Bhutan Trip
4 videos • 19 views • by Know The Things With Chandni Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom located in South Asia, known for its unique cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a measure of progress and prosperity. In this essay, I will provide a comprehensive overview of Bhutan, including its history, culture, economy, and government. Geography and Climate: Bhutan is a landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by India to the south and China to the north. The country is roughly the size of Switzerland, with an area of 38,394 square kilometers, and is characterized by its rugged terrain and mountainous landscape. The highest peak in Bhutan is Gangkhar Puensum, which stands at 7,570 meters. Bhutan's climate is diverse, with variations in temperature and precipitation depending on the altitude and region. The southern part of the country is tropical, with a hot and humid climate and heavy monsoon rains from June to September. The central part of Bhutan has a temperate climate, with cool winters and warm summers. The northern part of the country is alpine, with cold winters and mild summers. History: Bhutan's history can be traced back to the 8th century, when Guru Rinpoche, a Buddhist master, introduced Buddhism to the region. Bhutan was ruled by a series of local chieftains until the 17th century, when Ngawang Namgyal, a lama and military leader, unified the country and established the dual system of governance that is still in place today. Under the dual system, the country is governed by both a secular government and a spiritual leader, the Je Khenpo. The Je Khenpo is the head of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism, which is the dominant religion in Bhutan. The secular government is led by the King, who serves as the head of state. Bhutan was largely isolated from the rest of the world until the 20th century, when it began to open up to the outside world. In 2008, Bhutan transitioned from an absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, with the adoption of a new constitution that established a democratic system of government. Culture: Bhutan's culture is deeply influenced by its Buddhist heritage, and the country is known for its unique blend of tradition and modernity. Bhutanese society is organized around the concept of GNH, which emphasizes the importance of spiritual, cultural, and environmental well-being in addition to material wealth. One of the most visible aspects of Bhutanese culture is its traditional dress, which is worn by both men and women. Men wear a garment called a gho, which is a knee-length robe tied at the waist with a belt, while women wear a garment called a kira, which is a floor-length dress worn over a blouse. Bhutan is also known for its traditional festivals, or tshechus, which are held throughout the year in various parts of the country. These festivals feature colorful dances and music, and are an important way for Bhutanese people to celebrate their culture and traditions. Bhutanese cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with dishes such as ema datshi (chili and cheese stew), phaksha paa (pork with spicy red chili sauce), and momos (dumplings) being popular staples. Bhutan is also known for its distinctive red rice, which is grown in the country's terraced fields. Economy: Bhutan's economy is largely based on agriculture, with the majority of the population engaged in subsistence farming. The country is known for its production of high-quality organic products such as red rice, honey, and mushrooms.