10 interesting and educational facts about Bhutan (11 photos)

The Kingdom of Bhutan, or as its residents call it "The Land of the Thunder Dragon", a state in South Asia, opened its doors to tourists only after 1974. The country is hidden among the huge Himalayan peaks, surrounded by greenery and monasteries. Getting to Bhutan is very difficult. In this post, you will learn interesting facts about this unusual country.





1. Incredible Himalayas



The Himalayan range crosses Nepal, China, India and, of course, Bhutan, from where you can appreciate the magnificence of this mountain range. And this is precisely one of the attractions of this country, because wherever you go, you are accompanied by a unique view of peaks up to 7 thousand meters high, sometimes covered with snow. Gangkhar Puensum is the highest mountain in Bhutan. Its height is 7,570 meters.

2. National Happiness





In 1987, the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, coined the term "Gross National Happiness", believing that the growth of a nation cannot be achieved at the economic level alone, but must go hand in hand with the sense of joy of its people. Thus, since then, an official measurement has been conducted year after year, taking into account four pillars: equitable socio-economic growth, preservation and promotion of cultural and spiritual heritage, environmental protection, and good governance. Since then, the happiness king’s vision has been enshrined in Article 9 of Bhutan’s 2008 Constitution, which states: “The State shall endeavor to promote such conditions as will lead to the attainment of Gross National Happiness.”

3. Tourists are welcome, but there’s a catch



While Bhutan is becoming popular, it wants to keep too many tourists from arriving, especially those considered low-budget. That’s why the government has partnered with some travel companies, and it’s through them that people can arrange their visit to the country. And the number of tourists is also regulated by high fees for each day they stay in the country. And by the way, the only international airport is in Paro, which is over 2,000 meters above sea level!

4. Architecture of Bhutan



You won't find tall or modern buildings in Bhutan, as the architecture maintains the tradition of the dzong, a type of fortress typical of Tibetan and Buddhist regions that cares for harmony with nature, giving a calm and peaceful appearance. Almost all Bhutanese live in typical three-story houses, where the first floor is used as a barn for livestock, the second for living quarters, and the third is used as a storage for hay. The buildings are decorated with hand-painted shutters and facades.

5. Environment First



Bhutan is a nature reserve country. About 70% of the country is covered by dense forests, and there are a large number of mountain rivers. Hundreds of species live in its mountains and forests, such as leopards, red pandas, Himalayan blue goats and even tigers. The national animal is the takin, a mammal that lives only in this part of the Himalayas. All laws here protect nature. Green energy, electric cars, no pesticides and harmful emissions from factories. Bhutan is the only country with negative carbon emissions. All farming here is natural, and there are no GMOs. Although the country is not very rich, there is no crime, hunger or beggars in Bhutan. The kingdom provides all residents with free medicine, education and their own housing.

6. Kitchen with a twist



The basis of the national cuisine of Bhutan is red rice, which differs from the usual in its light nutty flavor. Since the agricultural areas are at high altitude, the only cereals grown here are buckwheat and corn. Chicken, pork and beef are fried, boiled or stewed with the addition of a large number of seasonings. The national cuisine of Bhutan is spicy, three times a day. Among the national dishes, Ema Datshi is known - a mixture of hot chili peppers and local cheese, to which green beans, ferns, mushrooms or potatoes are added.

7. Religion and Education



In the past, basic education took place in Buddhist monasteries. Until the mid-20th century, there were only two schools in the entire country, so most of the population was illiterate. Over time, the number of schools has increased significantly. The main religion in Bhutan is Buddhism.

8. Bad Habits



The government of Bhutan strictly adheres to the ban on tobacco and alcohol consumption. Although in recent years there has been a relaxation for tourists. As for cigarettes, their production in the country is prohibited, as well as their promotion through advertising of any kind and their sale is controlled by the government. Alcoholic drinks are limited to certain liquor and local beer. In addition, if you are a tourist and want to take tobacco with you, you will have to pay a tax of 200 percent of its commercial value.

9. The main attraction



High in the mountains are numerous Buddhist monasteries and temple complexes. The most famous of them is the Taktsang Laghang Monastery, the Tiger's Nest, which is located on a ledge cut into the rock above the Paro Valley. White buildings with brightly colored roofs seem to float in the air and are connected by stone steps.

10. National Sports



The most popular sport in the country has its roots in ancient times. With the help of bows and arrows, hunters obtained food for themselves and their families, so every man was obliged to know how to handle such weapons. Today, there are no hunters in Bhutan, and bows and arrows are used exclusively in sports disciplines, and during important events such as festivals, religious ceremonies and other holidays.