| Area |
38,364 sq km (14,812 sq miles). |
| Population |
2,232,291 (2005). |
| Capital |
Thimphu- population 716,214 (2002). |
| Climate |
There are four distinct seasons similar in their divisions to those of Western Europe. The Monsoon occurs between June and August when the temperature is normally between 8° - 21° C (46° - 70 °F). Temperatures drop dramatically with increase in altitude. Days are usually very pleasant (average about 10° C/ 50° F) with clear skies and sunshine. Nights are cold and require heavenly woollen clothing, particularly in winter. Generally October, November and April to mid-June are the best times to visit- rainfall are at a minimal and temperatures are conducive to active days of sightseeing. The foothills are also very pleasant during the winter. |
| Language |
Dzongkha is the official language. A large number of dialects are spoken, owing to the physical isolation of many villages. Sharchop Kha, from eastern Bhutan, is the most widely spoken. Nepali is common in the south of the country. English has been the language of educational instructio since 1964 and is widely spoken. |
| Religion |
The Tantric form of Mahayana Buddhism (Drukpa Kagyu) is the state religion; the majority of Bhutanese people follow the Drukpa school of the Kagyupa sect. Those living in the south are mainly Hindu. |
| Time |
GMT + 6
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| Highlights |
Bhutan first opened to tourists in 1974 - this has been a conscious approach by the Royal Government to preserve the country's environment, culture and conserve the traditional Buddhist lifestyle of the Bhutanese people - it is this that makes it such a unique destination. Places to visit include the capital Thimphu, at 2400m where the Tashichhodzong, the main religious and administrative centre of the country is housed. Punakha, the old capital of Bhutan is situated in a fertile valley where crops and fruit grow and houses many sacred temples. Punakha Dzong sits at the junction of the 2 rivers and houses many sacred temples. Paro Valley, to the west of Thimphu is highly recommended where The Taktshang Monastery, 'Tigers Nest' clings to the cliff of a rock at 800 meters from the valley floor. Trekking around the valleys and mountain gorges is the best way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Bhutan. Trout fishing in the pristine rivers is another highlight.
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| Country Facts |
Bhutan is situated in the eastern Himalayas of the Indian Sub Continent bordered to the north by China and to the south, east and west by India. There are three distinct climatic regions: The foothills, where the weather and vegetation is tropical including many species of wild orchid. Deer, lion, leopard and the rare golden monkey can be found. The Inner Himalayan region where the climate is temperate and area is rich in deciduous forests. The wildlife includes bear, boar and sambar. The High Himalayan region is cold due to the altitude, which also makes it thinly populated. However, the steep slopes of the mountains are home to many species of animals including snow leopards and musk deer. |