Looking to boost your knowledge of the world and your chances of being crowned the next pub quiz champion? Why not start with these 20 fun facts about Bhutan?
1. Where is Bhutan?
Bhutan is a small landlocked country in Asia, on the edge of the Himalayas. It is bordered by China and India.
2. Here’s what you need to know if you’re flying here.
The coordinates for Bhutan are 27.4170° N, 90.4350° E.
3. Get dialing!
If you’re traveling to Bhutan, make sure you pass the international dialing code on to your friends and family so that they can keep up with your adventures – it’s +975.
4. It’s a hilly territory!
The terrain here is mostly mountainous, with valleys and flat plains in the central and southern regions.
5. Bhutan is impressively large.
The total land area of Bhutan is 17,954 square miles (46,500 square kilometres).
6. However, few people actually live here!
Bhutan’s population was 771,612 in 2020.
7. What is the capital of Bhutan?
The capital is Thimphu which has a population of 114,551 (2017).
8. Life is long and prosperous in Bhutan.
The average life span here is 71.78 years (2019).
9. No smoking – we mean it!
Bhutan is the only country in the world where the sale of tobacco is illegal!
10. They’re also missing a few roadside staples.
Thimphu is also one of only two Asian capitals to have no traffic lights on its roads. One was installed, but promptly removed and replaced by traffic officers!
11. Learn the body lingo!
Unlike many eastern countries, it is customary to refuse offers of food by placing your hands over your mouth in Bhutan!
12. Unclimbed yet beautiful.
Bhutan is home to the highest unclimbed peak in the world! The government banned mountaineers from ascending any part of Gangkhar Puensum above 19,685ft because it is considered so sacred.
13. What do people speak in Bhutan?
The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha.
14. Arrows at the ready!
Unusually, the national sports of Bhutan are darts and archery!
15. You can normally spend one of two currencies here.
Bhutanese Ngultrum is the official currency here, although the Indian Rupee is also accepted.
16. Here are some industry facts about Bhutan.
Bhutan grows corn, rice, citrus fruits and root crops and produces dairy products.
Its industry consists of wood products, cement, processed fruits and alcoholic beverages – quite a mixture!
Bhutan also exports cardamom, gypsum, timber, handicrafts and electricity.
FAQs about Bhutan
What’s most impressive about Bhutan?
Bhutan remains - to date - the only country in the world considered carbon negative! The air out here is incredibly crisp and fresh.
Is alcohol available in Bhutan?
Industrial alcohol is available - but perhaps not the type you’re thinking of!
Is Bhutan safe to visit?
Yes - Bhutan is considered extremely safe to visit, with very low crime rates.
Do you know any interesting facts about Bhutan? Share them in the comments below!
