Until the 1960s the country had no national currency, no telephones, no schools, no hospitals, no postal service and certainly no tourists. Development efforts have now produced all these – plus a national assembly, airport, roads and a national system of health care. Despite the speed of modernisation, Bhutan has maintained a policy of careful, controlled growth in an effort to preserve its national identity. The government has cautiously accepted tourism, TV and the internet and is set to embark on perhaps its biggest challenge – democracy.
Time difference
Bhutan’s time zone is +6GMT meaning they are 4 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
Phone
The Bhutan phone system is fairly good and you will be able to make calls from your hotel at an additional charge. Phone booths are widely available except in remote areas.
To call Australia the international access code is 00, followed by the country code, 61 then the local area code (omitting the first 0) then the number. For example to call Wendy Wu Tours the number would be 00 61 2 9224 8888.
Mobile Phones
Mobile reception is generally good, however not all services providers are compatible with the local network. Please ensure global roaming is available with your service provider before departing Australia. If you wish to have mobile coverage and your phone is capable of changing SIM cards you can purchase one and continue to top up your charge at the many ‘B Mobile’ recharge stands/shops.
Post
International postage is inexpensive and takes approximately three to four weeks to reach its destination.
Internet services are developing in Bhutan as the country accepts more foreign visitors. Most hotels have a business centre with computer and internet access available for a reasonable additional charge. Internet cafés are around but not abundant; please inquire with your National Escort/Local Guide.