Bhutan

The National Flag of Bhutan

The national flag of Bhutan is a distinctive symbol that represents the country’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual traditions. The flag of Bhutan, commonly known as the Bhutan flag, features a powerful image of the Thunder Dragon (Druk) against a backdrop of two vibrant colors. Each element of the flag holds deep significance, reflecting the values and history of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Bhutan Flag Clip Art Images, Backgrounds, and Wallpapers

Free Download of the Bhutan Flag Image

To download an image of the Bhutan flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.

For Apple (iPhone/iPad):

• Press and hold the image.
• A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”

For Android:

• Press and hold the image.
• From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”

This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.

Design and Colors of the Bhutan Flag

The Bhutan flag features a unique design that is rich in symbolism and meaning:

• Background Colors: The flag is diagonally divided from the lower hoist-side corner to the upper fly-side corner. The upper triangle is golden yellow, and the lower triangle is orange. The division represents the harmony between the secular and spiritual power.
• Thunder Dragon (Druk): Centered along the diagonal dividing line is a white dragon, known as Druk in the Bhutanese language. The dragon symbolizes the name of the country in Bhutanese (Druk Yul, meaning “Land of the Thunder Dragon”) and represents the purity and loyalty of the nation.
• White Color of the Dragon: The white color of the dragon signifies the purity of inner thoughts and deeds that unite all the people of Bhutan.
• Dragon’s Jewels: The dragon grasps jewels in its claws, which represent the wealth and perfection of the country.
• Golden Yellow: (#FFC000) Symbolizes the secular authority of the King, the leader of the nation, and represents the tradition of the Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King).
• Orange: (#FF5F00) Represents the Buddhist spiritual tradition, particularly the Drukpa Kagyu and Nyingma schools of Tibetan Buddhism practiced in Bhutan.

The Origins and Design of the Bhutan Flag

The flag of Bhutan has a rich history that reflects the nation’s unique identity, blending its spiritual heritage with the monarchy’s authority. The current design of the flag was standardized in 1969 and has remained a symbol of national pride and unity.

The Birth of a National Symbol

The first version of the Bhutan flag was introduced in 1949 during the signing of the Indo-Bhutan Treaty. The design has evolved over time, but the key elements—the dragon and the two background colors—have remained consistent, symbolizing the country’s traditions and values.

Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism

The symbolism of the Bhutan flag is deeply rooted in the nation’s culture and beliefs:

• Dragon (Druk): The dragon represents Bhutan’s original name, Druk Yul, and embodies the strength and unity of the country.
• Yellow: Symbolizes the secular authority of the King and the country’s allegiance to the monarchy.
• Orange: Represents the Buddhist spiritual tradition, reflecting the importance of Buddhism in Bhutanese culture.

The Central Design Elements

The central design elements of the Bhutan flag include:

• Diagonal Division: The flag is divided diagonally, symbolizing the harmonious balance between secular and spiritual powers.
• White Dragon: The dragon’s white color signifies purity and the noble thoughts of the people. The jewels in its claws represent the wealth and prosperity of Bhutan.

Adoption and Official Recognition

The current design of the Bhutan flag was officially standardized in 1969 under the guidance of Queen Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck. The flag has since become an important national symbol, representing Bhutan’s sovereignty and cultural heritage.

The Flag in Modern Bhutanese Identity

Today, the Bhutan flag is a powerful symbol of national pride and unity. It is prominently displayed during national holidays and official events, such as National Day on December 17. The flag is also displayed in schools, government institutions, and by Bhutanese citizens, both at home and abroad, serving as a reminder of the nation’s rich history and cultural identity.

The Significance of the Bhutan Flag

The flag of Bhutan holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the nation’s unique blend of spiritual heritage and royal authority. Displaying the Bhutan flag is an act of patriotism and respect, and it is done according to specific traditions and on designated days that hold special meaning for the country.

When the Flag of Bhutan Can Be Displayed

The flag of Bhutan may be displayed on any day, especially during national holidays and important events. The flag should always be treated with respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It is flown on public buildings, in schools, at monasteries, and during official ceremonies. Citizens are also encouraged to display the flag at their homes during national celebrations.

Flag Days and National Holidays

In Bhutan, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:

• December 17 – National Day: This day commemorates the coronation of the first King of Bhutan, Ugyen Wangchuck, in 1907. National Day is the most significant holiday in Bhutan, marked by grand celebrations and the prominent display of the national flag.
• Birthdays of the Kings and Royal Family: The birthdays of the reigning King, His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and other members of the royal family are celebrated nationwide, with the flag playing a central role in the festivities.
• Other National Holidays: The flag is also displayed during religious festivals (Tshechus), Coronation Day, and other important cultural events.

Love for the Flag and Patriotism

The Bhutan flag is not just a national symbol; it is a representation of the pride and love that Bhutanese people have for their country. The flag’s design embodies the nation’s spiritual traditions and respect for the monarchy. Bhutanese citizens demonstrate their love for the flag and their patriotism in various ways. During national holidays, the flag is displayed prominently on homes, public buildings, and monasteries. Schools instill a sense of respect for the flag from a young age, often including flag ceremonies as part of the daily routine. The display of the flag during important events reinforces the strong sense of national identity and unity among the Bhutanese people.

Bhutan Flag Emoji Codes

1. Unicode Code Points

• Unicode: U+1F1E7 U+1F1F9
• UTF-16: D83C DDE7 D83C DDF9

2. HTML Entities

• HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇧🇹
• HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇧🇹

3. CSS

content: "\1F1E7\1F1F9";

4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java

// JavaScript Example
const bhutanFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF9";

// Java Example
String bhutanFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF9";

5. PHP & Ruby

// PHP Example
$bhutanFlag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1F9}";

// Ruby Example
bhutan_flag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1F9}"

6. Perl

my $bhutanFlag = "\x{1F1E7}\x{1F1F9}";

7. Python

bhutan_flag = "\U0001F1E7\U0001F1F9"

8. C#

string bhutanFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF9";

9. Swift

let bhutanFlag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1F9}"

10. Objective-C

NSString *bhutanFlag = @"\U0001F1E7\U0001F1F9";

11. JSON

{
  "bhutanFlag": "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF9"
}

12. SQL

INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF9');

13. Shell Scripting (Bash)

bhutan_flag=$'\U1F1E7\U1F1F9'

14. Go (Golang)

bhutanFlag := "\U0001F1E7\U0001F1F9"

15. Kotlin

val bhutanFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDF9"

About Bhutan

Geography and Topography

Location and Geography

Bhutan is a landlocked country located in the Eastern Himalayas of South Asia. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. The geography of Bhutan is dominated by:

• High Himalayan peaks in the north, including Gangkhar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain in the world
• Subtropical plains and foothills in the south
• Dense forests covering over 70% of the country
• Deep river valleys and gorges
• Biodiversity-rich national parks and protected areas

Bhutan Map

Area and Population

The Kingdom of Bhutan covers an area of approximately 38,394 square kilometers, making it one of the smaller countries in Asia. As of 2023, the population is estimated to be around 800,000 people.

Demographics and Ethnic Composition

Bhutan’s population is composed of several ethnic groups, including:

• Ngalops: predominantly in western and central regions
• Sharchops: mainly in eastern Bhutan
• Lhotshampa: ethnic Nepalese residing in the southern regions
• Smaller indigenous groups in remote areas

Name and History

Origin of the Name “Bhutan”

Bhutan is known as “Druk Yul” in the local Dzongkha language, which means “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” The name “Bhutan” is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word “Bhotant,” meaning “the end of Tibet,” or “Bhu-Uttan,” meaning “highlands.”

History

The history of Bhutan is rich and deeply rooted in Buddhism and monarchic traditions. Key historical events include:

• Introduction of Buddhism in the 7th century
• Unification of Bhutan by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the 17th century
• Establishment of the hereditary monarchy in 1907
• Transition to a constitutional monarchy and first democratic elections in 2008

Government and Politics

Capital

Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan. It serves as the political and economic center of the country and is home to the King’s palace, government offices, and numerous monasteries and cultural sites.

Government and Politics

Bhutan operates as a constitutional monarchy. The King, known as the Druk Gyalpo, is the head of state, while executive power is vested in the Prime Minister, who is the head of government. The legislative branch consists of a bicameral Parliament, which includes the National Council (upper house) and the National Assembly (lower house). The country held its first democratic elections in 2008.

Values and Culture

Bhutanese values emphasize Gross National Happiness, a development philosophy that prioritizes spiritual, social, and environmental well-being over material growth. The country places great importance on preserving its cultural heritage, environmental conservation, and community cohesion.

Religion

Bhutan’s official religion is Vajrayana Buddhism, practiced by about 75% of the population. Hinduism is also significant, practiced mainly by the Lhotshampa community in the south. Religious harmony is a key aspect of Bhutanese society.

Holidays

Major public holidays in Bhutan include:

• National Day on December 17
• Losar, the Bhutanese New Year, usually in February or March
• Thimphu Tshechu, a religious festival held annually in the capital
• Birth anniversaries of the Kings
• Blessed Rainy Day, marking the end of the monsoon season

Demographics and Society

Language

The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, which is used in government and education. Other languages and dialects are also spoken, reflecting the country’s diverse ethnic groups, including Sharchhopka, Nepali, and various indigenous languages.

Society and Sports

Bhutanese society is closely tied to its traditions and community life. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and is widely practiced throughout the country. Other popular sports include darts (khuru), soccer, and basketball. Bhutan made its debut in international football competitions in recent years.

Safety

Bhutan is generally considered a safe country for both residents and visitors, with low crime rates. The Bhutanese government places emphasis on community harmony and the well-being of its citizens.

Economy and Currency

Economy

Bhutan’s economy is largely based on agriculture, forestry, tourism, and the sale of hydroelectric power to neighboring India. Key sectors include:

• Hydroelectric power generation
• Agriculture and forestry
• Tourism, emphasizing sustainable and culturally sensitive practices
• Handicrafts and small-scale industries

The Bhutanese government focuses on sustainable development and measures progress through Gross National Happiness rather than Gross Domestic Product.

Currency

The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN), which is pegged to the Indian Rupee (INR). The Indian Rupee is also accepted as legal tender within Bhutan.

Culture and Arts

Culture and Arts

Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in its Buddhist heritage, reflected in its art, architecture, and traditions. Notable aspects include:

• Traditional arts and crafts (Zorig Chusum), encompassing 13 traditional arts such as painting, carpentry, and sculpture
• Unique architecture, including dzongs (fortress-monasteries) and traditional houses
• Masked dance festivals (Tshechus) held annually in various regions
• Traditional music and folk dances

Cuisine

Bhutanese cuisine is characterized by its spiciness and the prominent use of chili peppers and dairy products. Key elements include:

• Ema Datshi: The national dish, made with chili peppers and cheese
• Red rice: A staple grain grown locally
• Momos: Dumplings filled with meat or vegetables
• Butter tea (Suja): A traditional beverage made from tea leaves, yak butter, and salt

National Anthem

Bhutan’s national anthem, “Druk tsendhen,” translates to “The Thunder Dragon Kingdom.” It was adopted in 1953 and reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and reverence for the monarchy.

Infrastructure and Transportation

Transportation

Bhutan’s transportation infrastructure is influenced by its mountainous terrain. Key points include:

• Developing road networks connecting major towns and regions
• The primary international gateway is Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most challenging airports for pilots due to surrounding peaks
• No railways exist within the country
• Domestic air travel is limited, with few domestic airports

Time Zones

Bhutan operates on Bhutan Time (BTT), which is 6 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+6).

Web and Phone Code

Bhutan’s internet country code is “.bt,” and its international dialing code is +975.

Bhutan: Things to See and Do

Bhutan is a land of stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique traditions, offering visitors a chance to experience its serene beauty and way of life. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Bhutan:

Explore Ancient Monasteries and Dzongs

• Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang): An iconic monastery perched on a cliffside, one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks.
• Punakha Dzong: Known as the “Palace of Great Happiness,” it is one of the most beautiful dzongs in Bhutan.
• Trongsa Dzong: A historical fortress with significant importance in Bhutan’s monarchy.

Attend Colorful Festivals (Tshechus)

• Thimphu Tshechu: One of the largest festivals, featuring masked dances and cultural performances.
• Paro Tshechu: An annual event attracting locals and tourists to witness traditional dances and rituals.

Trekking and Hiking

• Snowman Trek: One of the most challenging treks in the world, traversing high-altitude passes.
• Druk Path Trek: A popular route offering stunning views of mountains and valleys.
• Jomolhari Trek: Takes you to the base of Mount Jomolhari, offering breathtaking scenery.

Experience Local Culture and Traditions

• Visit Traditional Villages: Engage with local communities and learn about the Bhutanese way of life.
• Art and Craft Schools: Explore institutions teaching traditional arts, such as painting and weaving.

Enjoy Nature and Wildlife

• Royal Manas National Park: Bhutan’s oldest national park, home to diverse flora and fauna.
• Phobjikha Valley: A glacial valley known for black-necked cranes that migrate here in winter.

Relax in Hot Springs

• Gasa Hot Springs: Famous for their healing properties, a popular destination for locals and visitors.

Savor Bhutanese Cuisine

• Try Ema Datshi: Experience the national dish made of chilies and cheese.
• Sample Ara: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from rice or grains.

Participate in Archery Competitions

• Watch or Join Archery Matches: Experience Bhutan’s national sport and its festive atmosphere.