Bhutan Intro

Bhutan is an extraordinary place hardly touched by the hands of time. Nestling in the heart of the great Himalaya, it remained in self-imposed isolation for centuries, aloof from the rest of the world. Since its doors were cautiously opened in 1974, visitors have been mesmerised: the environment is pristine, the scenery and architecture are awesome, the people are hospitable and charming, and the culture unique in its purity.

Despite the huge potential of its natural resources, Bhutan emerged as one of Asia's poorest countries, shunning the 'profit at all costs' mentality of the rest of the world. With one foot in the past and one in the future, it strolls confidently towards modernisation, on its own terms, fiercely protecting its ancient culture, its natural resources and its deeply Buddhist way of life.

Known to the natives as Druk Yul (Land of the Thunder Dragon), Bhutan is regarded as the last paradise on earth. Its isolation, spectacular mountains, varied flora and fauna, ancient Buddhist monasteries, vibrant culture and mystic aura have made it so.

Though small in size, the Kingdom's topography is one of dramatic contrasts. From the near-tropical southern border with India at an altitude of 300 m, the land rises to culminate in the over 7000-m peaks of the Himalaya in the north which form a natural frontier with the Tibetan region of Bhutanís northern neighbor, China.

Full country name: Kingdom of Bhutan
Area: 46,620 sq km (18,182 sq mi)
Population: 2 million
Capital city: Thimphu (pop 30,000)
People: 50% Bhote, 35% ethnic Nepali, 15% indigenous or migrant tribes
Language: Dzongkha
Religion:75% Buddhist, 25% Hindu
Government: Monarchy
King: Jigme Singye Wangchuck
Prime Minister: Lyonpo Khandu Wangchuk

GDP: US$1.9 billion
GDP per head: US$1,000
Annual growth: 6.5%
Inflation: 7.4%
Major industries: Cement, wood products, processed fruits, alcoholic beverages, calcium carbide, rice, corn, root crops, citrus, dairy products, eggs
Major trading partners: India, Bangladesh, Japan, U.K., Germany, U.S.

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