Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia, and in this article, we present 15 interesting facts about Bhutan. Although a small country, it holds numerous mysteries, and we will uncover a few of them here! Bhutan shares its borders with the powerful countries of China and India. It has a total population of 727,145. Bhutan is a Buddhist country. The country’s stunning Himalayas, rich culture, and vibrant festivals attract visitors worldwide. “Bhutan” translates to “Land of the Thunder Dragon” or “Druk,” proudly featured on their national flag.
In detail, let us immerse more in the exciting and fun facts about Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon!
The beautiful Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan was politically isolated until 1970. Only a limited number of tourists were allowed to enter the country. In 1971, Bhutan joined the United Nations and ended its political isolation.
In 1974, Bhutan became globally open to the world when the media covered the country’s new king’s coronation. Internet and television were only allowed in 1999. Aside from political isolation, Bhutan is also physically isolated by the Himalayas. Although visitors are allowed now, local authorities keep a tight watch and strictly regulate tourism. They follow the policy of “High value, low impact” tourism.
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Bhutan was originally a country with a monarchy. We have repeatedly seen and heard about the power struggle, politics, and corruption. It is rare for a king to give up his throne and power to the people. However, the king of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, willingly abdicated his throne for democracy. In 2005, the country held elections and established a constitutional monarchy.
King Jigme Singye Wangchuck was the fourth king of Bhutan, and he understood the need for democracy for his people. His son, the fifth king, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, supported his selfless act. In 2008, the country converted to a parliamentary monarchy from an absolute monarchy. The fifth king and his queen, Jetsun Pema, have toured various countries to establish friendly relationships. He is also credited with modernizing the country and good governance. The current king of Bhutan is Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
Did you know that Bhutan measures Gross National Happiness (GNH) to measure the country’s prosperity instead of Gross Domestic Product (GDP)? Well, now you do.
Bhutan is known as the happiest country on earth. The country emphasizes keeping people happy and content. The philosophy of Gross National Happiness was introduced in the 1970s, and Bhutan is the first country in the world to do so. The GNH measures physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This makes Bhutan a unique country that emphasizes people’s happiness more than economic prosperity. In 2022, the country’s Gross National Happiness was 0.781. Even during the COVID-19 period, the country saw an increase in GNH. Bhutan’s government follows the idea of Gross National Happiness, focusing on the well-being of its citizens.
Aside from being the world’s happiest country, Bhutan is the only country in the world that is carbon-negative. With the development of industries, Bhutan’s carbon dioxide emission is 2.2 million tonnes annually. However, the country’s dense and lush forests help absorb carbon dioxide and leave it negative.
About 70% of Bhutan is covered by dense forest, making it one of the world’s greenest countries. The Constitution also mandates that the forest cover 60% of the country. As a result, Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country.
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Bhutan may be small, but it has its own distinct identity and culture, and the Bhutanese are proud of it. Bhutanese men wear “Gho,” and women wear “Kira.” Many Bhutanese wear the national dress daily, whether attending formal events, visiting monasteries, or even shopping around. However, wearing the national dress during formal events, visiting government offices, or entering a dzong (ancient fortress) is mandatory.
“Gho” is a knee-length robe tied to the waist with a belt. Men wear knee-high socks and traditional leather shoes. Meanwhile, the “Kira” women wear a blouse, skirt, and jacket. The traditional clothes of Bhutan show the bright and unique culture of its people. The national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is an endangered wildlife with a deep cultural significance. Similarly, Dzongkha is Bhutan’s official and national language.
Bhutan has a vibrant culture and distinct architecture. Beautiful and ancient architecture is in every corner, including temples, monasteries, and dzongs like Punakha dzong throughout the country. The country’s distinct architecture features multi-colored wood, multi-tiered roofs, carved wooden frames, and whitewashed walls.
As Buddhism is followed in the country, you can see art forms of Buddhas, auspicious symbols, religious motifs, etc. The monuments are built with stones, timber, and mud. Moreover, these ingredients are locally sourced. The country also focuses on eco-friendly building practices. No wonder Bhutan has one of the world’s best-preserved heritages.
Yes, you read it correctly. Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is the only capital in the world without traffic lights. Bhutan is a tiny country with a population of just over 700,000. The citizens also prefer traffic policemen’s directions to traffic lights, so the authorities removed the traffic lights.
An estimated 20,000 vehicles run daily, but astonishingly, no accidents have occurred. It shows the discipline and caution of the people in Bhutan. Furthermore, there is no problem with traffic jams in Bhutan.
We discussed Bhutan’s distinct culture and architecture, so let us discuss Bhutan’s national sport, archery. The local name for the sport is “D.” The sport is deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture and was acknowledged in 1971.
Participants wear colorful attire while playing the sport. Similarly, Bhutanese enjoy it with loud cheers and high spirits. The Yangphel Open Archery Tournament is held annually, and visitors can also enjoy Bhutanese’s most beloved sport.
Let us come to the national dish of Bhutan, the famous Ema Datshi. It is a stew dish that consists of shimmered chilies with melted cheese as “Ema” means chilies and “Datshi” means cheese. The dish’s unique blend of spicy chilies and savory cheese creates a unique flavor.
Bhutanese consume Ema Datshi almost daily. But the dish also has a special place during special occasions, festivals, and celebrations. Over time, the local food in Bhutan has also changed and developed. Thus, one can find different variations of Ema Datshi. But the authentic stew Ema Datshi is special in every Bhutanese’s heart.
The Grand Himalayas also span across Bhutan. Similarly, there are 45 snow-covered mountains in Bhutan, the highest of which is Mount Gangkhar Puensum (7,570 meters). It is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world and the highest mountain in Bhutan. While most of the world’s tallest mountains have been conquered by mountaineers, the mountain remains untouched.
Bhutan began mountaineering expeditions in 1983. However, Gangkhar Puensum has yet to be conquered. Four expeditions were held to conquer the peak, all of which failed. Bhutan banned mountain climbing over 6,000 meters in 1994 and banned mountaineering in 2003.
The happiest country in the world is also the safest, with the lowest crime rate. There are very few crimes compared to other countries, and the crime rate is also relatively low. The government regulates tourism strictly, and guides are mandatory for all tours. Hence, traveling in Bhutan is a safe experience.
The locals are also warm and friendly. The majority of the citizens follow Buddhism, so the locals preach about love and compassion. Violent cases are very rare in Bhutan.
The Taktshang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a famous tourist destination in Bhutan. The massive monastery sits on the cliffside of Upper Paro. It is at an elevation of 3,180 meters. The monastery has a deep religious significance with fascinating folklore to the people of Bhutan. According to the lore, Guru Rinpoche flew here on the back of a tigress and meditated in the cave. Similarly, the monastery is historically significant, as Padmasambhava practiced Vajrayana and taught it here.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery is also a beautiful piece of architecture. The monastery’s design also shows the skill and creativity of Bhutanese artists. It has all the distinct architectural features, four main complexes, and a larger prayer wheel. Hike to the monastery is also a beautiful journey. You will have to hike for two hours through the pine forest. The peaceful atmosphere of the monastery gives a sense of spiritual calm and offers amazing views.
Many tourists find it amusing and surprising to see the phallus symbols in temples in Bhutan. The symbol symbolizes good luck, protection, and fertility. It is an age-old tradition that the Bhutanese people believe wards off evil spirits. Therefore, it is not uncommon to see the phallus symbols in the Bhutanese temples.
The most famous fertility temple in the country is the Chimi Lhakhang temple. In 1499, the temple was built by Drukpa Kunley, a Buddhist saint famously known as the Divine Madman. Locals and visitors visit the temple to pray for good fortune and fertility blessings. One can witness the Divine Madman’s unorthodox teachings through the phallic symbols on paintings and carvings on the walls and doors. It is one of the must-visit places in Bhutan.
The Paro Airpot is Bhutan’s only international airport. It is also one of the most dangerous airports in the world, and only eight pilots are qualified to fly there. Steep mountains surround the airport, and there is only one runway. The Himalayan weather is unpredictable, and landing at the airport requires a skillful pilot.
Due to the difficult geography, flights are limited at the Paro Airport. Moreover, landing here is only possible during daylight. To land at one of the world’s most dangerous airports is a thrilling experience. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular landscapes and Himalayan range views as they land at the airport.
Bhutan is a small country with an abundance of vibrant festivals and celebrations. It celebrates over 25 festivals, bringing families and communities together for joyous occasions. These festivals also reflect the country’s cultural and spiritual richness.
Among the various festivals, Paro Tsechu and Thimphu Tsechu are the most famous ones. These festivals are celebrated with masked dances, music, fire displays, prayers, ritual ceremonies, etc. Similarly, the locals celebrate also the festival with rhythmic dances, folk music, and telling folk tales. The country’s royal family also makes appearances during special events. Hence, Bhutan offers an incredible cultural experience.
Bhutan is one of the safest countries in the world. It is a small Buddhist country, and citizens follow Buddha’s teachings of love, compassion, and harmony. Therefore, the crime rate is very low here.
The government of Bhutan also strictly regulates tourism. Licensed guides guide all tours. Therefore, it makes traveling and touring in the country a safe experience. The country’s political climate is also stable, allowing you to explore Bhutan’s best without hassle. Although Bhutan is safe for visitors, they must take proper precautions. During your trip to Bhutan, make sure you follow the rules and regulations when you visit Bhutan. Also, be respectful towards the local culture and people.
If you want to travel to Bhutan, you must know about the visa process. Bhutan requires a visa for all foreign visitors except those from India, the Maldives, and Bangladesh. The Department of Immigration, the Royal Government of Bhutan, and the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs issue the visas. You must book your tour through a local tour operator who will handle the visa process, as you cannot apply for the visa yourself.
When applying for a Bhutanese visa, you must provide a passport with at least six months’ validity before the expiry date. The visa application is done through a digital submission, and you will receive an electronic document. You must provide the visa verification when you check in for your Bhutan travel flight. The visa costs USD 40 per person and can only be obtained after full payment. Likewise, visitors must also be on a tour package from a registered tour operator to enter the country. Usually, the visa clearance duration is within five days.
Bhutan remains a mystery to the outside world. We hope these 15 interesting Bhutan facts illuminate the world’s happiest country. The country was isolated for centuries, and it has helped Bhutan to preserve its rich culture and traditions. Thousands of visitors are attracted to the country annually by the beautiful landscapes and age-old vibrant culture. Some of the fantastic facts about Bhutan mentioned above are a must-know about Bhutan.
Bhutan prioritizes the happiness of its citizens. Moreover, the king abdicated from his throne to bring democracy to the country. Very few countries are as peaceful and harmonious as Bhutan. From the above facts, you already know that Bhutan is unlike any other country. Bhutan is known as a world example for its eco-friendly lifestyle and focus on responsible development and tourism. The Bhutanese people are also some of the most friendliest and warm people. We hope you enjoyed these fascinating facts about Bhutan!
