Bhutan: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Bhutan

Bhutan is a small, landlocked kingdom on the eastern ridges of the Himalayas, between China and India. Steep mountains, deep valleys and thick forests cover almost the whole country. It is famous for its cliffside monasteries and for the idea of Gross National Happiness.

About Thimphu

Thimphu sits in the Wang Chhu river valley, more than 2,200 metres up in the Himalayas. It famously has no traffic lights, and its grand Tashichho Dzong fortress houses government offices.

Fun facts about Bhutan

1. Bhutan's own name, Druk Yul, means 'Land of the Thunder Dragon', and a dragon appears on its flag.
2. Gangkhar Puensum, at 7,570 metres, is the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
3. Bhutan's forests absorb more carbon dioxide than the whole country produces, so its emissions are 'net negative'.
4. The takin, a sturdy goat-antelope of the Himalayas, is Bhutan's national animal.
5. Archery became Bhutan's national sport in 1971, and archers aim at targets about 145 metres away.
6. The Tiger's Nest monastery clings to a cliff about 900 metres above the floor of the Paro valley.