Area Code 2 – Thimphu
The phone area code for Thimphu is 2 (international format +9752). Browse local exchange codes (NXX) and carrier assignments below.
📍 Geographic Location of Thimphu
Geographic Coverage and Administrative Jurisdiction
Bhutan's country calling code +975 is followed by a one-digit area code for fixed-line services. The area code 2 is assigned to the capital district of Thimphu, which serves as the administrative, economic, and cultural center of the Kingdom. This geographic prefix covers the entire Thimphu Dzongkhag (district), including the capital city itself and its surrounding urban and semi-urban areas. As the seat of the national government and the royal family, Thimphu hosts all major ministries, foreign embassies, and corporate headquarters.
Dialing Formats and Number Structure
Bhutanese fixed-line numbers follow the ITU-T E.164 standard. The national significant number (NSN) for Thimphu consists of the area code 2 followed by a seven-digit subscriber number, resulting in a total of eight digits for domestic dialing. The international format is +975 2 XXX XXXX (or +9752XXXXXXX when dialed without spaces).
- Domestic call (within Bhutan): Dial 2 XXX XXXX (omit the trunk prefix 0 if used; Bhutan uses a closed numbering plan).
- International call (from abroad): Dial your country's exit code, then 975 2 XXX XXXX.
For example, to reach a fixed line in Thimphu with subscriber number 345 6789, you would dial 2 345 6789 domestically and +975 2 345 6789 from overseas.
Overlay and Numbering Considerations
Bhutan's numbering plan is administered by the Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA). Currently, there is no overlay code for Thimphu; the area code 2 is unique to the district. However, as the capital continues to expand and demand for fixed-line services grows, BICMA may introduce additional numbering resources. It is advisable to always store numbers in international format (+9752XXXXXXX) to ensure compatibility across networks and future numbering changes.
Caller Instructions
For local callers: When dialing from another district in Bhutan, you must include the area code 2. For example, from Paro to Thimphu, dial 2 XXX XXXX. For international callers: Always replace the leading '2' with the country code and drop any trunk prefix. For instance, from the United States, dial 011 975 2 XXX XXXX; from the United Kingdom, dial 00 975 2 XXX XXXX.
Thimphu's fixed-line network is fully digital and supports PSTN and VoIP services. While mobile penetration is high, fixed lines remain essential for government offices, businesses, and households. The area code 2 is also used for fax and dial-up internet services, though these are increasingly rare.