Bhután

Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia located in the eastern Himalayas. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east and west. The capital and largest city is Thimphu. The country covers about 38,000 square kilometers and has a population of around 800,000.

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy. The king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, ascended the throne in 2006 and has overseen a transition to democracy. Since 2008 Bhutan has elected a parliament, with a prime minister as head of government. The prime minister is Lotay Tshering. The judiciary is independent and the king remains a symbol of unity and continuity.

Dzongkha is the official language; English is widely used in education and government. The population is predominantly Buddhist (Vajrayana), with a Hindu minority largely in the southern plains.

Economy and environment: Bhutan relies on hydropower, agriculture and forestry. Hydropower exports to India form a major revenue source. Tourism is developed under a policy of high-value, low-impact to protect culture and ecosystems. The country emphasizes environmental conservation and measures development through Gross National Happiness as a guiding concept.

Culture and history: Bhutan has a rich architectural and religious heritage, including dzongs and monasteries and annual tsechu festivals. Taktsang Palphug Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is a notable site. Historically a feudal society, Bhutan was unified in the early 20th century and introduced a constitutional monarchy in 2008.