Interesting Facts about Bhutan
Bhutan Interesting Facts
Bhutan is a country in Asia. Officially the Kingdom of Bhutan.
Interesting Facts & Things to Know about Bhutan
Bhutan is a small, landlocked country in the Himalayas, known for its stunning landscapes, unique culture, and focus on happiness. Here are some interesting facts about Bhutan:
1. Bhutan Measures Success by Happiness, Not GDP
Instead of using Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Bhutan measures its progress through Gross National Happiness (GNH), which focuses on sustainable development, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and good governance.
2. It’s the Only Carbon-Negative Country in the World
Bhutan absorbs more carbon dioxide than it produces, thanks to its strict environmental policies and vast forests, which cover over 70% of the country.
3. The Capital, Thimphu, Has No Traffic Lights
Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, is one of the few capitals in the world without traffic lights. Instead, police officers direct traffic by hand at busy intersections.
4. Bhutan Has Never Been Colonized
Unlike many other countries in Asia, Bhutan has never been colonized and has maintained its independence for centuries.
5. Visitors Must Pay a Daily Tourism Fee
To preserve its culture and environment, Bhutan has a "High-Value, Low-Impact" tourism policy, requiring visitors to pay a daily sustainable development fee of $100 to $200.
6. The National Dress is Worn Daily
Bhutanese people proudly wear their traditional attire:
- Men wear the Gho, a knee-length robe.
- Women wear the Kira, a long, elegant dress.
7. Home to One of the World’s Most Dangerous Airports
Paro International Airport is one of the most challenging airports in the world to land at, as it is surrounded by towering Himalayan mountains. Only a few highly trained pilots are allowed to fly there.
8. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery is a Breathtaking Landmark
The Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery) is a sacred Buddhist site built on a cliffside at 3,120 meters (10,240 feet) above sea level. It is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and photographed landmarks.
9. Smoking is Banned in Bhutan
Bhutan is the first country in the world to completely ban the sale and production of tobacco products. However, individuals can import limited amounts for personal use.
10. Television and Internet Were Introduced in 1999
Bhutan was one of the last countries in the world to introduce television and the internet, as the government wanted to protect its culture from outside influences.
Conclusion
Bhutan is a country of rich traditions, breathtaking nature, and a deep focus on happiness and sustainability. With its commitment to environmental protection and cultural preservation, Bhutan remains one of the most unique places on Earth.
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