Political Overview
Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, where the King (Druk Gyalpo) serves as head of state alongside an elected Prime Minister who leads the government. Since transitioning from absolute to constitutional monarchy in 2008, Bhutan has held regular parliamentary elections, fostering a cautious balance between tradition and democratic participation. The two main political parties, the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), vie for influence within a framework designed to preserve national unity, cultural values, and the unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness that guides policy and progress.

Cultural Heritage and Identity
The soul of Bhutan lies in its vibrant tapestry of Buddhist traditions, art, and community life. Dzongkha, the national language, and the intricate art of thangka painting tell stories of ancient deities, while the annual tsechu festivals burst into color with masked dances that reenact Buddhist legends. Villages cluster around fortress-monasteries (dzongs) that stand sentinel over misty valleys, and local artisans keep alive crafts such as weaving the radiant kira and gho garments. This deep reverence for harmony between people, spirituality, and nature shapes a collective identity that treasures compassion, mindfulness, and respect for the land.

Geographical Landscape, Area and Climate
Covering roughly 38,394 square kilometers, Bhutan’s terrain sweeps from subtropical plains in the south to alpine heights exceeding 7,000 meters in the north. Towering peaks draped in snow feed pristine rivers that carve deep gorges and lush valleys below. The climate varies dramatically: warm and humid in the foothills, temperate in the central valleys, and frigid in the high mountains. Monsoon rains between June and September nourish rice paddies and forests, while crisp winters blanketing the high passes beckon trekkers to Himalayan passes. This dramatic topography shapes livelihoods, from rice cultivation in terraced fields to yak herding amid rugged slopes.