Bhutan
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At a glance
- Region
- Southern Asia
- Capital
- Thimphu
- Population
- 792,000 (2024)
- Area
- 38,394 km²
- Languages
- Dzongkha
- Currency
- Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN), Indian rupee (INR)
- Drives on the
- left
- Calling code
- +975
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Before you go
Overview
Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia. By 2018 it recorded a population of 754,394 with an area of 38,364 km2.
The capital city, which is also the largest city, is Thimphu. The largest financial city in Phuntsholing. Thimphu is famous for its Buddhist sites. This includes the Memorial Chorten a shrine dedicated to King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, it is painted white with a gold steeple. The city is also home for Tashichho Dzong which is a government palace with gold-leaf roofs.
The Tiger’s Nest Temple
History
Bhutan was not colonized. Rather, it was controlled by the Chinese in 1720; later between 1772 and 1773 the British took over in administration. The country signed a treaty with Britain in 1910 who gained control over foreign relations. Bhutan also signed a treaty with India to abolish their interference with Bhutan’s matters except for Delhi.
Food & culture
Bhutan cultural heritage is based on Buddhism. It is expressed through the religion of Thimphu, customs, official dress code and the dances practised.
The main source of livelihood in Bhutan is agriculture. The major crops grown are maize, rice, wheat and cereal crops. The country’s cuisine contains the major food crops grown, mainly rice.
Wildlife
Takin is Bhutan’s national animal. Other animals found in the country are tigers, Asian elephants, red panda, Himalayan, musk deer, Sloth bear, Asiatic black bear, grey wolf and leopards.
Festivals & events
Tshechu, a four-day festival, where mask dances called Chams are held at the square of Tashichbo Dzong in Thimphu. It is held around September and October depending on what day corresponds with Bhutanese calendar. Other major festivals include Jambay Lhakhang Drup Festival, Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu Festival, Paro Tsheschu Festival, Matsutake Festival and Haa Summer Festival.
Things to see
The country’s most interesting places to view are National Post Office in Thimphu, Tango and Chari Monasteries, Budhaa Dordema and National Memorial Chorten.
Bhutan’s cultural heritage and biodiversity of natural forests are appealing.
The best months to visit are from October to December.
Interesting facts
Thimphu is the only city in the world without traffic lights; instead, it uses policemen standing at small decorated compartments from where they direct traffic.
Education begins at pre-Primary to Primary for 12 years, and secondary education for six years which is divided into lower, middle and higher education each with two years.
The most popular sport is archery.
The official religion in Bhutan is Buddhism.
