About Bhutan

Secluded in the Eastern Himalayas between India and China (Tibet), Bhutan is as large as Switzerland but sparsely populated, with barely 800,000 inhabitants. This enchanting country, often likened to the mythical Shangri-La, boasts magnificent mountains, dense forests, charming people, impressive architecture, and pristine air.

With 80 percent of its population engaged in agriculture or livestock farming, Bhutan remains a predominantly rural nation, with minimal industrial activity, except in the south. The pastoral landscape can seem almost surreal to travelers from industrialized nations: houses adorned with brightly painted window frames and shingled roofs, vibrant green paddy fields, patches of tawny buckwheat, lush oak forests, a covered bridge, intricately woven bamboo fences, a man harvesting his crops, a woman weaving in the open air, and yaks grazing among giant rhododendrons.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Bhutan may have been inhabited as early as 2000 BC. Buddhism was likely introduced in the 2nd century, though traditional accounts credit its introduction to the 8th-century visit of Guru Rinpoche, one of Bhutan’s most significant historical figures and often regarded as the second Buddha.

Bhutan has been a monarchy since 1907, with the various dzongkhags (districts) unified under the leadership of Trongsa Penlop. The fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, began implementing constitutional reforms and, in December 2005, announced his decision to abdicate in favor of his eldest son in 2008. On December 14, 2006, the crown prince ascended to the throne. A mock election was held in April 2007, and parliamentary elections were scheduled for 2008.

King Jigme Singye Wangchuck championed a policy of controlled development, focusing on environmental preservation and the protection of Bhutan’s unique culture. His concept of ‘Gross National Happiness’ became widely known, emphasizing economic self-reliance and holistic well-being. His coronation on June 2, 1974, marked Bhutan’s debut on the world stage, with international media allowed entry into the Kingdom for the first time. Later that year, the first group of paying tourists arrived. In a significant political reform in June 1998, the king dissolved the Council of Ministers and mandated that ministers previously appointed by him would now need to stand for election. The resultant cabinet features a rotating chairman. In 1999, television and the Internet were introduced to Bhutan, further opening the country to the outside world.