Transportation & Infrastructure Guide
Public transit, airports, and getting around in Bhutan
Public Transport
Road Infrastructure
Public Transport
3.2/10Public transport limited to bus services from major terminals connecting cities like Thimphu and Phuentsholing. No metro, rail, or BRT systems; 314 intra-city and 358 intercity buses provide basic coverage but are crowded, unreliable, and lack integration or accessibility features.
Road Infrastructure
4.2/10Limited road network with only 30% paved as of 2016, now improving via government upgrades; connects key regions but prone to landslides and climate damage. No extensive highways; urban roads adequate but rural paths narrow, winding, with variable maintenance and safety features.
Internet Speed
4.5/10Moderate internet speeds with urban broadband averaging 40-60 Mbps; fiber expanding in cities like Thimphu via DrukNet, but rural areas lag with 4G/3G. Mobile data reliable in populated zones; investments ongoing for better connectivity.
Avg: 48+ Mbps • Available in Thimphu and major towns; limited rural rollout, government targeting expansion by 2026
Airport Connectivity
3.8/10Paro International Airport (sole entry point) handles international flights to India, Bangladesh, Thailand; challenging landings due to valleys. 12 total airports including 2 major (Paro, Bumthang domestic); limited routes and no major hubs.
Hubs: Paro International Airport (PBH)
Transportation Costs
- Metro Pass
- N/A (no metro)
- Bus Trip
- BTN 80-200 ($1-2.50) per ride
- Taxi
- BTN 20/km ($0.30/km); Thimphu flag fall BTN 50
- High-speed Train
- N/A (no trains; rail under development with India)
Mobile Network
Reliable 4G in cities with speeds up to 50 Mbps; rural coverage improving but disrupted by terrain. Dual carriers provide good urban service.
Driving License
Foreign licenses valid for 3 months with IDP (required for non-English); long-term residents must convert to Bhutanese license via test. Drive on left; tourists use guides' vehicles typically.
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