Bhutan | DRUK RAFTING SERVICE

Bhutan – Happiness is a place

Bhutan, ‘the land of Thunder Dragon’ and ‘the last Shangri La’ on earth, is situated in the lap of Eastern Himalayas between India and the People’s Republic of China. Covering an area of 18000 sq miles, the tiny Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the most isolated nations in the world.

Virtually the entire country is mountainous, and ranges in elevation from 100m along the Indian border to the 7,554m Kulha Gangri peak on the Tibetan border. These two extremes frame a landscape which stretches from sub-tropical to arctic like conditions. The maximum East-West stretch of the country is approximately 300 km and north-South about 150 km. The smaller in size, the country is bestowed with rich bio-diversity harboring around 300 medicinal herbs and 165 endangered species.

The Buddhist faith has played and continues to play a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its people. Each region of Bhutan has its own, historical, geographical, cultural, traditional and religious significance. Stupas and chortens line the roadside commemorating places where Guru Rinpoche or highly revered spiritual gurus may have stopped to meditate. Prayer flags dot the hills fluttering in the wind – constantly maintaining communication with the heavens.

Spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora & fauna, unique ancient Buddhist monasteries, the most hospitable and friendly people make a visit to Bhutan a truly enjoyable experience.

Quick Facts of Bhutan

  • Capital: Thimphu
  • Area Total: 47,000 km2
  • Language: Official language Dzongkha, with
  • English widely spoken.
  • Population: 797,765 ( 2016 )
  • Currency: Ngultrum (equal to Indian Rupee).
  • National Tree: Cypress.
  • National Bird: Raven
  • National Dress; Gho & Kira
  • National Flower: Blue Poppy
  • Forest Area: 72.5 %.
  • Altitude: Between 300m and 7541m above sea level.
  • Religion: Mahayana Buddhism (also known as Tantric Buddhism).

Religion Fact of Bhutan

Bhutan is the only Mahayana Buddhism Kingdom in the world, with Mahayana (tantric) Buddhism as its official religion. It is practiced throughout the entire country by 74.7 Percent of the population. Hinduism is closely related to Buddhism, is Bhutan’s second religion, practiced by about 25.3 Percent of the population. Before Buddhist religion got the heart of Bhutan, Many supernatural power religions are in a different community. Minority groups still practice these traditions and rituals in some parts of the country.

Buddhism plays a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its’ people. In the past to ensure that Buddhism stays vividly alive, one son from every family usually attends a monastic school. In addition detachment, ephemerality and change are the 3 major themes of the Buddhist religion.Read more at: https://www.trekkingtrail.com/quick-facts-of-bhutan.html

Unique Facts of Bhutan?

The word “Bhutan" translates to Land of the Thunder Dragon. It earned the nickname because of the fierce storms that often roll in from the Himalayas. Bhutan is the first country in the world, which make its constitution for the obligation to its people towards environmental protection. As a result, minimum 60% of total land of Bhutan must cover by forest. The Great Jigme Singye Wangchuck and whole Wangchuck Dynasty one and only reason for Bhutan to get awards of such a special country.

When asked about Bhutan’s “uniqueness” or “specialty”, people often come up with lists which include one or all of the following points:

  • A single country in the world to sink the carbon.
  • 70.5 Percent land covered by forest.
  • Only a country to follow the GNH known as Gross National Happiness
  • Total tobacco ban.
  • No traffic lights in the entire country.

Bhutan Travel Guide

With its wonderfully unspoiled environment, friendly people and Buddhist stupas, chortens and prayer flags abounding, Bhutan really is an idyllic place to visit.