The land of THE THUNDER DRAGON
Bhutan, known as Drukyul, captivates with its striking contrasts and unique harmony. Here, one can discover peace and opportunities for business, immerse in vibrant living traditions, and explore wilderness brimming with diverse life.
Diversity & UNITY
A rich tapestry of ethnicities, all proudly Bhutanese.
In Bhutan, you’ll encounter a diverse tapestry of cultures and languages. From the Tshanglas in the east to the Ngalops in the west, and the Lhotshampas in the fertile southern foothills, each region is rich with its own unique communities like the Bumthaps, Khengpas, Brokpas, Bramis, Kurtoeps, Doyas, and Monpas. Here, nineteen languages are spoken, including English, which is integral to the Bhutanese school system. Rooted in Buddhism, our peaceful nation cherishes core values of compassion, inclusivity, and warm hospitality.
Heritage & PROGRESS
Proud of our heritage and building a thriving future.
Our history intertwines ancient lore with recent events, set against the majestic backdrop of the Himalayas. Bhutan, known as Drukyul, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, remained largely untouched for centuries, nurturing distinctive traditions and lifestyles. Today, our vision is forward-looking, prioritizing education, technology, and infrastructure to position Bhutan as a significant global presence.
Monarchy & DEMOCRACY
Uniquely independent and determinedly democratic.
While our land has a history spanning millennia, our identity as a nation is relatively young. Our journey continues to evolve: our country unified four centuries ago, our monarchy is a century old, and our democracy just 14 years. Throughout our history, we have maintained a steadfast commitment to independence, dedicated to advancing our nation and fostering global friendships.
Creativity & TRADITION
From rural homes to restaurants, Bhutan is full of flavour.
Here, hospitality intertwines seamlessly with cuisine. From the most remote valleys to the trendiest eateries, a common set of ingredients sparks an astonishing array of dishes: yak and cow milk cheeses, red rice, butter, buckwheat, and omnipresent chillies. Whether red or green, dried, in pastes, or sambals, chillies reign supreme as Bhutan’s beloved vegetable, embodying our warm welcome in the most literal sense.
Adventure & WELL-BEING
Soothe your spirit or test your mettle – or both.
Bhutan provides exhilaratingly diverse experiences that cater to both body and soul, often in tandem. Whether you seek challenging hikes or soothing sound healing, adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting or rejuvenating hot-stone baths, adventurous mountain biking or serene meditation sessions – the options are as diverse as the landscape itself, guaranteed to uplift spirits and foster deep relaxation.
Town & COUNTRY
Alongside culture-packed cities, rural life quietly unfolds.
In Thimphu, Paro, and Phuentsholing, the streets hum with locals engaged in work and social activities, while visitors explore vibrant markets and museums. Amid serene valleys and steep hillsides, locals churn milk into butter, forage wild greens from the forests, and share conversations over suja, traditional butter tea. Here, everyone finds their rhythm and a special place to connect with Bhutan’s unique way of life.
Peaks & PLAINS
An unrivalled variety of landscapes and life.
In Bhutan, the landscape spans from lowland valleys to towering peaks reaching over 7,000m, allowing travelers to experience multiple climates in a single day. From lush subtropical valleys to pine-covered slopes and high-altitude glaciers, each elevation harbors a rich diversity of wildlife. With over 70% of our land covered in pristine forests, Bhutan boasts thriving biodiversity, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking the untamed beauty of the wild.
Archers & ARTISTS
Meet masters of contemporary culture and ancient art forms.
Through centuries of isolation, our unique cultural traditions have flourished and continue to evolve today. One such tradition is archery, our national sport, which remains the centerpiece of lively and fiercely competitive tournaments. We also cherish thirteen protected arts and crafts, collectively known as zorig chusum, ranging from ceramics and blacksmithing to sculpture and carpentry, each skill meticulously passed down through generations.
This vibrant heritage has infused every aspect of our daily life, from the simplest homes to the grandest dzongs. In Thimphu, the Voluntary Artists Studio, VAST, serves as a hub where young artists create contemporary works, while traditional weavers collaborate with emerging designers, blending classical techniques with modern innovation. This synthesis of old and new enriches our cultural landscape, preserving our heritage while embracing the future.
