| People and Culture |
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Bhutan has an ancient culture with a strong Tibetan influence and traditions have remained unchanged for centuries. The Bhutanese are very friendly and hospitable people. The large majority of Bhutanese people are homogeneous group divided linguistically into three broad sub-groups. These are Sharchop(people from East), Ngalong (people from west) and Lhotshamp ( people from south) and often speak some English. Because of the isolation of many communities, there are many different dialects, dress codes and customs which make a visit all the more fascinating. A benevolent and forward thinking Monarchy is determined to maintain these long held traditions and also offer its people free education and health services. National dress and a national code of building are enshrined in the Constitution and traditional practices are encouraged wherever possible.
Festivals Bhutanese festivals are mostly religious and spiritual occasion in honour of Guru Rimpochhe, “The precious Teacher” but for the people, it is a combination of prayer, blessing, rest and fun. Each district performs annual festival with their own (Tsechu & Dromche) that falls on the 10th day of the month of the Bhutanese calendar, lasting a few days and the entire population takes part with full spirit. The mask dances are sacred and confer blessing on the people, while the families come in their best garments to be blessed & entertained, and to socialize. The festivals are performed round the year as the dates vary from one district to another. Buddhism - Bhutan's State Religion Bhutan is the only country in the world to retain the Vajrayana Tantric form of Mahayana Buddhism as its religion. The Buddhist faith has played a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its people. In the Buddhist tradition, the hills are dotted with clusters of multi coloured prayer flags sending continuous prayers to the heavens. The Bhutanese believe that every flutter of the printed flags sends another divine message and gives grace to the sender. Everywhere you will see chortens(stupas), small water driven prayer wheels and massive golden roofed Dzongs, which serve as both the spiritual and administrative centre for the whole country. Bhutan offers visitors a range of cultural experiences. Entry to Dzongs, monasteries, schools and other cultural institutions is permitted at certain times. |