Bhutan is a country that stands out for its commitment to cultural and environmental preservation, guided by its unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness. It continues to balance modernization with the preservation of its traditional values and pristine environment.
List of National and Public Holidays fo Bhutan, Asia in the year 2024
- Winter Solstice (Nyilo): Wednesday, 3 January 2024
- Traditional Day of Offering: Friday, 12 January 2024
- Losar New Year: Saturday, 10 February 2024, to Sunday, 11 February 2024
- Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the King: Wednesday, 21 February 2024, to Friday, 23 February 2024
- Shabdrung Kuchoe: Thursday, 18 April 2024
- Birth Anniversary of Third Druk Gyalpo: Thursday, 2 May 2024
- Lord Buddha’s Parinirvana: Thursday, 23 May 2024
- Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche: Sunday, 16 June 2024
- First Sermon of Lord Buddha: Wednesday, 10 July 2024
- Thimphu Drupchen Dromchoe: Monday, 9 September 2024
- Thimphu Tshechu: Friday, 13 September 2024, to Sunday, 15 September 2024*
- Blessed Rainy Day: Sunday, 22 September 2024
- Dashain Festival: Saturday, 12 October 2024
- Coronation of His Majesty the King: Friday, 1 November 2024
- Birth Anniversary of Fourth Druk Gyalpo: Monday, 11 November 2024
- Descending Day of Lord Buddha: Friday, 22 November 2024
- National Day: Tuesday, 17 December 2024
Note: Date with asterisk is subject to change based on the lunar calendar
History
- Early History: Bhutan’s history is deeply intertwined with Tibetan Buddhism. The region was unified in the 17th century under the rule of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
- Monarchy Establishment: The Wangchuck dynasty established the monarchy in 1907, ushering in a period of relative peace and stability.
- Modernization and Opening Up: Began a controlled process of modernization in the 1960s under King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and gradually opened up to the outside world.
Geography
- Location: Landlocked in the Eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south.
- Terrain: Dominated by steep mountains and deep valleys, with a rich biodiversity. The country transitions from subtropical plains in the south to subalpine forests and snowy mountains in the north.
- Climate: Varies dramatically based on elevation, from subtropical in the south to temperate in the highlands and polar-type climate in the mountains.
Culture
- Buddhist Tradition: Vajrayana Buddhism is the state religion and deeply influences culture, art, and daily life.
- Festivals and Customs: Known for colorful festivals (Tshechus) featuring masked dances and religious performances. Traditional dress (Gho for men, Kira for women) is commonly worn.
- Architecture: Unique Bhutanese architecture is notable in Dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and houses, characterized by elaborately painted woodwork and a lack of nails or iron bars.
Economy
- Hydropower and Agriculture: Economy predominantly based on agriculture and forestry. Hydropower is a significant source of revenue, much of which is exported to India.
- Gross National Happiness: Bhutan is known for its unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which prioritizes holistic well-being and environmental conservation over mere economic growth.
- Tourism: A controlled tourism policy promotes sustainable and high-value tourism, with visitors experiencing Bhutan’s unspoiled natural environment and rich cultural heritage.
Society
- Population: A small population with a mix of ethnic groups, including the Ngalop, Sharchop, and Lhotshampa.
- Languages: Dzongkha is the official language, with several regional languages spoken.
- Education and Healthcare: Free and universal education and healthcare systems. The country has made significant strides in improving literacy and health indicators.
Environmental Focus
- Conservation Policies: Environmental conservation is a core tenet of GNH. Bhutan is the world’s only carbon-negative country, with extensive forest cover and environmental protection measures.
- Biodiversity: Home to rich biodiversity, including many rare and endangered species in its national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Government and Politics
- Constitutional Monarchy: Transitioned to a constitutional monarchy in 2008, with the King serving as the head of state and a democratically elected government.
- International Relations: Bhutan maintains a policy of cautious international engagement, with strong ties to India and a focus on maintaining its cultural and environmental integrity.
Tourism
- Cultural and Ecotourism: Offers unique experiences through cultural tours, trekking, and visiting historic sites like the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Sustainable Approach: Tourism is carefully managed under a high-value, low-impact approach to protect the country’s natural and cultural heritage.
C
