Bhutan

Bhutan occupies steep valleys and snowcapped peaks in the eastern Himalayas. More than 70 percent of the land remains forested, and elevation ranges from subtropical foothills to alpine meadows above 7,000 meters. Rivers such as the Wang Chhu and Punakha Chhu carry glacier melt to India, providing white-water rafting and hydropower potential. Capital Thimphu sits in a high valley without traffic lights, while Paro houses the only international airport and cliff-side Tiger's Nest Monastery.

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy. King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck serves as head of state, and citizens elect the National Assembly and National Council. The constitution emphasizes Gross National Happiness as a guiding principle, measuring cultural preservation, environmental protection, good governance, and equitable development. Dzongkhag districts and gewog village blocks manage schools, clinics, and road maintenance.

The kingdom remained isolated for centuries, protecting its culture from outside influence. Reforms in the late 20th century introduced modern education, infrastructure, and a written constitution adopted in 2008. Bhutan is a member of the United Nations and SAARC and works closely with India on hydropower projects and trade.

The economy centers on hydropower exports, agriculture, and tourism. Farmers grow red rice, chilies, buckwheat, and maize on terraced slopes, and yak herders move between summer and winter pastures. Hydropower stations on fast rivers export electricity to India, and carefully managed tourism limits visitor numbers to protect the environment. Craftspeople weave textiles, carve wood, and paint intricate thangka scrolls sold in local markets.

Culture blends Buddhism with traditional architecture. Dzongs—fortress monasteries—serve as government offices and religious centers, and monks in crimson robes chant inside prayer halls. Festivals called tsechus feature masked dances, while families wear the gho or kira national dress during ceremonies. Meals often include red rice, ema datshi chili-and-cheese stew, and suja butter tea. Schools teach Dzongkha and English, and students learn to balance technology with respect for nature.