Bhutan
One of the first carbon negative countries in the world
Nestled in nature’s embrace, Bhutan stands as the last Shangri-La
Discover Bhutan, where ancient monasteries cling to mist-shrouded cliffs and prayer flags dance with Himalayan winds. This last Shangri-La is a realm where sacred peaks touch the heavens and timeless traditions paint every valley with divine serenity.
Himalayan Kingdom
The tiny Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan lies between two giant countries, India and China. It is surrounded by snowcapped mountains in the north and foothills in the south. Bhutan boasts a rich and unique culture with a population of less than seven hundred thousand. The country’s elevations range from 150 meters to 7,570 meters above sea level.
Carbon Negative Country
Travel to Bhutan, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” promises a breathtaking experience of pristine forests and landscapes, Buddhist culture, and welcoming, friendly people. Opened to tourists in 1974, Bhutan has become a popular tourist destination. Festivals are a major attraction, often held in ancient fortresses, temples, and monasteries.
52% Protected Area
More than 52% of Bhutan’s land is protected, encompassing five major national parks, four wildlife sanctuaries, one strict nature reserve, and one botanical park. Bhutan maintains 72% forest coverage, featuring diverse forest types such as subtropical, warm broadleaf, cool broadleaf, subalpine, and alpine meadows.
770 Bird Species
The country is home to over 770 bird species, 200 mammal species, and more than 5,400 plant species. Bhutan shelters many threatened and endangered species, including the Bengal Tiger, Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Asian Elephant, and Golden Langur.
Specific Species
Bird species include the Ward’s Trogon, Beautiful Nuthatch, Satyr Tragopan, Rufous-necked Hornbill, and the critically endangered, White-bellied Heron, with only 26 individuals recorded in Bhutan in 2024 out of a global population of fewer than 40.
Thriving Majestic Species
The majestic species like Tiger and Snow Leopard population have increased to 131 tigers and 134 Snow Leopards as per the recent population survey 2022-2023 conducted by the Department of Forests and Park Services with funding support from Bhutan for Life Program.
We Celebrate Atsara (Clown)
In Bhutanese culture, the Atsara (Clown) plays a significant role in religious festivals, bringing good luck and cleansing negative energy. Their irreverent behavior serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of embracing joy and laughter amidst spiritual practices.
Boedra and Zhungdra
Boedra and Zhungdra are two cherished forms of traditional Bhutanese folk dance, often showcased during festivals and cultural gatherings. Boedra is known for its lively and dynamic movements, characterized by energetic footwork and vibrant expressions. On the other hand, Zhungdra exudes a sense of serenity and grace with its slow-paced movements.
Mask Dance
Traditional mask dances, known as Cham in Bhutan, are an integral part of the country’s religious and cultural heritage and ensuring that this unique cultural heritage continues to thrive for future generations. The dances are performed by monks and lay monk during religious festivals. These dances are considered as sacred rituals aimed at invoking deities, warding off evil spirits, and bestowing blessings upon the community.
Gross National Happiness (GNH)
Bhutan famously measures its progress not just by economic indicators but also by Gross National Happiness, a concept introduced by the Fourth King of Bhutan, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
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Happiness Impact Assessments
Bhutan requires all major policy decisions to undergo a “GNH screening tool” – similar to how other countries conduct environmental impact assessments. Projects and policies must demonstrate positive contributions across multiple happiness domains (like cultural preservation, community vitality, and psychological well-being) before being approved. This systematic integration of happiness metrics into policymaking is unique to Bhutan’s governance system.
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Mandated Environmental Protection
Bhutan’s constitution mandates maintaining at least 60% forest coverage, directly linking environmental conservation to national happiness. This constitutional requirement, tied to GNH principles, has helped make Bhutan the world’s only carbon-negative country. Environmental protection isn’t just a policy goal – it’s seen as fundamental to collective well-being and happiness.
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Integration of Buddhist Values
Bhutan’s GNH is deeply rooted in Buddhist principles, particularly emphasizing collective well-being over individual success. The framework explicitly incorporates spiritual practices and cultural preservation as key measures of national progress – something rarely seen in other national development indices. For instance, the GNH survey includes questions about meditation practices, participation in religious festivals, and knowledge of traditional folklore.
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Truly Unique Bhutan
Bhutan is indeed remarkably unique in many ways. Here’s what makes the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” truly distinctive
Taktshang Monastery
Taktsang Monastery, commonly known as the Tiger’s Nest, is an iconic and sacred landmark situated on a cliff overlooking the Paro Valley, north of Paro town, at an elevation of approximately 3,100 meters above sea level. Today, the monastery is a sacred pilgrimage site for both local and international tourists.
Punakha Dzong
Punakha Dzong, also known as Pungthang Dewachen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness), was founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1637. This fortress-monastery holds significant religious relics and artifacts, including the preserved body of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal from the 17th century.
Druk Wangyel Chorten
The Druk Wangyel Chortens are a cluster of stupas located on the hilltop of Dochula Pass. The 108 stupas hold great significance in Buddhism, symbolizing completion and unity. On clear days, the site offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountain ranges, including snow-capped peaks.
Tsechu
Tshechu is a vibrant and colorful celebrations held in Dzongs and Temples. The events feature masked dances performed by monks, laymen, and folk songs, along with traditional dances by local artists, serving as significant social and religious gatherings for Bhutanese communities. Thousands gather in colorful traditional dress to witness these lively festivals.
Bhutanese Cuisine
Bhutanese cuisine is diverse and often spicy, staples diet is red rice, chili peppers, and cheese. Ema Datshi, considered the national dish of Bhutan, is a spicy dish made with chili peppers and cheese.
Gangtey-Phobjikha
The annual, Black-necked Crane Festival celebrated by the people of Gangtey/Phobjikha on November 12th coincides with the birth anniversary of the Great Fourth King of Bhutan.
Zorig Chusum
It refers to the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan and includes painting, sculpture, woodcarving, metalwork, pottery, embroidery, bamboo weaving, papermaking, masonry, blacksmithing, and leatherwork.
Facts about Bhutan
Did You Know?
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National Dress
Gho (for men): A knee-length robe tied at the waist with a cloth belt known as the kera. The gho is often worn with knee-high socks and traditional shoes.
Kira (for women): An ankle-length dress wrapped and fastened at the shoulders with silver clasps called koma and tied at the waist with a kera.
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National Game
Archery: The national sport of Bhutan, archery is deeply ingrained in Bhutanese culture. Traditional archery tournaments are festive events that include singing, dancing, and celebrations.
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National Animal
Takin (Budorcas taxicolor): A rare and unique animal found in the high altitudes of Bhutan. The takin is known for its distinctive appearance, which looks like a reassembled heap of a Cow and a Goat.
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National Bird
Raven: The raven symbolizes the protective deity Gonpo Jarodongchen. It also features prominently on the royal crown of Bhutan.
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National Butterfly
Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory. Bhutan’s national butterfly is Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory (Bhutanitis ludlowi), which is identified as endangered species. Bhutanitis ludlowi is commonly known as Ludlow’s Bhutan Glory.
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National Emblem
The National Emblem of Bhutan: This emblem features a double diamond thunderbolt (dorji) placed above a lotus, flanked by two dragons, and topped with a jewel. The emblem represents the harmony between secular and religious power, as well as the protection of the country by the deities.
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National Anthem
Druk Tsendhen: The national anthem of Bhutan, “Druk Tsendhen” translates to “The Kingdom of Druk,” celebrating the peace and prosperity of the nation.
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National Flower
Blue Poppy (Meconopsis grandis): A rare and beautiful flower that grows in the high altitudes of Bhutan. It is admired for its vibrant blue petals and delicate appearance.
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National Tree
Cypress (Cupressus torulosa): Known for its resilience and long life, the cypress tree is revered in Bhutanese culture and is often planted near temples and monasteries.