled mobile devices |
Pros | Widely available option and works with any unlocked phone. | No physical SIM to keep track of, easier to activate on the go. |
Cons | Extra cost for SIM card, can be misplaced or damaged. | Limited device compatibility, fewer eSIM purchase locations |
Data plans | Various daily, weekly, and monthly plans with data allowances | Flexible data-only packs |
Cost | Extra top-ups required | No SIM card cost, buy data plan online or through app |
► Recommendation:
Obtaining a prepaid B-Mobile SIM card when you get to Bhutan can be a budget-friendly option. But setting up a B-Mobile eSIM before your travel lets you activate mobile service right from home.
A B-Mobile eSIM is a digital SIM you can download and set up online, so you do not have to find a SIM store after arriving or wrestle with inserting a regular SIM. It is handy to have your mobile package ready to go ahead of time. Make certain your laptop/ phone/ tablet enables eSIM.
V. Top B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Cards for Travelers & Prices
B-Mobile Bhutan delivers a diverse range of SIM options and data bundles at affordable prices. This lets you pick the B-Mobile data plan that best suits your usage needs and length of stay.
Plan Name | Data | Validity | Price |
Weekly 49 | 660 MB | 7 days | BTN 49 – US $0.58 |
Monthly 199 | 2,764 MB | 30 days | BTN 199 – US $2.35 |
Monthly 299 | 4,608 MB | 30 days | BTN 299 – US $3.54 |
Monthly 499 | 8,499 MB | 30 days | BTN 499 – US $5.9 |
Monthly 699 | 22,937 MB | 30 days | BTN 699 – US $8.27 |
Monthly 799 | 27,033 MB | 30 days | BTN 799 – US $9.45 |
Monthly 999 | 37,570 MB | 30 days | BTN 999 – US $11.82 |
Important Note: Check out B-Mobile’s website to see the latest details on B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards.
VI. Where to Obtain B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Cards for Tourists?
3 choices for visitors to get B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards include:
- On arrival at Bhutan airports
- In city center
- Online
1. Purchase B-Mobile SIM at Bhutan Airports
Tourists can easily select B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards at Paro International Airport. B-Mobile has a SIM counter located at the arrival zone. Buy B-Mobile Bhutan SIM and get it set up right away so you can access Bhutan’s network from the movement you land.
Requirements: ID verification required, BTN cash/credit card for payment
Price & Plan: fewer SIM options, more expensive than city store prices
2. Buy B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Cards in the City Center
If you are in Bhutan, buying a B-Mobile SIM is a breeze. Visit any B-Mobile store in the cities like Paro or Thimphu. B-Mobile will set you up with a prepaid SIM card and get you connected to B-Mobile’s reliable 4G network.
Requirement: ID proof needed
Plan & Price: Wide choice of B-Mobile SIM options, cheaper than airport rates
Pro Tip: Type “B-Mobile shops near me” into Google Maps to find the nearest B-Mobile store.
3. Order B-Mobile SIM Online Before Departure
If you want to have your Bhutan SIM card before your flight, you may get one online. B-Mobile sells prepaid SIM cards that may be delivered to you, allowing you to start using them as soon as you arrive in Bhutan.
Price & Plan: Affordable rates with a wide selection of SIM plans to pick from
Requirements: Provide name, address & mobile phone number – no passport needed
VII. Where to Get B-Mobile Bhutan eSIM for Tourists?
An eSIM for Bhutan is a handy option for visitors who do not want to deal with a traditional plastic SIM card. By getting a Bhutan eSIM virtually before your journey, you may start enjoying cellular data right away through B-Mobile Bhutan’s dependable 4G network as soon as you arrive.
eSIM packages from trusted providers like Gigago give you excellent value, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to obtaining a B-Mobile SIM card locally after you get to Bhutan.
So why choose Gigago?
- No physical shop visit
- No ID verification
- Online signup and setup
- 24/7 multilingual support (English, Japanese, Portuguese, French, Chinese, etc.)
- For Bhutan, Gigago delivers eSIM options that operate on the reliable B-Mobile’s cellular network. One weekly eSIM option gives 1GB of data over 7 days, at $10.50 , giving travelers affordable eSIM package options to get connected while in Bhutan.
See more: Gigago eSIMs for travelers to Bhutan.
VIII. How to Top Up Your B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Cards
Keeping your B-Mobile SIM card topped up with credit is easy. You can recharge your account through a few convenient methods:
- Visit any authorized B-Mobile retailer or dealer location across Bhutan and purchase an airtime scratch card or voucher.
- B-Mobile App: Use the B-Mobile app for a quick, digital top-up from your account.
- Ask a friend or family member to transfer credit to your B-Mobile number using the B-Ngul mobile money service.
No matter which option you choose, topping up your B-Mobile SIM card is quick and hassle-free, ensuring you always have enough balance to make calls, send messages, and use mobile data.
IX. FAQs about B-Mobile Bhutan SIM Cards
Where can I buy B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards?
B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards are available for purchase at authorized B-Mobile retail stores and dealers located throughout Bhutan.
How do I activate a B-Mobile Bhutan SIM card?
To activate a new B-Mobile Bhutan SIM card, you need to insert it into your unlocked device and follow the on-screen instructions. Alternatively, you can activate a B-Mobile Bhutan eSIM directly from your compatible device.
What data plans are available for B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards?
B-Mobile Bhutan offers a variety of prepaid data plans for their SIM cards, ranging from daily passes to monthly unlimited packages to suit different usage needs.
X. Conclusion
In summary, B-Mobile is the top mobile provider in Bhutan, offering both traditional SIM cards and convenient eSIM options for travelers. Whether you choose physical B-Mobile Bhutan SIM cards or eSIM, you will get reliable nationwide coverage, fast 4G data speeds, and flexible prepaid plans to keep you connected at local rates during your trip.