Everything from Bhutan

Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom in South Asia, bordered by China to the north and India to the south. Known as the “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” Bhutan is famous for its dramatic mountains, valleys, and monasteries. Historically, it preserved independence by balancing relations with neighbouring powers and remains one of the few countries never colonised.

Bhutan became a constitutional monarchy in 2008, transitioning from absolute monarchy. The country emphasises Gross National Happiness as a development philosophy, prioritising cultural preservation and environmental sustainability over rapid modernisation.

With a population of about 780,000, Bhutan maintains strong Buddhist traditions. The capital, Thimphu, is the largest city, blending modern governance with monastic life. Bhutan’s policies have kept it relatively isolated, allowing it to preserve pristine landscapes and a distinctive cultural identity.

Bhutan is a country in the region Sandalsand has defined as South and Southeast Asia. There are introductions to this region and other regions in the Destinations menu.