Bhutan Newspapers and News Sites
Bhutan, officially known as the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas in South Asia. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan.
Bhutan is known for its unique approach to development, which emphasizes Gross National Happiness (GNH) over Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This approach aims to balance economic development with environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
Bhutan has a population of around 770,000 people, and its official language is Dzongkha. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on Buddhism. Many traditional practices, such as the wearing of national dress, archery, and the construction of dzongs (fortresses), are still an important part of everyday life in Bhutan.
The Bhutanese economy is largely based on agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Himalayan mountains and diverse wildlife, which attract many tourists each year.
Some notable aspects of Bhutanese culture include:
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Buddhism: Buddhism is the dominant religion in Bhutan, and many Bhutanese follow the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. Monasteries and temples are an important part of the country’s cultural heritage, and many festivals and ceremonies are associated with Buddhism.
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National Dress: The national dress of Bhutan, known as the gho for men and kira for women, is a unique and colorful garment that is worn for formal occasions and everyday wear.
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Archery: Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and is deeply ingrained in Bhutanese culture. Archery tournaments and competitions are held throughout the country, and the sport is often accompanied by singing, dancing, and other festivities.
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Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is largely based on rice, vegetables, and meat, and is known for its spicy flavor. Some popular dishes include ema datshi (a spicy cheese and chili dish), phaksha paa (a pork dish), and momos (steamed dumplings).
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Festivals: Bhutanese festivals, known as tshechus, are held throughout the year and are an important part of Bhutanese culture. These festivals often involve colorful dances, music, and other cultural activities, and are a time for people to come together and celebrate.
Overall, Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality, and the country’s emphasis on GNH has helped to preserve its unique cultural heritage in the face of modernization and globalization.