Bhutan

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Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a small, landlocked country in South Asia. It sits in the eastern Himalayas, with China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. The capital and largest city is Thimphu. The country covers about 38,000 square kilometers and is very mountainous.

Population and language
About 770,000 people live in Bhutan. The official language is Dzongkha, but many people also speak English and other local languages. Buddhism is the main religion, especially Vajrayana Buddhism, and Hinduism is practiced by many in the south. The main ethnic groups are Ngalop (Western Bhutan) and Sharchop (Eastern Bhutan), with a Nepali-speaking minority called Lhotshampa.

Government and politics
Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy. The Dragon King is the head of state, and a prime minister leads the government. Parliament has two houses: the National Assembly and the National Council. The country began its move to democracy in 2008. Bhutan has close ties with India and maintains relations with many other countries.

Economy
Bhutan has one of the world’s smallest economies, but it has grown in recent years. Its main income comes from selling hydroelectric power to India. Agriculture, crafts, and tourism also support the economy. The currency is the ngultrum, pegged to the Indian rupee. Life has improved with higher literacy and longer life expectancy.

Environment and people
About 70% of Bhutan is forested. The country uses its forests as a natural carbon sink and places a high priority on protecting nature. This focus is part of its idea of Gross National Happiness, which looks at well-being, not just money. The government has strong environmental laws and has reduced plastic use.

Geography and wildlife
The terrain is extremely mountainous. The north has very high peaks, while the south is warmer and more forested. The highest peak is Gangkhar Puensum, which is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Bhutan is home to diverse wildlife and many protected areas.

Culture
Traditional dress plays a big role. Men wear the gho, and women wear the kira. Dzongs are striking castle-like buildings that serve religious and administrative purposes. Bahut festivals feature masked dances and live music. Archery is the national sport, but other sports like football and cricket are also popular.

History
Bhutan unified its valleys in the 17th century and developed the Druk Gyalpo dynasty. It was never colonised, though it signed treaties with Britain and India. In 2008, Bhutan adopted a new constitution and began a parliamentary system. The country has continued to modernize while preserving its culture and environment.

Today
Bhutan remains a unique country that protects its culture and natural beauty while gradually embracing modern governance and development. It continues to work on roads, airports, and possible rail links with India, and it remains committed to its climate-friendly, people-centered approach to growth.