Bhutan

Country Profile: Bhutan

Official Name: Kingdom of Bhutan

Capital: Thimphu

Geography:

Bhutan is a landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east and west.

Area: Approximately 38,394 square kilometers (approximately 14,824 square miles).

Population: Approximately 770,000 people (as of 2023 estimate).

Language: The official language is Dzongkha. English is also widely spoken.

Climate:

Bhutan has a diverse climate, ranging from subtropical in the south to temperate in the highlands and polar-type climate, with year-round snow, in the north.

Economy:

Bhutan’s economy is based on agriculture, forestry, tourism and the sale of hydroelectric power to India. Bhutan seeks to sustain its culture and environment while modernizing and improving living standards.

Government:

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary form of government.

Education:

Education in Bhutan is free and mandatory for all children, with the government providing all necessary resources, including meals and textbooks.

Culture:

Bhutan is known for its distinctive culture, largely influenced by Buddhism. It is the only country in the world to measure success by Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product.

Noteworthy Facts:

Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country and is home to many endangered species of flora and fauna. The dramatic landscapes range from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. The country is famous for its dzongs (fortresses) and monasteries.

This is a general overview of Bhutan. There’s much more to learn about this country, from its commitment to environmental conservation to its unique approach to measuring national well-being.