General Information
Location and Geography
Bhutan is a small, landlocked kingdom nestled in the Eastern Himalayas between India and China. It covers an area of approximately 38,394 square kilometers, characterized by stunning mountainous terrain, deep valleys, and dense forests. The country ranges in altitude from about 200 meters in the southern plains to over 7,000 meters in the northern Himalayan peaks.
Capital and Major Cities
The capital city is Thimphu, the political and economic center of Bhutan. Other major towns include Paro, home to the country’s only international airport; Punakha, known for its historic dzong (fortress); and Phuentsholing, the primary border town with India.
Population
Bhutan has a population of roughly 800,000 people, predominantly of Tibetan and Nepali ethnic groups. The population is mostly rural, with agriculture as the primary occupation.
Government
Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy, with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck as the current monarch. The government operates under a parliamentary democracy established in 2008, balancing tradition with modern governance.
Official Language
The official language is Dzongkha, which uses the Tibetan script. English is widely used in education, government, and tourism.
Religion
The dominant religion is Vajrayana Buddhism, deeply influencing Bhutanese culture, festivals, and daily life. Hinduism is also practiced, mainly among the southern ethnic communities.
Climate
Bhutan’s climate varies widely depending on altitude. The southern plains have a subtropical climate, while the higher altitudes experience temperate to alpine conditions. The country experiences four distinct seasons, with monsoon rains from June to August.
Time Zone
Bhutan follows Bhutan Time (BTT), which is UTC +6 hours.
International Dialing Code
The country code for Bhutan is +975.
