Results for "natural beauty"
Cities Encyclopedia Entry 1777830785
Ha Long Bay City, a rapidly growing urban center situated in the heart of Vietnam's scenic Ha Long Bay, is a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.
GeographyCountries Encyclopedia Entry 1779170105
Bhutan, a small, mountainous country in the Himalayas, is known for its unique approach to development, prioritizing Gross National Happiness over economic growth. ## Overview Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country nestled in the Himalayas between India and China. With a total area of approximately 38,394 square kilometers (14,824 sq mi), Bhutan is the 132nd largest country in the world by land area. The country's terrain is dominated by rugged mountains, with the highest peak being Gangkhar Puensum, which stands at 7,570 meters (24,806 ft) above sea level. The capital city, Thimphu, is home to over 100,000 people, making it the largest city in the country. Bhutan's unique culture is a blend of Buddhism, Hinduism, and indigenous traditions. The country has a population of around 771,608 people, with the majority being ethnic Ngalop and Sharchop. The official language is Dzongkha, but many people also speak Nepali, Hindi, and English. Bhutan is known for its stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, pristine rivers, and majestic mountains. The country's unique approach to development, prioritizing Gross National Happiness (GNH) over economic growth, has made it a model for sustainable development. ## History/Background Bhutan's history dates back to the 8th century, when the country was first unified under the rule of King Songtsen Gampo. The kingdom was later divided into several smaller states, which were eventually reunified in the 17th century under the rule of the great unifier, Ngawang Namgyal. Bhutan's strategic location between India and China made it an important player in regional politics, and the country was often involved in conflicts with its neighbors. In 1910, Bhutan signed a treaty with Britain, which granted the country autonomy in exchange for British protection. After India gained independence in 1947, Bhutan became a protectorate of India, with the Indian government providing economic and military assistance. In 1971, Bhutan became a constitutional monarchy, with the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, introducing a new constitution that established a parliamentary system of government. The country's unique approach to development, prioritizing GNH over economic growth, was introduced in the 1970s, with the aim of creating a more equitable and sustainable society. In 2008, Bhutan became the world's first country to adopt a constitution that guarantees the right to internet access and freedom of speech. ## Key Information * Capital: Thimphu * Population: 771,608 (2020 estimate) * Area: 38,394 square kilometers (14,824 sq mi) * Language: Dzongkha (official), Nepali, Hindi, English * Currency: Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN) * Religion: Buddhism (mainly Vajrayana) * Government: Constitutional monarchy * Economy: Agriculture, hydropower, tourism * Famous for: Gross National Happiness, unique culture, stunning natural beauty ## Significance Bhutan's unique approach to development has made it a model for sustainable development, with the country prioritizing environmental conservation, social welfare, and cultural preservation over economic growth. The country's commitment to GNH has led to significant improvements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, making Bhutan one of the happiest countries in the world. Bhutan's stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and unique approach to development make it a popular destination for tourists, with the country's tourism industry generating significant revenue for the government. INFOBOX: - Name: Kingdom of Bhutan - Type: Country - Date: 1910 (treaty with Britain) - Location: Himalayas, between India and China - Known For: Gross National Happiness, unique culture, stunning natural beauty TAGS: Bhutan, Gross National Happiness, sustainable development, Himalayas, constitutional monarchy, unique culture, natural beauty, tourism, education, healthcare, infrastructure.