Bhutan

About

Bhutan, officially the Kingdom of Bhutan, is a landlocked country in South Asia, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas between China and India. It is renowned for its pristine landscapes and rich cultural heritage. With a population of over 727,145, Bhutan is a democratic constitutional monarchy, where the King serves as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The country is deeply rooted in Vajrayana Buddhism, with the Je Khenpo leading the state religion. Bhutan's geography is characterized by steep mountains and deep valleys, with the highest peak being Gangkhar Puensum, the highest unclimbed mountain globally. Bhutan is celebrated for its sustainable tourism model, focusing on "high-value, low-impact" tourism to preserve its natural beauty and cultural traditions. The country prioritizes Gross National Happiness (GNH) over GDP, ensuring economic development aligns with environmental conservation and cultural preservation. Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country, with over 70% of its land covered in forests. Its tourism policies include a daily tariff to support conservation and community welfare. This approach not only promotes sustainable travel but also contributes to global climate change mitigation efforts. Bhutan's unique blend of tradition and innovation makes it a leader in sustainable development and eco-tourism.