Asian countries are interesting for their distinctive culture and amazing traditions. For tourists, they are especially attractive with a hot climate, combined with beautiful nature. One of these countries - the kingdom of Bhutan - is famous for its unique traditions and foundations that seem wonderful to modern people .
Introducing the Closed Kingdom
The country of Bhutan has recently become available for tourists. For a long time, the territory of the state, which is located on the slopes of the Himalayas, was completely isolated from the outside world. This was the reason that the people of Bhutan managed to carry through the centuries and preserve their original traditions and unique culture.
The country's population is approximately 700 thousand people. Of these, 80% are rural residents.
Bhutan on the world map takes place between the two most populous countries: China and India. Its territory is divided into three regions, which are different in relief. The Rinak mountain range divides Bhutan into East and West. This is not only a geographical, but also an ethnocultural border.
The climate is quite diverse, as is the vegetation. This is due not to the territorial breadth of the country, but to the landscape features of the location of one or another of its territory.
Literally, the name of the country is translated as "the outskirts of Tibet." Bhutan is surprised by travelers with its picturesque views and outlandish, one might even say, primitive social organization. The most interesting is visiting Buddhist associates visiting this country. Here, far from worldly noise, they can find true peace.
Bhutanese are a good-natured and hospitable people, they are always glad to welcome guests, but at the same time they do not perceive a foreign culture, but sacredly protect their history and traditions.
The meaning of religion
The Kingdom of Bhutan honors its religion. She has a special place in the life of the state and people. The main religion here is Tibetan Buddhism. Even now, when the country has become open to tourists, not one of them, under any circumstances, can get into the dzongs. These fortified monasteries are the basis for the preservation of Buddhist spiritual values and a permanent place for ritual ceremonies.
There are Old Believers in Bhutan. People who adhere to the religion that existed in these territories before the advent of Buddhism. This religion is called bon. It is based on the cult of nature.
Not quite familiar capital
The capital of Bhutan - the city of Thimphu - for us, modern urbanized citizens, will resemble a large village. There are no tall buildings made of gray concrete and mirror glass, no traffic lights, no motorways full of cars.
The town is located at an altitude of 2400 meters above sea level in the Thimphu Chhu River Valley. Its population does not exceed 90 thousand people. This is perhaps the most unusual capital of the country. The city is very atmospheric and has its own unique flavor. Thimphu architecture is based on ancient traditions. Everywhere you can see the bright facades of buildings and sharp roof spiers soaring into the sky.
The symbol of the capital is Trashi-Chkho-Dzong, which means "fortress of the blessed religion." Dzong used to play the role of a defensive structure, but now it is the palace of the Supreme Lama.
Government and laws
The legislative function of the state is carried out by the king and the National Assembly, which consists of 150 people. 105 of them are elected in state elections, 10 are appointed by Buddhist monks, and another 35 are the choice of the king. Until 1969, the monarch could veto absolutely any decision of the National Assembly. But there was a change in laws, and now the commander-in-chief can himself be removed from the throne if the people's representatives reveal distrust of him.
The executive function has the Council of Ministers, also under the leadership of the king. Ministers are elected from the list of proposed candidates by members of parliament by secret ballot.
The official language of the country is bhotia or zon-ke.
Interestingly, the country of Bhutan does not have its own constitution. The main legislative act of the state is the Royal Decree on the organization of the National Assembly, adopted back in 1953.
The legal norms of Bhutan are based on religious laws. Matters of marriages, divorces, adoptions are decided based on Buddhist or Hindu religious law.
There are many points in the legislation of Bhutan in defense of its culture and traditions. For example, it is not permitted to erect buildings and structures that differ from the local architectural course. Even new houses are built based on the motives and forms of existing ancient buildings.
Kingdom of Bhutan flag
Bhutan is a country whose official flag consists of two triangles, yellow on top and orange on the bottom. In the center against their background is a white dragon called a druk. This type of flag was approved in 1972. The state flag that existed before this differed except in the position of the dragon depicted on it.
The flag of Bhutan is, first of all, a symbol, each detail of which has its own meaning. Yellow color is the designation of the king’s power, and orange indicates the country's belonging to the Buddhist faith. The dragon holds gems in its paws - a sign of prosperity, and he himself is the main symbol of the country. On the flag the dragon is depicted with a growl of ulterior motive. His roar is similar to thunder and is called to defend the state and people.
National emblem
Bhutan is the kingdom of the dragon, and the white dragon we know is also present on the emblem of this state. There are even two such dragons. The emblem has a round shape, in its center is a lotus flower - a symbol of purity and innocence. Gemstones frame it - the designation of supreme power. The religious symbol of the coat of arms is Vajra, it expresses the strength of spirit and faith.
As you can see, both the flag and the emblem of the country once again emphasize the enormous influence that religion has on the Kingdom of Bhutan and its people.
Interesting Facts
- There is also an organic compound called butane, but this is just a coincidence. The state in Asia has not the slightest relation to it.
- On many houses in Bhutan you can see the image of the phallus. The ancient faith says that they drive away evil spirits and bring good luck.
- Since 2004, the sale and use of tobacco products has been completely banned here.
- The Kingdom of Bhutan did not have its own mail until 1962.
- Buddhist monks here begin to prepare for their spiritual duties from the age of six.
- Until 1999, there was a ban on television and the Internet in the state.
- Bhutan is ruled by the youngest king Jigme Kesar Namguel Wangchuk born in 1980. He became a ruler after his father abdicated in 2006, and was crowned in 2008. The monarch married an ordinary student.
- "Country of happiness" - this is also called this state. "Gross national happiness" - here it is the main co-meter of economic development. This concept was introduced by the 4th king of Bhutan in 1972. Hearing such a name, many tourists immediately want to visit this state in Asia and take a "piece of happiness" in the form of a souvenir.