Overview
Bhutan is a sovereign kingdom located in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal to the south, east, and west, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north. With a total area of approximately 38,394 square kilometers (14,824 square miles), Bhutan is the 67th largest country in the world by land area. The country has a population of around 771,608 people, according to the 2017 census, with a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including the Ngalop, Sharchop, and Lhotshampa. Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy, with the current monarch, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck's son, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, serving as the fifth king since 2006.
Bhutan is a country of breathtaking natural beauty, with towering mountains, lush forests, and pristine rivers. The country's unique geography has created a range of distinct ecosystems, including tropical, subtropical, and alpine zones. The capital city, Thimphu, is a bustling metropolis with a mix of traditional and modern architecture, while the countryside is dotted with ancient monasteries, temples, and villages. Bhutan is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the iconic red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bear.
History/Background
Bhutan has a rich and complex history, dating back to the 8th century when the country was first unified under the rule of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The country's early history was marked by a series of wars with neighboring Tibet and India, as well as internal power struggles. In the 17th century, Bhutan was unified under the rule of the first Shabdrung, Ngawang Namgyal, who established the country's unique approach to governance and Buddhism. The Shabdrung's vision of a harmonious balance between spiritual and temporal power has shaped Bhutan's history and culture to this day.
In the 19th century, Bhutan was forced to sign the Treaty of Thimphu, which ceded significant territory to British India. This led to a period of colonial-style rule, which was eventually abolished in 1910. Bhutan remained isolated from the rest of the world until the 1960s, when the country began to open up to international trade and tourism. In 1971, Bhutan became a member of the United Nations, and in 2008, the country transitioned to a constitutional monarchy.
Key Information
* Capital: Thimphu
* Language: Dzongkha (official), Nepali, Hindi, and English
* Currency: Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN)
* Population: 771,608 (2017 census)
* Area: 38,394 square kilometers (14,824 square miles)
* Government: Constitutional monarchy
* Economy: Agriculture, hydropower, and tourism
* Climate: Tropical, subtropical, and alpine zones
Bhutan is known for its unique approach to sustainable development, which prioritizes the well-being of the environment and the people over economic growth. The country's Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, introduced in 1972, measures the quality of life and well-being of citizens, rather than GDP. Bhutan is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Buddhist and indigenous traditions.
Significance
Bhutan's significance extends far beyond its borders. The country's unique approach to sustainable development has inspired other nations to adopt similar policies. Bhutan's commitment to preserving its natural environment and cultural heritage has also made it a leader in the field of eco-tourism. The country's Gross National Happiness index has also become a benchmark for measuring the well-being of citizens around the world.
