Asian countries are interesting for their original culture and amazing traditions. For tourists, they are especially attractive because of the hot climate, combined with picturesque nature. One of these countries - the Kingdom of Bhutan - is famous for its unique traditions and customs, which 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 population of the country is approximately 700 thousand people. Of these, 80% are rural residents.
Bhutan on the world map occupies a 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 ethno-cultural border.
Climate enoughas diverse as the vegetation. This is due not to the territorial latitude of the country, but to the landscape features of the location of one or another of its territories.
Literally, the name of the country is translated as "the outskirts of Tibet". Bhutan surprises travelers with picturesque views and outlandish, one might even say, primitive social organization. Companions of Buddhism are most interested in visiting this country. Here, away from the noise of the world, they can find true peace.
Bhutanese are good-natured and hospitable people, they are always happy to welcome guests, but at the same time they do not perceive foreign culture, but sacredly protect their history and traditions.
Meaning of religion
The Kingdom of Bhutan honors its religion. She is given a special place in the life of the state and the 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 also Old Believers in Bhutan. People who adhere to a religion that existed in these territories even before the advent of Buddhism. This religion is called Bon. It is based on the cult of nature.
Not quite the usual capital
The capital of Bhutan - the city of Thimphu - for us, modern urbanized citizens, will resemble a large village. There are no tall buildings of gray concrete and plate glass, no traffic lights, no freeways filled with cars.
The town is located at an altitude of 2400 meters above sea level in the valley of the Thimphu-Chhu River. 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. The architecture of Thimphu is based on ancient traditions. Everywhere you can see the bright facades of buildings and sharp roof spiers rising into the sky.
The symbol of the capital is Trashi-Cho-Dzong, which means "fortress of blessed religion". The 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 chosen by 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 the laws, and now the commander-in-chief can himself be removed from the throne if the people's representatives show distrust towards him.
The Council of Ministers has an executive function, also under the leadership of the king. Ministers are elected from a list of candidates proposed by members of Parliament, by secret ballot.
The official language of the country is Bhotiya or Dzongke.
Interestingly, the country of Bhutan does not have its own constitution. The main legal act of the state is the Royal Decree on the organization of the National Assembly, adopted back in 1953.
The Law of Bhutanbased on religious laws. Issues of marriages, divorces, adoptions are decided based on Buddhist or Hindu religious law.
There are many provisions in Bhutanese legislation to protect its culture and traditions. For example, it is not allowed to erect buildings and structures that differ from the local architectural course. Even new houses are built on the motives and forms of existing ancient buildings.
Flag of the Kingdom of Bhutan
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, a white dragon is depicted, called the Druk. This type of flag was approved in 1972. The state banner that existed before this differed only 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 is the symbol of the power of the king, and orange indicates the country's belonging to the Buddhist faith. The dragon holds precious stones in its paws - a symbol of we alth, and the dragon itself is the main symbol of the country. On the flag, the dragon is depicted growling for a reason. His roar is like thunder and is designed to protect the state and people.
National coat of arms
Bhutan is the kingdom of the dragon, and the familiar white dragon is also present on the coat of arms 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. It is framed with precious stones - a designation of supreme power. religiousthe symbol of the coat of arms is the Vajra, it expresses the strength of the spirit and faith.
As you can see, both the flag and the coat of arms of the country once again emphasize the great influence that religion has on the Kingdom of Bhutan and its people.
Interesting facts
- There is also an organic compound called butane, but that's just a coincidence. The state in Asia has nothing to do with him.
- On many houses in Bhutan you can see the image of phalluses. Ancient belief says that they ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.
- Since 2004, the sale and use of tobacco products have been completely banned here.
- The Kingdom of Bhutan did not have its own post office until 1962.
- Buddhist monks here start preparing for their spiritual duties from the age of six.
- Until 1999, there was a ban on television and the Internet on the territory of the state.
- Bhutan is ruled by the youngest king, Jigme Kesar Namguel Wangchuck, born in 1980. Became ruler after his father's abdication in 2006, and was crowned in 2008. The monarch married an ordinary student.
- "Country of Happiness" - this is how this state is also called. “Gross National Happiness” is the main measure of economic development here. This concept was introduced by the 4th King of Bhutan in 1972. Hearing this name, many tourists immediately want to visit this state in Asia and take a "piece of happiness" in the form of a souvenir.
