EN
Bhutan
OVERVIEW OF BHUTAN
Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia’s eastern Himalayas. Bhutan borders China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Bhutan is separated from Nepal by the Indian state of Sikkim, and from Bangladesh by the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal further south. Bhutan’s capital and largest city is Thimphu.
CULTURE
Bhutan has a rich and distinct cultural heritage that has largely survived due to its isolation from the rest of the world until the mid-twentieth century. The country’s culture and traditions are among the main draws for visitors. Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in its Buddhist heritage. Hinduism is the second most prevalent religion in Bhutan, with a strong presence in the southern regions. The government is making greater efforts to preserve and sustain the country’s current culture and traditions. Bhutan has been dubbed “The Last Shangri-La” due to its largely unspoiled natural environment and cultural heritage. Bhutan is the only country in the world where smoking and the sale of cigarettes are prohibited.
FESTIVAL
Bhutan’s festivals, or as they are known locally, ‘tshechu’, play a significant part in Bhutanese culture and history. They often act out historical events and are a chance for people to socialise, dress in their best gho (robes for men) and kira (clothes for women), cleanse themselves of bad karma and receive blessings.
CUISINE
Bhutanese cuisine is influenced by neighboring countries, particularly China, Tibet, and India, but retains its distinct flavor. The food here is less greasy than that of China and India, and it is spicier than that of most Tibetan restaurants. Rice and, increasingly, corn are the country’s main staple foods. During the colder months, meat, rice, and dried vegetable soups seasoned with chili and cheese are popular. Dairy foods, particularly butter and cheese from yaks and cows, are also popular, and as a result, the majority of milk is used to make butter and cheese. Butter tea, sweet soup, local rice wine, and beer are all popular beverages.
Ema datshi
Kewa datshi
Shamu datshi
Shakam ema datshi
Shakam paa
Shakam shukam datshi