The Kingdom of Bhutan. Bhutan on the map

The countries of Asia are interesting for their distinctive culture and amazing traditions. For tourists, they are particularly attractive to the hot climate, combined with the picturesque nature. One of these countries - the Kingdom of Bhutan - is famous for its unique traditions and foundations that modern people seem to be wonderful.

Familiarity with a closed kingdom

The country of Bhutan has recently become accessible to tourists. For a long time the territory of the state that is located on the slopes of the Himalayas was completely isolated from the outside world. This was the reason that the people of Bhutan managed to carry through the centuries and maintain their distinctive traditions and unique culture.

The population of the country is about 700 thousand people. Of these, 80% of rural residents.

Bhutan on the map of the world occupies a place between the two most densely populated countries: China and India. Its territory is divided into three regions, which are different in relief. The Rinak mountain range divides Bhutan into the East and the West. This is not only a geographical, but also an ethno-cultural border.

The climate is quite diverse, like vegetation. This is not due to the territorial breadth of the country, but to the landscape features of the location of one or another of its territories.

Literally the name of the country is translated as "the outskirts of Tibet". Travelers Bhutan surprises with picturesque views and an outlandish, one might even say, primitive social organization. The most interesting thing is the visit of this companion to the Buddhist associates. Here, far from worldly noise, they can find true peace.

The Bhutanese are a good-natured and hospitable people, they always welcome guests, but at the same time they do not perceive another's culture, but cherish their history and traditions.

Importance of Religion

The Kingdom of Bhutan honors its religion. She has a special place in the life of the state and the people. The main religion here is Tibetan Buddhism. Even now, when the country has become open to tourists, none of them, under any circumstances can not get into dzong. These fortified monasteries are the basis for the preservation of Buddhist spiritual values and a permanent place for ritual ceremonies.

There are also Old Believers in Bhutan. People who adhere to the religion that existed in these territories before the advent of Buddhism. This religion is called a boon. It is based on the cult of nature.

Not quite the usual capital

The capital of Bhutan - the city of Thimphu - for us, modern urbanized citizens, will remind a large village. There are no tall buildings of gray concrete and mirror glass, there are no traffic lights, there are no motorways filled with cars.

The town is located at an altitude of 2400 meters above sea level in the valley of the river Thimphu-Chu. Its population does not exceed 90 thousand people. This is perhaps the most unusual capital of the country. The city is very atmospheric and has its own unique color. The architecture of Thimphu is based on ancient traditions. Everywhere you can see the bright facades of buildings and the sharp spiers of roofs rising in the sky.

The symbol of the capital is Trashi-Chho-Dzong, which means "the strength of a blessed religion." Previously, dzong played the role of a defensive structure, and now it is the palace of the Supreme Lama.

Government and laws

The legislative function of the state is exercised by the King and the National Assembly, which consists of 150 people. 105 of them are elected in state elections, 10 are appointed by Buddhist monks, and another 35 are the choice of the king. Until 1969, the monarch could veto absolutely any decision of the National Assembly. But there was a change in the laws, and now the commander-in-chief himself can be dismissed from the throne, if the people's representatives reveal distrust to him.

The Council of Ministers, also under the leadership of the King, has an executive function. Ministers are elected from the list of proposed candidates by members of parliament, by secret ballot.

The official language of the country is bhotiya or zon-keh.

Interestingly, the country of Bhutan does not have its own constitution. The main statutory act of the state is the Royal Decree on the organization of the National Assembly, adopted as far back as 1953.

Bhutan's legal norms are based on religious laws. The issues of marriages, divorces, adoptions are decided on the basis of Buddhist or Hindu religious law.

In the legislation of Bhutan, there are many moments in defense of its culture and traditions. For example, it is not allowed to erect buildings and structures that differ from the local architectural course. Even new houses are built on the motives and forms of existing ancient buildings.

Flag of the Kingdom of Bhutan

Bhutan is a country whose official flag consists of two triangles, yellow top and orange bottom. In the center on their background is depicted a white dragon, called a drunk. This kind of flag was approved in 1972. The state banner that existed before it differed only by the position of the dragon depicted on it.

The flag of Bhutan is, first of all, a symbol, every detail of which has its value. Yellow is the designation of the king's authority, and orange indicates the country's belonging to the Buddhist faith. The dragon holds in its paws precious stones - a designation of prosperity, and he himself is the main symbol of the country. On the flag, the dragon is depicted as a growling with an ulterior motive. His roar is like a thunderclap and is designed to protect the state and people.

National Emblem

Bhutan is the kingdom of the dragon, and the white dragon we know is also present on the arms of this state. There are even two such dragons. The coat of arms is round in shape, in its center is a lotus flower - a symbol of purity and innocence. It is framed by precious stones - the designation of supreme power. The religious symbol of the coat of arms is the Vajra, it expresses the strength of spirit and faith.

As you can see, both the flag and the arms of the country once again emphasize the enormous influence that religion has on the Kingdom of Bhutan and its people.

Interesting Facts

• There is also a chemical element called butane, but this is just a mere coincidence. The state in Asia does not have the slightest relation to it.
• Many houses in Bhutan show the image of phallus. Ancient faith says that they drive away evil spirits and bring good luck.
• Since 2004, the sale and use of tobacco products have been completely banned here.
• The Kingdom of Bhutan did not have its own post office until 1962.
• Buddhist monks here begin to prepare for their spiritual duties from the age of six.
• Until 1999, there was a ban on television and the Internet on the territory of the state.
• Bhutan is ruled by the youngest King Jigme Kesar Namguel Wangchuk born in 1980. He became ruler after the abdication of his father from the throne in 2006, and was crowned in 2008. The monarch married an ordinary student.
• "Country of Happiness" is what this state calls it. "Gross national happiness" - here it is the main commensurator of economic development. This concept was introduced by the 4th king of Bhutan in 1972. Hearing this name, many tourists immediately want to visit this state in Asia and take a "piece of happiness" in the form of a souvenir.