Bhutan

File:Bhutan National Anthem Druk Tsendhen.ogg

Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas in South Asia. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Bhutan is known for its unique approach to development, prioritizing Gross National Happiness over Gross Domestic Product.

History

The history of Bhutan is deeply intertwined with its religious and cultural heritage. The country was unified in the 17th century by the Tibetan lama and military leader Ngawang Namgyal, who established the dual system of government combining both secular and religious authority. Bhutan maintained its independence throughout the colonial period, largely due to its geographical isolation and strategic diplomacy.

In 1907, Bhutan became a monarchy with the coronation of Ugyen Wangchuck as the first Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King). The monarchy has played a central role in Bhutan's development, with significant reforms introduced by the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, in the 20th century, including the introduction of a National Assembly and the abolition of serfdom.

Geography

Bhutan is characterized by its mountainous terrain, with the Himalayas dominating the northern part of the country. The southern regions are more subtropical, with dense forests and fertile valleys. The country's highest peak is Gangkhar Puensum, which remains unclimbed and is considered sacred.

Culture

Bhutanese culture is heavily influenced by Buddhism, which is the state religion. The country is known for its traditional architecture, vibrant festivals, and the practice of Dzongkha, the national language. Bhutanese society is guided by the principles of Gross National Happiness, which emphasizes sustainable development, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation.

Economy

Bhutan's economy is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and the sale of hydroelectric power to India. The government has made efforts to diversify the economy, promoting tourism and small-scale industries. The currency, the Ngultrum, is pegged to the Indian rupee.

Politics

Bhutan transitioned to a constitutional monarchy in 2008, with the adoption of its first constitution. The political system is a parliamentary democracy, with the king serving as the head of state and the prime minister as the head of government. The National Assembly and the National Council form the legislative branch.

Also see

• Gross National Happiness
• Himalayas
• Buddhism in Bhutan
• Thimphu
• Ngawang Namgyal