Overview of Bhutan

Profile

Most of the country is covered by 3,000m-class mountains, with elevation difference ranging from 100m to 7,500m. Buddhist culture has been deeply rooted since ancient times, advancing unique modernization under national policy emphasizing tradition and nature conservation. Adopting Gross National Happiness (GNH) as policy indicator, tourism follows 'high quality, low quantity' principle.

Official name: Kingdom of Bhutan
Common name: Bhutan
Numeric code: 064
Alpha-3 code: BTN
Alpha-2 code: BT
Population: 790,000 (2023 estimate) (2023)
Population density: 20
Primary languages: Dzongkha
Major religions: Tibetan Buddhism (Drukpa lineage)
National anthem: Druk tsendhen
Calling code: +975
Internet TLD: .bt

History

Wangchuck Dynasty established in 1907, transitioned to constitutional monarchy with written constitution enacted in 2008.

In 17th century, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal unified feudal lords and established Dzong culture. After Anglo-Bhutanese War in late 19th century, Ugyen Wangchuck ascended as first king in 1907. 1949 Indo-Bhutan Treaty established cooperation with India on diplomacy and security. Joined UN in 1971, television ban lifted in 1999. Democratization completed in 2008 with National Assembly elections and constitution promulgation.

Geography & climate

Diverse ecosystems arranged vertically by altitude from southern subtropical plains to central deep river valleys to northern peaks holding eternal snow.

Subtropical humid to alpine tundra vertical distribution climate

Area: Asia / 38394 km²
Capital: Thimphu
Largest city: Thimphu
Coastal status: No
Bordering countries: India, China

Natural resources

Abundant hydropower resources, Forest, Limestone, Dolomite, Gypsum, Copper ore, Coal, Magnesite, Calcite, Medicinal plants, Cordyceps, Fresh water springs

Politics

Government: Constitutional monarchy

Economy

Currency: Ngultrum (BTN)

GDP (nominal): 2.6 billion US Dollar (2022)

GDP (PPP): 8.6 billion International Dollar (2022)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Dzongkha

Time zone: Bhutan Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Ngalop (Western Tibetan), Sharchop (Eastern), Lhotshampa (Nepali), Bumthap, Brokpa, Layap, Tamang

Life expectancy

72.0

Literacy rate

71

National sports

Datsé (Archery), Soccer, Cricket, Kabaddi, Badminton