Bhutan is a small country in the eastern Himalayas, officially called the Kingdom of Bhutan. People also call it the “Land of the Thunder Dragon” because it’s mysterious and fascinating. Bhutan keeps its old traditions while also being modern. The beautiful landscapes and unique culture always make travelers fall in love with the place. Thimphu and Paro are the two most notable tourist hubs in the country. If you are planning to visit Bhutan, you need to first learn about the country. Before reading the travel guide, you need to some of the facts about Bhutan. Let’s discover some interesting facts about this magical kingdom that will surely leave you enchanted.
Facts About Bhutan
1. Gross National Happiness (GNH): In Bhutan, they don’t just look at money to see how well the country is doing. They have a different way called Gross National Happiness (GNH). It looks at things like protecting the environment, keeping their culture, and making sure people are happy and healthy. They want everyone to be happy and well in Bhutan.
2. The Land of No Traffic Lights: You read that right! Bhutan is the only country in the world that proudly boasts of having no traffic lights. Instead, traffic is managed by policemen stationed at key intersections. This unique feature not only contributes to the country’s aesthetic charm but also aligns with its focus on maintaining a balanced and harmonious way of life.
3. Preservation of Culture: Bhutan loves its culture a lot and takes immense pride in preserving it. They have special clothes for men called “Gho” and for women called “Kira.” People have to wear them in government offices and schools. This step helps people stay connected to their roots and ensures that the traditions are passed on to future generations.
4. Carbon-Negative Nation: Bhutan is really good at taking care of the environment. They do more than just balance the carbon they produce; they actually absorb more carbon dioxide than they make. They have lots of forests, covering over 70% of their land, and they are committed to being sustainable. This helps a lot in dealing with climate change around the world. Bhutan is doing a great job in protecting the planet!
5. Magical Monasteries and Dzongs: Bhutan has many beautiful monasteries and forts. One of the most famous is the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It’s on a cliff, and it looks amazing! Long ago in the 8th century, a wise person named Guru Rinpoche meditated in a cave here. These special places show Bhutan’s religious history and give visitors a peaceful and stunning view.
6. No Tolerance for Plastic: Bhutan is one of the few countries in the world that has imposed a complete ban on plastic bags. This progressive step came into effect in 1999 as part of the government’s commitment to environmental conservation. Visitors are required to surrender any plastic bags upon entering the country, ensuring that its pristine landscapes remain unspoiled.
7. Archery – The National Sport: Archery is more than just a sport in Bhutan. It is deeply ingrained in the country’s cultural fabric. Bhutanese archery competitions are vibrant and lively events, often accompanied by traditional music and dances. It reflects the country’s love for tradition and its penchant for celebrating life’s simple joys.
8. Yetis and Magical Creatures: Bhutanese people love stories about mythical creatures like the Yeti, which they call “Migoi.” It’s a mysterious ape-like creature that’s been part of their stories for a very long time. Some people in Bhutan still think it might be real! These amazing stories make the already magical landscape even more enchanting and full of wonder.
9. National Flower – The Blue Poppy: The Blue Poppy (Meconopsis grandis) holds the distinction of being Bhutan’s national flower. This rare and delicate flower thrives in the high-altitude regions of the country and blooms in a stunning shade of blue. Its presence adds a splash of color to the rugged Himalayan terrain, making it a sight to behold.
10. Television and Internet Introduced Late: Bhutan is one of the last countries in the world to have introduced television and the Internet. Television was first permitted in the country in 1999, and internet access became available to the public only in 1999. This delay was intentional, as the Bhutanese government sought to preserve its unique culture and protect the country from the potential negative impact of modern media.
11. Highest Unclimbed Peak in the World: Gangkhar Puensum is the highest mountain in Bhutan. It has an elevation of 7570 meters. Now the important fact is that the mountain has never been conquered. There have been several unsuccessful attempts to conquer the mountain in the past. The country also prohibits access to the mountain since 1987.
12. It Has Never Been Conquered: It is interesting to know that Bhutan has never been conquered. It is because of its inaccessible territory and smart decisions taken by various kings and gurus of Bhutan.
13. Education and Healthcare is Free: Bhutan offers free health and educational facilities to all citizens. This is another reason why the citizen of the country is happy and live peacefully.
14. Low Crime Rates: People of Bhutan practice Buddhism. So, crime rates are very low. Violent crimes are rarely reported in the country. You can find instances of pickpocketing, theft, and domestic violence, but the overall crime rate is significantly less than in other countries.
15. It is Illegal to Kill Anything: Bhutan cherishes animals and doesn’t allow people to kill any animals or birds. You will be arrested and fined if you slaughter an animal for food or catch fish from the rivers. People in Bhutan eat meat and enjoy non-veg food a lot, but they import it from other countries.
Wrap UP
Bhutan is an extraordinary country that continues to captivate the world with its unique approach to governance, cultural preservation, and environmental consciousness. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, spiritual heritage, and warm-hearted people, Bhutan stands as a shining example of how tradition and progress can harmoniously coexist. A visit to this mystical kingdom is not just a journey of exploration but also an opportunity to reflect on the essence of happiness and the significance of sustainable living. Bhutan truly is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by intrepid travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind experience.