About Bhutan
“Bhutan: Discover the Land of Happiness and Tranquility. Learn about Bhutan’s unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and its commitment to Gross National Happiness. Explore the kingdom’s serene monasteries, vibrant festivals, and eco-friendly practices. Immerse yourself in Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and experience the warmth and hospitality of its friendly people. Uncover the hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, where tradition meets modernity in perfect harmony.”
About Bhutan Culture and Society
Bhutan’s rich and unique cultural heritage has largely remained intact due to its self-imposed isolation from the rest of the world. Consequently, the lack of contact with the outside world has allowed the kingdom to evolve through the centuries into a distinct pattern of social and economic life. Moreover, unlike many countries, traditional arts, age-old ceremonies, festivals, social conduct, and structure are not mere remnants of a bygone age but are still practiced.
The cultural tour packages take you deep into the history and traditional practices of the Bhutanese people. Notably, the society strongly adheres to social principles known as Driglam namzha, which represent age-old social etiquette and a code of conduct. Furthermore, with the passage of time, the Bhutanese traditional etiquette and value system have become deeply rooted in its society, thereby significantly enriching the country’s cultural identity. Upon landing at Paro airport, you will observe all guides adorned with white scarves, symbolizing a warm welcome, accompanied by a slight bow as a gesture of respect.
About Bhutanese People
Bhutan is a rich mosaic of cultures, lifestyles, languages, and belief systems. Consequently, this diversity can be attributed to the historical settlement patterns of the Bhutanese community. The community established themselves in isolated valleys with limited interaction among one another. As a result of this isolation, distinct dialects, customs, and cultural patterns emerged, fostering a strong sense of individuality and independence.
The majority of Bhutanese people belong to a homogeneous group, albeit divided into three main ethnic groups. Firstly, the Sharchops, hailing from the east, primarily inhabit the eastern part of Bhutan. Additionally, the Ngalongs, originating from the west, are settled in the western region, while the Lhotsampas reside in southern Bhutan. Interestingly, Bhutan does not adhere to a rigid class system, and social and educational opportunities remain unaffected by one’s social rank or birth. The third king of Bhutan abolished serfdom in 1956 through a royal edict, further emphasizing equality within the society. It is worth noting that monks hold a revered status and play a crucial role in community life, as their representatives are present on all significant occasions.
About Bhutanese Dress
The traditional dress for Bhutanese men is the gho which is a knee-length robe tied at the waist by a fabric belt known as the keyra. Women wear an ankle-length dress known as the Kira, secured by a woven kyra around the waist and fastened at the shoulder with silver brooches called Koma. A long sleeve blouse, wonju is worn underneath the Kira, and a jacket called tego, worn on the outside. Thsoglam or traditional footwear for both men and women is knee-high silk boots with leather soles, but these are now worn only by men on the festive occasions.
About Bhutan Food and Drinks
Rice is the staple diet in the lower region while at higher altitudes wheat and buckwheat are a staple food. In Bumthang Khulay (Buckwheat cakes) and puta( buckwheat noodles) are also eaten along with rice. The diet also includes pork, beef, yak meat, chicken, and mutton. Traditional Bhutanese food always features spicy red and green chilies, either dried or fresh. The favorite Bhutanese dishes are ema datshi (chilly with cheese), Shamu datshi (Mushroom with cheese), Kewa datshi (Potato
Traditional Sports
The people of Bhutan love sports. Traditional sports and games are an essential part of our national culture. We participate in various traditional games and sports such as archery, degor (similar to discus), Pungdo (shot put), Khuru (dart), soksum (javelin), and keshi (wrestling), which are integral to our way of life. Archery, our national sport, is a competitive and popular recreational activity enjoyed by people of all ages. Bhutanese traditional archery is a social event, and we regularly organize competitions. The matches commence with a traditional breakfast accompanied by a lady singing.
About Bhutan Language
In 1971, Dzongkha, meaning the language of Dzongs, transitioned from being exclusively spoken in western Bhutan to becoming the national language. It is now widely spoken throughout the country. Alongside Dzongkha, there are three other dominant languages: Bumthangpa, spoken in Bumthang; Tshangla, spoken in eastern Bhutan; and Lhotsamkha, spoken in southern Bhutan. Bhutan also boasts over 19 different dialects, which share very few similarities. English holds a prominent position in the main towns, being widely spoken and serving as the medium of instruction in schools and offices across Bhutan.
Bhutan Music and Dance
The performing arts in Bhutan, such as music and dance, embody the country’s traditional culture. Dance, songs, traditional instrumental music, and dramatic performances based on religious personalities play an essential role in national, village, or local functions and festivals. Bhutanese culture is significantly influenced by Buddhism, and its music features traditional genres like Zhungdra (traditional or classical song) and Boedra (folk song). Folk music and dance flourished during the reign of Zhabdrung
Bhutan Festivals
Bhutan is a country of festivals secular ans religious ones. The national day, Birthday of Kings, Coronation day, new year celebration are secular festivals. The most popular festivals are Dromches and Tshechus. which are held every year in different parts of the country. The festivals are important religious and social gatherings and by attending them one gains merit and blessings. People turn up for the festivals in their finest clothes and jewelry. It is said that Country can be defined by festival.
Bhutan Culture and Its People
Bhutan, despite being a small and remote country, boasts an astonishingly vibrant culture and a rich tapestry of traditions that have endured since time immemorial. Remarkably, Bhutan stands as the sole nation where these traditions and culture have not only survived but continue to thrive even in the face of the modern world. The culture itself serves as a priceless asset to the country, acting as a protective shield for its sovereignty. It permeates every aspect of life in Bhutan, providing a constant backdrop against which daily life unfolds—a source of immense pride for every Bhutanese individual. The citizens have consistently defended the value of their culture, recognizing its vital importance and the responsibility that falls upon each Bhutanese to honor and uphold its cherished values and traditions.
