Bhutan

A Closer Look at Bhutan

Bhutan Flag

Bhutan Formation Date

. December 17, 1907

Bhutan Capital Name

The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu.

Bhutan Neighbours

1. China
2. India

Exploring Bhutan

Introduction

Bhutan, also known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas. It is bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and by China to the north. Despite its small size, Bhutan holds great significance in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty. The country's name, Bhutan, is derived from the Sanskrit word "Bhotanta," which means "the end of Tibet."

Key Takeaways

• Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas.
• The country's name, Bhutan, is derived from the Sanskrit word "Bhotanta."
• Bhutan holds great significance in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Geography

Bhutan's geography is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests. The country is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Gangkhar Puensum, which stands at an impressive 7,570 meters. The mountains are not only a scenic wonder but also a source of natural resources such as timber, minerals, and hydroelectric power. The climate in Bhutan varies depending on altitude. The southern part of the country has a subtropical climate with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The northern regions have a colder climate with snow-capped mountains throughout the year. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to most parts of the country.

Origin and History

Bhutan's history dates back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of human settlements dating back to 2000 BC. The country was ruled by various kingdoms until the early 20th century when it became a monarchy. In 2008, Bhutan transitioned to a constitutional monarchy, with the King as the head of state and a Prime Minister leading the government.

Government and Politics

Bhutan has a unique political system known as "Gross National Happiness," which prioritizes the well-being and happiness of its citizens over economic growth. The country is divided into 20 districts, each with its own administrative center. Bhutan maintains friendly relations with neighboring countries and has strong ties with India.

Commerce and Economy

Bhutan's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and hydroelectric power. The country's main exports include hydropower, timber, and agricultural products such as rice, corn, and apples. Bhutan's currency is the Ngultrum, which is pegged to the Indian rupee.

Demographics

Bhutan has a population of approximately 800,000 people, with a majority living in rural areas. The population is predominantly Buddhist, with a small percentage of Hindus and Christians. The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, but English is widely spoken in urban areas.

Culture

Bhutan's culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism and is reflected in its art, music, festivals, traditions, and holidays. The country celebrates several festivals throughout the year, including the famous Tsechu festival, which honors Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. Traditional arts such as thangka painting, wood carving, and mask dances are also an integral part of Bhutanese culture.

Languages and Religion

Dzongkha is the official language of Bhutan and is spoken by the majority of the population. However, there are several regional dialects spoken in different parts of the country. Buddhism is the dominant religion in Bhutan, with about 75% of the population practicing it. Hinduism is the second-largest religion, followed by Christianity.

Education and Healthcare Systems

Bhutan has made significant progress in terms of education and healthcare. The country has a literacy rate of over 70%, and education is free for all children up to the tenth grade. The healthcare system is also well-developed, with a network of hospitals and health centers providing free or low-cost services to the citizens.

Sports and Recreation

Football is the most popular sport in Bhutan, with the national team achieving some notable victories in recent years. Archery is also a popular sport, and traditional archery competitions are held throughout the year. Other recreational activities include trekking, mountain biking, and birdwatching.

Tourism

Bhutan's tourism industry is relatively small but growing. The country's pristine natural beauty, rich culture, and unique way of life attract visitors from all over the world. Some popular tourist attractions include the Tiger's Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, and the Phobjikha Valley. The government has implemented a "high-value, low-impact" policy to ensure sustainable tourism development.

Travel Information for Foreign Visitors

Foreign visitors to Bhutan must obtain a visa before arrival, which can be arranged through a licensed tour operator. The country has strict regulations on tourism, including a minimum daily spending requirement of $250 per person. However, this fee covers accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide. Health and safety precautions should also be taken when traveling to Bhutan. It is recommended to get vaccinated against diseases such as hepatitis A and typhoid before arrival. Visitors should also be respectful of local customs and etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering a temple or home.

Quotes

• "Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product." - Jigme Singye Wangchuck, former King of Bhutan
• "In Bhutan, we don't have GDP, we have GNH - Gross National Happiness." - Tshering Tobgay, former Prime Minister of Bhutan
• "The idea of GNH is that the ultimate goal of every human being is happiness, and that happiness can be achieved through inner peace and contentment." - Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, current King of Bhutan

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bhutan may be a small country, but it is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. The country's unique political system, commitment to preserving its traditions and environment, and focus on the well-being of its citizens make it a truly remarkable destination. As Bhutan continues to develop and open up to the world, it is essential to maintain a balance between progress and preserving its unique identity. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and happy people, Bhutan is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.

Bhutan Highest Point Name

Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a small landlocked country located in South Asia. It is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique approach to measuring the country's success through the concept of Gross National Happiness. The highest point in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensum, standing at an elevation of 7,570 meters (24,836 feet). It is also the highest unclimbed mountain in the world, as climbing mountains above 6,000 meters has been prohibited in Bhutan since 1994 out of respect for local spiritual beliefs. Gangkhar Puensum is located in the northern part of Bhutan, on the border with China. It is part of the Himalayan mountain range and is considered one of the most challenging peaks to climb due to its remote location and difficult terrain. While Gangkhar Puensum remains unclimbed, there are several other high peaks in Bhutan that have been successfully summited by mountaineers. These include Kula Kangri (7,554 meters), Tongshanjiabu (7,513 meters), and Jejegangphugang (7,100 meters). In addition to its highest point, Bhutan also has many other impressive natural features such as deep valleys, glacial lakes, and dense forests. The country's commitment to preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage has made it a popular destination for tourists seeking an authentic and sustainable travel experience.

Bhutan Capital Longitude

The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu. The longitude of Thimphu is 89.6394° E.

Bhutan Capital Latitude

longitude The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu. Its latitude is 27.4712° N and its longitude is 89.6419° E.

Bhutan Official Languages

The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. It is a Sino-Tibetan language spoken by the majority of the population. However, there are over 19 languages spoken in Bhutan, including Nepali, Bumthangkha, and Sharchop. In addition to Dzongkha, English is also widely spoken and is the primary language used in education and government. It is considered the lingua franca of the country and is used for official purposes. Bhutan also has a strong emphasis on preserving its cultural heritage and traditions, including its languages. As a result, there are ongoing efforts to promote and preserve the use of all languages spoken in Bhutan.

Bhutan Ethnic Groups

Bhutan is a small country located in the eastern Himalayas, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The country is home to several ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs, traditions, and languages. The largest ethnic group in Bhutan is the Ngalops, who are of Tibetan origin and make up about 50% of the population. They are mainly found in western Bhutan and are known for their distinctive dress, which includes a knee-length robe called a gho for men and a long-sleeved dress called a kira for women. The Lhotshampas, also known as Nepali-Bhutanese, make up about 35% of the population. They migrated to Bhutan from Nepal in the early 20th century and are mostly concentrated in the southern part of the country. They have their own unique culture and language. The Bumthaps, Khengpas, and Kurtoeps are other significant ethnic groups in Bhutan, each with their own distinct customs and traditions. Despite their differences, all these ethnic groups coexist peacefully and contribute to the diverse and vibrant culture of Bhutan.

Bhutan Religions

Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas. The majority of its population practices Buddhism, specifically the Vajrayana sect. Buddhism was introduced to Bhutan in the 7th century and has since become deeply ingrained in the country's culture and way of life. In addition to Buddhism, there are also small populations of Hindus and Christians in Bhutan. Hinduism was brought to Bhutan by Nepali immigrants, while Christianity has been steadily growing in recent years through missionary work. Despite the diversity of religious beliefs, Bhutan is known for its peaceful coexistence and religious tolerance. The government promotes the concept of "Gross National Happiness," which includes spiritual well-being as one of its four pillars. This emphasis on happiness and harmony has helped to maintain a peaceful religious landscape in Bhutan.

Bhutan Total Area

Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas in South Asia. It has a total area of 38,394 square kilometers (14,824 square miles). Bhutan is bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and by China to the north. It is divided into 20 districts, with Thimphu as its capital and largest city. The country's terrain is mostly mountainous, with deep valleys and steep slopes. The highest peak in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensum, standing at 7,570 meters (24,836 feet) tall. The country is also home to several major rivers, including the Brahmaputra and the Amo Chhu. Bhutan's climate varies depending on altitude, with subtropical conditions in the southern lowlands and alpine conditions in the highlands. The country is known for its rich biodiversity and is considered one of the world's top ten biodiversity hotspots. Despite its small size, Bhutan is a culturally and linguistically diverse country, with over 19 different ethnic groups and languages spoken. Buddhism is the predominant religion, and it plays a significant role in the country's culture and way of life. Overall, Bhutan's small size belies its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a unique and fascinating country to explore.

Bhutan Land Area

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Bhutan Water Area

- Total area: 38,394 km^2 - Land area: 38,394 km^2 (99.9%) - Water area: 0 km^2 (0%) Bhutan is a landlocked country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and by China to the north. It has a total area of 38,394 square kilometers, making it the 136th largest country in the world. Out of this total area, Bhutan's land area is 38,394 square kilometers, which accounts for 99.9% of its total area. The remaining 0.1% (approximately 0 square kilometers) is water area. Bhutan is a mountainous country with rugged terrain and deep valleys. The country is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Gangkhar Puensum, which is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Due to its mountainous landscape, Bhutan has limited access to water bodies such as lakes and rivers. The major rivers in Bhutan include the Drangme Chhu, Wang Chhu, Sankosh River, and Torsa River. These rivers are important sources of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. In addition to its natural water resources, Bhutan also has a number of man-made lakes known as tsho or zam. These lakes are created by damming rivers for irrigation or hydroelectric power generation. Overall, Bhutan's limited water resources play a crucial role in its economy and livelihoods of its people. The country has implemented strict environmental policies to protect its water resources and ensure sustainable use for future generations.

Bhutan Total Population

: 748,931 Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and China to the north. It has a total population of 748,931 people as of 2021. The population of Bhutan is primarily made up of ethnic Bhutanese, who are predominantly of Tibetan descent. The official language is Dzongkha, but there are also several other languages spoken in the country. Bhutan is a predominantly Buddhist country, with over 75% of the population practicing Buddhism. The remaining population follows Hinduism and other indigenous religions. The population of Bhutan is largely rural, with around 60% of the population living in rural areas. The capital city, Thimphu, is the largest city in the country with a population of around 115,000 people. Bhutan has a relatively young population, with a median age of 27 years. The life expectancy at birth is around 71 years. Bhutan has a high literacy rate of over 70%, with education being free and compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 14. The country also has a strong focus on environmental conservation and sustainable development, which has contributed to its high happiness index and low carbon footprint. In recent years, Bhutan has seen a significant increase in tourism, which has contributed to its economic growth. However, the government closely regulates tourism to preserve its unique culture and environment. Overall, Bhutan's population remains small compared to other countries in the region, but it continues to experience steady growth.

Bhutan Currency Name

The Bhutanese currency is called the Ngultrum (BTN). It is divided into 100 chhertum. The symbol for the Ngultrum is Nu.

Bhutan Currency Code

, currency rate in Bhutan Bhutan country Bhutan country code BTN country code ISO3166 Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia. Located in the Eastern Himalayas, it is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east and west. Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a population of approximately 770,000 people. Its capital and largest city is Thimphu. The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN), which is divided into 100 chhertum. The ngultrum is pegged to the Indian rupee at a rate of 1:1. This means that the value of the ngultrum is equivalent to that of the Indian rupee. The BTN country code is ISO 3166-2:BT. This code is used in international transactions and identifies Bhutan as a country. It is also used in conjunction with the currency code when referring to the Bhutanese ngultrum. The current exchange rate for the Bhutanese ngultrum to US dollar is approximately 1 BTN = 0.014 USD (as of August 2021). The value of the ngultrum may fluctuate slightly due to changes in the Indian rupee, to which it is pegged. In conclusion, the currency code for Bhutan is BTN and its currency rate is pegged to the Indian rupee at a rate of 1:1. This makes it easier for visitors and traders to conduct transactions in Bhutan, as they can use either Indian rupees or Bhutanese ngultrums interchangeably.

Bhutan Currency Symbol

The currency used in Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum, with the symbol Nu or BTN. It is divided into 100 chhertum. The ngultrum is pegged to the Indian rupee at par, meaning that 1 ngultrum is equal to 1 Indian rupee. The Indian rupee is also widely accepted as legal tender in Bhutan.

Bhutan Time Zones

• UTC+06:00

Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas. The country follows Bhutan Time (BTT), which is 6 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+6). Bhutan does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains the same throughout the year. The decision to not observe daylight saving time is based on the Buddhist principles of living in harmony with nature and maintaining balance in life. As Bhutan is a predominantly agricultural society, changing the time would disrupt the natural rhythm of life and cause inconvenience to farmers. Therefore, Bhutanese people do not have to adjust their clocks twice a year and can enjoy consistent time throughout the year. This also means that Bhutan does not experience longer days during summer or shorter days during winter like other countries that observe daylight saving time. In conclusion, Bhutan follows BTT all year round and does not observe daylight saving time. This allows for a more balanced and harmonious way of life for its citizens.

Bhutan Calling Code

is +975 Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the Eastern Himalayas in South Asia. It is bordered by India to the south, east, and west, and by China to the north. The official name of Bhutan is the Kingdom of Bhutan, and its capital city is Thimphu. The country calling code for Bhutan is +975. This code is used when making international calls to Bhutan from other countries. When dialing a phone number in Bhutan from abroad, you would need to first dial the country code (+975), followed by the area code and the local phone number. The area code for Bhutan is usually 2 digits long, and it varies depending on the city or region you are calling. For example, the area code for Thimphu is 2, while the area code for Paro is 8. You can find a list of area codes for different cities in Bhutan online. If you are making a call within Bhutan, you would only need to dial the local phone number without the country code. However, if you are using a mobile phone, you may need to add a 0 before the area code. It is important to note that international calls to Bhutan may be expensive, so it is recommended to check with your phone service provider for international calling rates before making a call. In summary, the country calling code for Bhutan is +975, and it is used when making international calls to the country. The area code for different cities in Bhutan may vary, so it is important to know the specific area code when making a call

Bhutan Internet TLD

www.aveholidays.bt

How to Say "Bhutan" In Different Languages?

Bengali (Bangladesh)

ভুটান (bn-BD)

Portuguese (Brazil)

Butão (pt-BR)

Chinese (Simplified)

不丹 (zh-Hans-CN)

Arabic (Egypt)

بوتان (ar-EG)

Amharic (Ethiopia)

በሕጻን (am-ET)

French (France)

Bhoutan (fr-FR)

German (Germany)

Bhutan (de-DE)

Hindi

भूटान (hi-IN)

Indonesian

Bhutan (id-ID)

Persian (Iran)

بوتان (fa-IR)

Japanese (Japan)

ブータン (ja-JP)

Spanish (Mexico)

Bután (es-MX)

Yoruba

Bhutan (yo-NG)

Urdu

بھوٹان (ur-PK)

Filipino (Philippines)

Butan (fil-PH)

Russian (Russia)

Бутан (ru-RU)

Thai (Thailand)

ภูฏาน (th-TH)

Turkish (Turkey)

Bhutan (tr-TR)

English

Bhutan (en-US)

Vietnamese (Vietnam)

Bhutan (vi-VN)

Bhutan Popular Holidays

Kwake Khar Festival

19 January (20 January)

Prakhar Duchhen

29 January (30 January)

Punakha Drubchen

09 February (11 February)

Tamshing Annual Festival

20 February (22 February)

Losar

24 February (26 February)

Lhakhang Kora Festival

01 March (03 March)

Kingu2019s Birthday

05 March

Shing-khams Ngachoe (Monastic Debate Festival)

25 March (29 March)

Kurjey Tshechu

02 April (03 April)

Paro Tsechu

04 April (08 April)

Tango Tshering Dhuechen (Tango Bishopu2019s Annual Festival)

09 April (11 April)

Mount Mirikha Kora

10 April

Gomphu Kora Festival

11 April (13 April)

Thimphu Drubchen

15 April (17 April)

Dasho Jongdhen (Chief Abbot of Bhutanu2019s Birthday)

19 April

Minjey Kuensay Festival

20 April (22 April)

Zhabdrung Kuchoe (Death of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel)

22 April

Gom Kora Festival

25 April (27 April)

Saga Dawa

09 May (12 May)

Tshechu Goempa Festival

19 May (21 May)

Chorten Kora Festival

19 May (21 May)

Tarchokha Dukpa Tshechen Festival

22 May (24 May)

Puna-Tshechu Festival

25 May (26 May)

Keska Cholum (Cocoon Festival)

27 May (29 May)

Nuelam (Fire Festival)

06 June (08 June)

Ura Yakchoe

08 June (09 June)

Gasa Tshechu

10 June (11 June)

Changangkha Rabney

11 June (12 June)

Tamiya Dinchhen (Fire Blessing Festival)

27 June (28 June)

Drukpa Sum (Bhutan Summer Festival)

30 June (02 July)

Thimphu Druk Wadue Cheun

01 July

Zuri Duchhen

07 July (08 July)

Thangbi Mani Festival

10 July (12 July)

Tamshing Punsum Chorten Kora Festival

12 July (14 July)

Rainy Day

27 July (31 July)

Jumolhari Mountain Festival

31 July (01 August)

Lunana Festival (Snowman Festival)

03 August (05 August)

Takin Pue Festival

11 August (13 August)

Zenkhula Festival

12 August (14 August)

Lhomapariny (Victory Day)

13 August

Lhab Jampatruel (Vajra Dakini) Day

15 August (17 August)

Krag Yuel (Iron bridge gathering) Festival

18 August (20 August)

Choeton

21 August (22 August)

Phojikha Yuelungmoen Festival

13 September (15 September)

Tramberelling Festival

17 September (18 September)

Thimphu Tsechu

24 September (26 September)

Ura Yakchoe (Monastery Festival)

29 September (30 September)

Monggar Tshechu

01 October (04 October)

Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival

03 October (05 October)

Gyalyong Tshechen (Eleven Glorious Kudung Kora)

17 October (19 October)

Domkhar Tshechu Festival

17 October (18 October)

Thangbi Mani (Wall Painting) Festival

20 October (22 October)

Mongar Tshechu

20 October (23 October)

Jambay Lhakhang Drakkar (Drukchu Thorngmar) Festival

25 October (28 October)

Black Necked Crane Festival

31 October (01 November)

Guru Pema Sangay Thinley Jongne Festival

02 November (04 November)

The Royal Coronation Day of Fourth King of Bhutan

06 November

Nyungney Lhabab Duchen

21 November (23 November)

Pha Gay Moenlam & Drukpa Choepa (Lama Tsongkhapa Day)

05 December (07 December)

Druk Wangyel Festival

13 December (14 December)

National Day

17 December

Narphung (Yule) Festival

25 December (27 December)