Government and Politics

The Monarchy:

After 300 years of Dual Theocratic Civil Government, the first hereditary monarchy was established in 1907. Locally addressed as Druk Gyalpo – the King, is both head of State and Government. The first Druk Gyalpo, Ugyen Wangchuck, who reigned from 1907 to 1926, unified the nation, established friendly relations with British India, and set his political agenda. There had been three hereditary monarchs from 1907 – 199: Jigme Wangchuck (1926-52), Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1952-72), and Jigme Singye Wangchuck (since 1972). December 17th is the National Day to commemorate Ugyen Wangchuck`s enthronement as the first King in 1907.

Established as an absolute monarchy in 1907, Bhutan first moved toward a constitutional monarchy in 1953 with the foundation of its National Assembly. In 1963 the monarch`s title was changed from “His Highness” to “His Majesty the Druk Gyalpo” in a move to assert a distinct Bhutanese identity. The Druk Gyalpo retained veto power over actions of the National Assembly until 1969 when the National Assembly, following his 1968 decree, became the Kingdom’s sovereign institution. After 1969, the National Assembly could remove the Druk Gyalpo through a No-Confidence Vote.

To secure the Wangchuck Dynasty, should the Druk Gyalpo be dethroned through a No-Confidence Vote, the Wangchuck family member next in line of succession would automatically take the throne. Also beginning in 1969, at the insistence of the Druk Gyalpo a “Democratic Monarchy” was to be determined through triennial votes of confidence in the Druk Gyalpo`s rule.

In 1972 Jigme Singye Wangchuck succeeded his father, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had involved the young prince in the work of government and had appointed him crown prince and Ponlop of Tongsa only a few months before dying. After his accession to the throne in 1972, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck was formally enthroned in June 1974.

In 1988, the Druk Gyalpo married the four sister Queens in a public ceremony in Punakha. After enthronement in 1972, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck became most concerned in economic development and traveled extensively throughout the country. He also has traveled a great deal outside of Bhutan, attending international meetings and personally representing his country. A young, vigorous head of State unafraid to break from the bureaucracy and constraints of his office–including his trips to the countryside where he could be seen “serving the people”. King Jigme Singye Wangchuck presented the monarchy as progressive and symbolic of national unity.

The Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck introduced Democratic System of governance in 2008 and the Crown Prince enthroned as the Fifth King.

Bhutan History

The recorded history dates as far back as the 6th century A.D., while the real historical period started with the introduction of Buddhism from 7th century A.D. Since then, Buddhism has largely shaped the history of Bhutan and the way of life of its people.
The geographical situation kept the world at bay and together with the policy of isolationism this small kingdom was never colonized which is a matter of great pride to the Bhutanese. Its ancient history, which is a mixture of the oral tradition and classical literature, tells of a largely self-sufficient population that had limited contact with the outside world until the turn of the century.
The earliest notable relics visible of the history of Bhutan, today, are the two monasteries, the Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang which were built in the 7th Century A.D. little is known about Bhutan of that period.
But it was not until the visit of Guru Rimpochey (also known as Padma Sambhava) in 747 A.D., that Buddhism took firm root in the country. It is believed that Guru Rimpochey came flying on the back of a tiger and landed in Taktsang, Paro, where the Taktsang monastery, one of the most revered sacred sites and the most distinguished religious and historical icon of Bhutan, stands today. The Kurjey Lhakhang in Bumthang is another important revered site of pilgrimage where Guru Rimpochey had meditated, subdued the evil spirits and left the imprint of his body on a rock.
Another important chapter in the history of Bhutan evolved in the first half of the 13th century when the spiritual master, Phajo Drugom Zhingpo arrived, the precursor of the Drukpa Kagyu tradition of Mahayana Buddhism which ultimately gained pre-eminence in the country. Many saints and religious figures, over the years, helped shape Bhutan’s history and develop its religion of which the Tertons (Treasure discoverers) played an important role who were pre-destined to unearth the ters (relics) hidden for posterity by Guru Rimpoche and other saints. Among the Tertons, Pema Lingpa, born in the Tang valley of Bumthang (central Bhutan), occupies the most important place in the Bhutanese history. His discovery of ters from a lake called Mebartsho (The Burning Lake) in Bumthang is the most famous event. He not only discovered religious texts and arte-facts but also composed dances and created arts which have become one of the most important constituents of the cultural heritage of Bhutan.
With the arrival of Shabdrung Rimpochey (the precious jewel at whose feet one submits) opened the most dynamic era in the history of Bhutan. The religious and secular powers were not clearly delineated until the 17 Century when Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the great leader of the Drukpa school of Mahayana Buddhism, established the dual system of government–the temporal and theocratic–with Je Khenpo (chief abbot) as the religious head and the temporal leader known as the Desi. He was not only a great spiritual personality and a statesman but also left his indelible legacy as a great architect and a builder. The Shabdrung constructed numerous Dzongs, monasteries, and religious institutions bringing people from all walks of life under one faith and firmly instituted Drukpa Kagyu as the state religion.
The first Dzong that he built, Simtokha Dzong in 1627, stands majestically as one of the sentinels of the Bhutanese identity, a few miles away from present day Thimphu.
The Shabdrung’s dual system of government, ruled by 54 Desis and 60 Je Khenpos, steered Bhutan from 1651 until the birth of the Wangchuck dynasty and establishment of hereditary Monarchy in 1907.

Art & Architecture

Art

Bhutan’s arts and crafts reflect the unique spirit and identity of the Himalayan kingdom.The art of Zorig Chosum – or the thirteen arts and crafts of Bhutan – remains very much alive today. They include carpentry, blacksmithing, weaving, sculpting and many of the crafts described below. There are two institutes of Zorig Chosum where these traditional arts and crafts are being taught today – one in the capital, Thimphu, and the other in Trashi Yangtse in eastern Bhutan.
The arts and crafts continue to thrive despite a small tourist market. Much of this is due to the government’s support and emphasis on the preservation of culture and tradition.

Textiles

Bhutan’s textiles are an integral part of daily life in this Himalayan kingdom. Gifts of cloth are offered at birth and death, and during auspicious occasions, weddings, and when someone gets promoted to higher level in his/her profession. Textiles are fashioned into clothing, crafts, and various kinds of containers.

Bhutanese textiles are renowned for their distinctive patterns inspired by nature. Each region has a specialised design. Bumthang, for example, is known for its vegetable dyed wool weaves called yathra, and exquisite pure silk weavings, Kishuthara, are famous in the eastern region of Lhuentse where it originates.

Weavers, mostly women in remote communities, pride themselves on being able to create textiles that reflect a visually stunning combination of colour, texture, pattern and composition. Bhutan is holding on to this traditional skill despite rapid modernisation.

Bhutanese textiles are now prized among collectors as a rare art-form that is being practiced only among a very small community in the remote Kingdom of Bhutan.

Paintings

Most Bhutanese art, including painting, are religious by nature. And because it is the process of creating the paintings that is important, most traditional painting is anonymous without an artist’s signature.

The Bhutanese tradition of painting is called lhazo. This refers to all types of painting including traditional paintings, called thangkhas, which are scroll paintings of Buddhist iconography executed in mineral paints.
Bhutanese paintings of religious and other symbolic motifs also adorn houses in Bhutan, both inside the home and on exterior walls.

Thangkha style painting is highly stylised and strict geometric proportions are followed.

Sculptures

Bhutanese sculptors are well known in the Himalayan region. Many famous sculptors have been, and still are, making clay statues of Buddhist figures for important monasteries in the region.
Clay is the traditional material for local sculpture, known as jinzob. The art is expressed in statues and ritual objects and can be seen in the numerous monasteries throughout Bhutan. Many of Bhutan’s monasteries boast of exceedingly fine central statues that sometimes rise up as high as three floors.
The art of sculpture is being kept alive at the Institute of Zorig Chosum where it is taught as a core subject.

Paper Making

The Bhutanese have always used their own handmade paper called deysho. Made of the bark of the daphne plant, this paper is used for the printing of religious texts, traditional books as well as for wrapping gifts. It is an extremely durable paper that is fairly resistant to insects.

Traditional paper making continues as an additional activity on the farm to earn some extra income for the paper makers.

A few paper factories have been established and some of them are now producing ornamental art paper with the inclusion of flower petals, and leaves, and other materials. Vegetable dyed paper is also being made for special occasions.

Wood Carving

The carving of wood is an ancient craft that continues to play an important role in modern Bhutan. The numerous prayer flags that flutter across the vast ridges of Bhutan are all printed from carved wooden blocks.
Parzo, or the craft of carving is not restricted only to wood. Carving is also done on slate and stone. Woodcarving is, however, the most common. It is used for making wooden blocks to print traditional books that are still much highly sought after today.

The wood is usually collected and seasoned for more than a year before it is carved. Bhutan’s artisans are also well known for their highly skilled wooden carvings which adorn pillars and windows in monasteries, offices and public buildings.

Sword Making

The art of sword making falls under the tradition of garzo (or blacksmithing) which includes the making of all metal implements including knives, chains, darts etc.
Today, ceremonial swords are now a highly specialised craft. They are still being made for the gentry or senior officials who have been ceremoniously honoured. Ceremonial swords are worn on all special occasions while almost every Bhutanese male, even children, wear a traditional short knife called the dudzom.

History has it that Bhutan’s best known sword maker was the treasure discoverer, Terton Pema Lingpa, from central Bhutan.

Boot Making

For ceremonial occasions, it is not uncommon to see Bhutanese men wear traditional boots made of cloth that is handstitched, embroided and appliquéd in Bhutanese motifs. The different colours used on the boot signify the rank and status of the person; hence, Ministers wear orange, senior officials wear red and the laity wears white.

There has been a revival of traditional boot making in recent years. Popularised by the emphasis on preservation of culture and tradition, boot making is also a subject taught at the Institute of Zorig Chosum. There are also shorter boots that reach above the ankle for women. Traditional Bhutanese boots are a must for formal events, and lend a ceremonial air to such occasions. Many villagers and retired monks also wear simpler traditional boots without the fancy appliqué work.

Bamboo Craft

The art of working with cane and bamboo is called thazo. Certain regions in Bhutan are famed for its bamboo and cane craft.

Rural communities in Zhemgang and Trongsa produce a variety of crafts with these materials. They include the distinctive bamboo hat called the belo that is still popular with the people in the area, and the still popular Bhutanese “Tupperware” basket called the bangchung.

The popular folk craft also include baskets of varying sizes for the home and for travel on horseback, and containers for carrying local drinks , the homebrew called arra.

Bow and Arrow Making

With archery as a national sport, the making of bamboo bows and arrows are picking up momentum once again particularly just before the annual national archery competition.
Many of the craftsmen look out for specific types of bamboo and mountain reeds to be fashioned into bows and arrows. These are picked at particular seasons, whittled down to size and expertly fashioned into the bow and arrow that has enabled Bhutanese men and youth to play a unique form of archery over the centuries. A well made set of bows and arrows are instrumental to a good game of archery.

Jewelry

Traditional Bhutanese jewelry is usually silver and gold jewelry with intricate motifs. They include heavy bracelets, komas or fasteners for the traditional women’s dress, the kira, loop ear rings set with turquoise, and necklaces of the most valued stones in the Himalayan region – antique turquoise, coral beads and the zhi stone.

The zhi stone is a highly prized stone in Bhutan and among Himalayan Buddhists who believe in its protective powers. The stone is distinguished by its black and white spiral designs called “eyes”. The zhi is believed to be an agate which were made into the zhi bead. There are now many replicas of the ancient zhi stone available in the market.

The best place to see Bhutanese jewelry is during a local festival where women turn up in their finery and jewelry. Some of them are draped with the traditional necklaces of coral, the size of small stones.

Architecture

The architecture of Bhutan is one of the Kingdom’s most visible distinctive features. The massive Dzongs
(fortresses) with its upward sloping walls, the ancient monasteries and the humble farm house stand out as an important part of the country’s landscape.

Each valley in Bhutan retains its own architectural character in terms of the type of building material used, ranging from mud to stone, and the special ambience of its most famous monasteries and Dzongs.

Monasteries

The more than 2,000 monasteries in Bhutan is a testimony of the spiritual nature of the country and its people. Everywhere you look, there is a monastery atop a rocky crag, or on remote hillsides and in the farthest horizon. Some of these are ancient monasteries now requiring restoration but which are, nonetheless, spiritually important for the communities that live around them. Almost every major monastery provides the spiritual centre for important festivals and ceremonies for village communities. They are also often the focal point of cultural, secular and administrative and religious events.

A monastery is distinguished by a maroon band near the top of the building and some of them have a golden pinnacle or “sertog” sitting atop the building. Some of these monasteries also house numerous monks who study in an educational institute built around the monastery. Hermitages are also built around or near monasteries.

Chortens (Stupas)

Thousands of chortens or stupas dot the countryside in Bhutan. These structures are symbolic of a receptacle for offering in Buddhism, and are an indication of the deep faith of the people, as many new chortens are being built even today.

There are eight different forms or styles of chortens in Bhutan including one in which there is an archway over a trail like one near the Wangduephrodang Dzong. It is believed that travelers gain merit when they pass through such a structure.

Another style is the mani dungkhor or a chorten which houses a large prayer wheel. This is usually built over a water channel or near a stream to enable the water to turn the wooden turbine of the prayer wheel.

An important chorten in the capital is the National Memorial Chorten dedicated to the memory of the third king of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The chorten contains magnificent examples of Vajrayana Buddhist art in the form of statues and wall paintings

Traditional Houses

Bhutanese traditional houses are a delight to see as one travels throughout Bhutan. The materials used for house building range from mud blocks, rammed earth, stone, and now reinforced concrete in urban areas.

Traditional rural homes are generally large, with a distinctive roof which provides an attic area for drying crops. The most important room in the house is the altar room where guests are often hosted; otherwise most rooms are more functional.

The traditional slate and timber shingle roofs are also giving way to CGI steel roofing. But one dominant character remain, that of chillies drying on the roof of almost every traditional house in the chilli season.
The shingled roof, the white washed walls and painted wooden windows, farm houses blend harmoniously into the natural landscape of the country.

Traditional cantilever bridges

Bhutan’s traditional cantilever bridges are a graceful addition to local architecture and the natural landscape. These largely wooden bridges are built with a series of interlocking wooden structures to form a central bridge. These ancient bridges often span a river so wide that the bridge becomes an engineering marvel.

Many of these bridges are essential passageways for people, horses and other animals. There is a beautiful cantilever bridge in the capital, behind the Tashichhodzong. And to retain the grace of the past, a new cantilever bridge has been built across the Thimphu river right next to the town’s vegetable market. The Paro Dzong is also complemented by an old cantilever bridge that gives it an air of bygone days.

Geography of Bhutan

Bhutan – Landlocked country is situated in the eastern Himalayas with pristine environment. It is bordered for 470 kilometers by Tibet region of China to the north and northwest for 605 kilometers by India’s states of Sikkim to the west, West Bengal to the southwest, Assam to the south and southeast, and Arunachal Pradesh to the east. Sikkim divides Bhutan from Nepal.

Bhutan stretches 300 kms in length and 170 kms in breadth thus forming a total of 46,500 square kilometers. About 70 percent of Bhutan is covered with forests; 10 percent covered with perpetual snow and glaciers. This leaves 9 percent for human habitation. The rest for pastures, meadows, barren rocky areas or scrubland.

Early British visitors to Bhutan reported the high mountains lost in the clouds altogether a scene of extraordinary magnificence and sublimity. Bhutan has the most rugged mountain terrains in the world with elevations ranging from 160m in the south to 7,000m in the north. Bhutan’s highest peak at 7,554m is Kulha Gangri bordering China; Jumo Lhari overlooking the Chumbi Valley is 7,314m; nineteen other peaks exceed 7,000m.

The snowcapped Great Himalayan Range over 7,500m runs along the Bhutan-China border. The northern region consists of glaciated mountain peaks with arctic climate at the highest elevations. Watered by snow-fed rivers, alpine valleys in this region provide pasturage for livestock tended by a sparse population of migratory nomads.

The Inner Himalayas are southward spurs of the Greater Himayalan Range. The Black Mountains, in central Bhutan, form a watershed between two major river systems, the Mo Chhu and the Drangme Chhu (River). Peaks in the Black Mountains range between 1,500m to 2,700m, and the fast-flowing rivers have carved out spectacular gorges in the lower mountain valleys. The woodlands of the central region provide most of Bhutan’s valuable forest production.

In the south, foothills descending into the subtropical Duars in India are covered with dense deciduous forest, alluvial lowland river valleys, and mountains that reach to around 1,500m.

The Duars abuts the Himalayan foothills, has rugged, sloping terrain and dry porous soil with dense vegetation and abundant wildlife. Rice and other crops are grown on the plains and mountainsides up to 1,200m.

Seasons in Bhutan

Climatic conditions vary across the kingdom. While at one point one might wear T-shirts and shorts which need to be changed to warmer clothes within a few hours of travel. Nevertheless, temperature will never soar above 35°C and 15°C during the day in summer and winter respectively. The temperature might go below sub-zero during nights in some places in winter (Dec-Feb). However, the day temperature may not go beyond 30°C in places which you will travel most. Snowfalls are unpredictable. Thimphu, the capital city did receive snow in 2013. Snow covered mountains are a usual view in winter and the beginning of spring (Mar-May) season. The Monsoon begins in June, ends in September and receives rainfall ~ 350cms especially in the Southern regions.

Spring

The Spring Season months are March, April & May. One of the best times to visit Bhutan is in Spring. During the season, splashes of colors rival the multicolored prayer flags on high passes. As elsewhere, the mother-nature comes into full life with flowers in bloom wherever the journey take place. Most major festivals take place during the spring.

Summer

The Summer Season months are June, July & August. One of the most pleasant times to be in Bhutan is in Summer. Rains fall during the summer season and it is considered wettest season, but the annual rainfalls are tolerable. Being a mountainous country, sometimes incessant rainfall over a week cause minor landslides but cause no major road blocks. There are few Summer Festivals & events.

Autumn

The Autumn Season months are September, October & November. Autumn season is most pleasant with favorable weather and crispy cool Himalayan breeze sweeping throughout the country. It is also the end of farming season, thus, freeing the rural population to participate in the annual festivals and community events.

Winter

The Winter Season month are December, January & February. Winter months are comparatively cold but not severe and fierce winters. While Bhutan has high mountains under perpetual snow cover, the snow fall in the river basins are rare where most settlements exist. Thimphu, the capital city at 2822m hardly receives one or two light snow falls during the winter. There are few Winter Festivals.

Bhutan Flora & Fauna

Bhutan has a rich and varied biological diversity. Very few countries in the world match Bhutans biological diversity and fewer still have taken such strong steps to conserve their biodiversity. Bhutan, for example, has its own Biodiversity Action Plan. The country ranks amongst the top ten percent of highest species density (species richness per unit area) in the world, and it has the largest proportion of land under protected areas.
Some 26.23% of the countrys area is protected through National Parks. In addition, a further 9% has been declared as Biological Corridors, connecting protected areas, and there are a series of Conservation Areas intended to protect important conservation sites outside the formal Protected Areas system. As a result, more than 35% of the countrys area is under the protection of some form of conservation management. This system serves as a globally unique system for in situ conservation of biodiversity.
Regarding diversity at the species level, inventories have indicated that there are more than 5,500 species of vascular plants, more than 770 species of avifauna and more than 165 species of mammals, with many species being endemic to Bhutan.
Bhutan is a botanists paradise. One of the ancient names given to Bhutan was (Southern Valley of Medicinal Herbs.) Rhododendrons, junipers, magnolias, carnivorous plants, rare orchids, blue poppy (the national flower), edelweiss, gentian, medicinal plants, Daphne, giant rhubarb, high-altitude plants, tropical trees, pine and oak abound here.
Among the rare and exotic faunas found in Bhutan the golden langur, red pandas, black-necked crane, snow leopard, takin, musk deer, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan marten, tiger, hornbills, pheasants, mountain goats and timid blue sheep are some.

Travels Within Bhutan

Bhutan has relatively a well developed road networks. Travelling by land in Bhutan is an adventure. The country being mountainous, steep ascends and descends are virtual characteristics of road travel in Bhutan. The breathtaking scenic beauty every few kilometres of travel however compensates the travellers.

Drivers in Bhutan know their topography well and are very cautious and careful making your road journey most enjoyable and safe.

Tourist Transport:

Medium sized Coaches (20-22 Seats) and small Coaches (8-12 Seats), Passenger Cars, Tucson, Santa Fe, Prado & Land Cruiser are normally used for the tourists depending on the number of Pax in a group.

Dzongs of Bhutan

Dzongs in Bhutan are like the great fortresses, citadels or castles in Europe. Dzongs are among the most outstanding examples of Bhutanese architecture and prominent landmarks in each District. They were first introduced into Bhutan around the 12th century. Owned by great, powerful families, they were used for centuries as royal palaces, from where local lords administered their lands.

To consolidate and exercise the power of the state, Ngawang Namgyel had a new set of fortresses build in the first half of the 17th century. They were to be regional outposts where the central power administered the country and defended it against possible intrusion from beyond its borders. But in addition to these administrative and military functions, Ngawang Namgyel added those of a monastery. Because of this, most of the Dzongs played an important role in the religious life of the local inhabitants. While Bhutan’s Dzongs recall those to be found in Tibet, the degree of architectural perfection is quite specific to the country. Reflecting a certain conception of religion, society and spatial organization, the Dzongs are a symbol of the history and long independence of Bhutan. They stand proudly in strategic positions, at the entrance to valleys, at the summits of hills or the confluence of rivers. Most of them are built according to the same plan, following the example of Simtokha Dzong in Thimphu which dates to 1629. Practically all were laid out in the same way, forming a rough parallelogram divided into several interior courtyards. The walls are built of stone and beaten mud, while the upper storey’s make considerable use of wood.

The massive stone walls risk steeply, leaning slightly inwards up to the solid roof, giving the impression of an impregnable stronghold. Inside these great outer walls, the courtyards are generally paved with large stone slabs. In the middle is a massive tower known as the Utshe (Pinnacle). The upper floors of Utshe contain temples. The buildings around the courtyards, abutting against the outer walls, are usually half-timbered. They rise two or three storeys, with galleries, balconies and arcades. Behind the arcades are the monk’s quarters and administrative offices. A precise internal boundary separates the religious buildings from the secular ones. However, this separation cannot be seen in the actual structural design of the buildings. Taschichhodznog is the largest and most modern Dzongs in Bhutan. It was rebuilt in the 1960s using traditional building techniques and materials. Nevertheless the building has several features that distinguish it from the conventional Dzongs. While a Dzong at present day houses District Administrative functionaries, the temples or Lhakhangs are places of reverence.

While half of the Dzongs are used by the monastic body – the other half is used for District Administration functionaries. The monks enliven the Dzong in the morning and evening with the magical, distant sound of rituals and prayers. But it is at the time of the Tshechu (Annual Religious Festival) that the Dzong really comes to life. The Dzongs in Bhutan have their own festivals once a year, celebrated with sacred Mask Dances.

People & Language

People

Bhutan is a land-locked country with mountainous terrain. The Bhutanese are divided into many ethnic groups such as the Ngalops – Western Region, Sharshops – Eastern Region, Brokpas & Layaps – Highlanders, Nepalese Origins – Southern Region each with their distinct language and dress. There are 14 main different different dialects are spoken even today. The Highlanders still live a nomadic life depend on their livestock. According to the latest census recorded in 2012 Bhutan has a population of 700,000. Thmphu is perhaps the smallest capital in the world with an estimated population of 100,000.

Bhutan’s society being made up of four broad groups: the Ngalop in the western regiona, the Sharchop in the eastern region and Nepalese origins in the southern region are basically influenced by geographical division. The Ngalop (a term thought to mean the earliest risen or first converted) are people of Tibetan origin who migrated to Bhutan as early as the 9th century.

Language

The National language of Bhutan is Dzongkha and literally Dzongkha means the language spoken in the Dzongs and administrative centers in all the districts of Bhutan. But the Dzongkha was the language spoken by the people of Western Bhutan.

The Drukpas form the major chunk with nearly 67% of the total population. They are of two groups. Those related to the Tibetans speak Dzongka. The other major language is Tsangla in the east with 11 different dialects. The Nepalis form 20% of the total Bhutanese people. Formerly the second largest peoples group after the Tsangla, they inhabited the southern region mostly. However, lately due to disagreements over government policies they have moved back to Nepal, their country of origin. Indians, Tibetans, Sikkimese, Sherpas, etc., form the remaining 13% of the population.
The unity of the Bhutanese people and independence of the country is under control of the state religion, Buddhism. There is very limited religious freedom, as government and social pressure do not allow for public expressions of other faiths.

Buddhism is followed by 70% of the population, while Hinduism is practiced by 25%. The rest are either Muslims or Christians.

Religion

The Kingdom of Bhutan is the only country in the world where Buddhism is the official religion and is endorsed by the government. To ensure the perpetuation of Buddhism, normally, one son from each family attends monastic school. The Buddhist faith plays a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its people. It permeates all strands of secular life, bringing with it a reverence for the land and its well-being. Annual festivals (Tshechu and Dromchoes) are spiritual occasions in each district and are dedicated to either Guru Rimpoche or other deities.

Mahayana Buddhism was the state religion, and Buddhists comprised about 70% of the population in the early 1990s. Although originating from Tibetan Buddhism, Bhutanese Buddhism differs significantly in its rituals, liturgy, and monastic organization. The government through annual subsidies to monasteries, shrines, monks, and nuns has long supported the state religion financially. Throughout Bhutan, stupas or Chortens line the roadside commemorating a place where Guru Rimpoche or another Shabdrung may have stopped to meditate. Prayers flags are even more common as fluttering on long poles they maintain constant communication with the heavens.

The majority of Bhutan’s Buddhists are followers of the Drukpa sub-sect of the Kargyupa School, one of the four major schools of Tibetan Buddhism. The Kargyupa literally means a concept tying the realization of emptiness to freedom from reincarnation. This school is a combination of the Theravada (monastic), Mahayana (messianic), and Tantrayana (apocalyptic or esoteric techniques of meditation and a repertoire of sacred icons, phrases, gestures, and rituals that easily lend themselves to practical interpretation) forms of Buddhism. Tibetan Buddhism holds that salvation can be achieved through the intercession of compassionate bodhisattvas (enlightened ones or deities which occupy the center of a richly polytheistic universe of subordinate deities) who have delayed their own entry into a state of nibbana, or nirvana, enlightenment and selfless bliss, to save others. Emphasis is put on the doctrine of the cosmic Buddha, of whom the historical Buddha – Siddhartha Gautama (563 BC- 483 B.C) is only one of the many manifestations.

Monasteries and convents are common throughout Bhutan. Both monks and nuns keep their heads shaved and wear distinguishing maroon robes. To bring Buddhism to the people, numerous symbols and structures are employed. Religious monuments, prayer walls, prayer flags, and sacred mantras carved in stone hillsides can still be found all over Bhutan. Among the religious monuments are Chorten, the Bhutanese version of the Indian stupas. They range from simple rectangular “house” Chorten to complex edifices with ornate steps, doors, domes, and spires. Some are decorated with the Buddha’s eyes that see in all directions simultaneously.
The earth, brick, or stone structures commemorate deceased kings, Buddhist saints, venerable monks, and other notables, and sometimes serve as reliquaries. Prayer walls are made of laid or piled stone and inscribed with Tantric prayers. Prayers printed with woodblocks on cloth are made into tall, narrow, colorful prayer flags, which are then mounted on long poles and placed both at holy sites and at dangerous locations to ward off demons and to benefit the spirits of the dead. To help propagate the faith, itinerant monks travel from village to village carrying portable shrines with many small doors, which open to reveal statues and images of the Buddha, bodhisattvas, and notable lamas.

The royal family alternately practices the Nyingmapa and Kargyupa forms of Buddhism.

Traditional Textile & Souvenirs

Constrained by limited time, if the visitors cannot venture further from Thimphu, the capital city also has a wide range of Bhutan`s most exquisite hand-woven textile shops. If the visitors enjoy collecting local handicrafts and textiles, a visit to the Craft Bazaar would a good opportunity. The country`s famous high quality textiles made from the art of Bhutanese weaving mainly come from the eastern part of Bhutan. Woven textiles are usually dominated by women and not only does it serve in preservation of age old culture, but also fulfills the economic needs of the weaving women. Communities with their own unique textile material have unique floral patterns.

Bhutan is very rich in herbal medicines and other vegetation from which dying materials are extracted for use in dying textiles to create beautiful colours and floral patterns using the traditional methods. The ancient process of making colorful and long lasting dyes using various types of plants, leaves, tree barks, roots, creepers and flowers.

Chhumey Yathra:

Weavers communities in Chhumey in Bumthang District are famous for their products called Yathra and Mathra. The women weave sheep wool into beautiful fabrics known as Yathra and Mathra. While Yathra fabric is used for Jackets, coats, cushion & bed covers, Pricy Mathra fabrics is mainly used for Gho (Mens’ Dress) and Kira (Womens’ Dress). In addition, they also weave Drumzeeden (Woolen Carpet).

Kishuthara:

Intricately woven Kishuthara on silk material are highly priced and not within the affordability of average families.The famous weavers are from Khoma, a village in Lhuentshe district in the eastern region. This village is famous for its silk weavers and the extraordinary detailed textiles known as Kishuthara. Kishuthara is pieces are purely used by women folks as their dress during special occasions. The price depends on the intricacy of pattern, basic colors, shades and the dyes used. The prices vary from $200 – $2,500 for a dress of three pieces stitched into one dress.

Bura Fabric:

Bura fabrics are woven from raw silk called endi. Radhi community in Trashigang District is well known for the production of Bura. Bura production is a major source of income for the people of Radhi and all use the traditional back-stripe loom. Unlike, Kishuthara, Bura fabric is used both for men and women dress depending on the patterns, stripes and shades. In the olden days, communities in the east traditionally used to cultivate mulberry for endiculture. Now, raw silk threads are available at cheaper and in finer qualities from Assam in India. Bura fabrics are thicker and heavier compared to Kishuthara. This has given more preference to Kishuthara for women.

Culture in Bhutan

Bhutan has the richest and one of the world`s finest cultural heritage that has largely remained intact due to its isolation from the rest of the world till early 1960s. One of the main attractions of the tourists in Bhutan is culture and its traditions. The government is increasingly making efforts to sustain the current culture and tradition. Thus, Bhutan has aptly been referred to as the “Last Shangrila”.

Bhutan is seen to be inaccessible to foreigners. There is a widespread misperception that Bhutan has set limits on tourist visas. The high tourist tariff and the requirement to go on packaged tours may have created this impression. Most visitors have seen and felt multiple benefits and advantages of the controlled Daily Tariff and Packaged Tours. You will understand yourself once you are in the country.

National Dress

The traditional dress in Bhutan is called Gho, a knee-length robe tied at the waist by a cloth belt known as the Kera. Women wear an ankle-length dress, the kira, which is clipped at one shoulder and tied at the waist. An accompaniment to the Kira is a long-sleeved blouse called Toego, which is
worn underneath the outer layer. Social status and class determine the texture, colours, and decorations that embellish the garments. Scarves are indicators of social standings, as Bhutan has traditionally been a feudal society. Bhutanese law requires all Bhutanese citizens to wear national dress in public.

Food & Beveraged

Rice, and increasingly maize, are the staple foods of the country. The diet in the hills includes chickens, yak meat, beef and mutton on rare occasions.Soups of meat, rice, and dried vegetables spiced with chilies and cheese are a favorite meal during the cold seasons.
Dairy foods, particularly butter and cheese from yaks and cows are popular, and indeed almost all milk is turned to butter and cheese. Bhutanese cuisines are very hot as lots of chilies are used in various forms. Popular beverages include butter tea, sweet tea, locally brewed rice wine and beer. Bhutan is the only country in the world to have banned the sale of tobacco.

National Sport

Bhutan`s national sport is archery. It differs from Olympic standards not only in technical details such as the placement of the targets and atmosphere. Traditional Bhutanese archery is a social event and competitions are organized between villages, districts and towns.
There are two targets placed 100 meters apart and teams shoot from one end of the field to the other. Each member of the team shoots a pair of arrows per round. Usually plenty of food and drinks complement singing, dancing and funfair. Family members and supporters of the participating teams cheer. Attempts to distract an opponent include standing around the target and making fun of the shooter`s ability.

Darts called Khuru is an equally popular outdoor team sport, in which heavy wooden darts pointed with a 10 cm nail are thrown at a paperback-sized target ten to twenty meters away.

Another traditional sport is the Deogor, which can be best described as shot put combined with horseshoe throwing. Football is an increasingly popular sport.

Musics

Popular music played on a mix of traditional instruments and electronic keyboards dates back to the early 1990s; it shows the influence of Indian popular music, a hybrid form of traditional and Western popular influences. Traditional genres include the Zhungdra (Classical) & Boedra (Modern).

Dzongs

Characteristic of the region is a type of fortress known as the Dzong. This contains the religious and secular administration for each district. There are twenty districts in Bhutan. The Dzongs were constructed at strategic locations aimed to protect the country from invaders and enemies.
Some of the Dzongs also served as political centers in the medieval Bhutan.

Public Holidays

Bhutan has numerous public holidays, most of which centre around traditional seasonal, secular and religious festivals. They include the winter solstice in January depending on the Lunar Calendar. The Lunar New Year in February or March, the King`s Birthday, the Anniversary of
Coronation, the official end of Monsoon season in September, National Day on December 17, and various Buddhist and Hindu celebrations. Even the secular holidays have religious overtones, including religious dances and prayers for blessing the day.

Mask Dances

Masked Dances and Dance Dramas are common traditional features at festivals, usually accompanied by traditional music. Energetic dancers, wearing colourful wooden or composition facemasks and stylized costumes, depict heroes, demons, death heads, animals, gods, and caricatures of common people.
The dancers enjoy royal patronage, and preserve ancient folk and religious customs and perpetuate the ancient lore and art of mask-making.