Bhutan

This landlocked territory spans about 14,800 square miles (38,400 square kilometers) across Eastern Himalayan slopes. Dense forests cover roughly 70 percent of the land. Swift rivers flow southward through valleys where settlements concentrate. Dzongs, fortified monastery complexes built from wood and stone, dominate prominent hilltops and serve administrative and religious functions.

Separate valley principalities existed until 1616 when Ngawang Namgyal unified them under theocratic rule. The hereditary monarchy was established in 1907 with Ugyen Wangchuck as the first king. Constitutional reforms in 2008 transitioned governance to a parliamentary democracy while retaining the monarchy. Television and internet arrived in 1999, marking gradual modernization.

Buddhism permeates daily life through prayer flags, monastic education, and the practice of preserving natural resources. Citizens wear the national dress in government offices and formal settings. Archery serves as the national sport, celebrated during public holidays and community gatherings.

International visitors must arrange trips through licensed operators and pay a Sustainable Development Fee. Paro Airport serves as the sole entry point by air. The dry seasons from March to May and September to November offer favorable conditions. Electricity reaches most areas. Mobile networks operate in populated zones. Altitude sickness precautions apply in high regions.

Constitutional law requires maintaining at least 60 percent forest cover for all time. Tobacco sales are banned nationwide, making it one of the few countries with such restrictions. The climbing of mountains above 6,000 meters (20,000 feet) is prohibited out of respect for sacred peaks considered homes of protective deities.

Inception: December 17, 1907

Capital city: Thimphu

Part of: South Asia

Shares border with: People's Republic of China, India

Website: http://bhutan.gov.bt

GPS coordinates: 27.54951,90.51193

Latest update: November 30, 2025 16:06