The Trongsa Dzong.

Chendebji. Photograph © by Marc Wensveen

The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked South Asian nation situated between India and China. The entire country is mountainous except for a small strip of subtropical plains in the extreme south, which is intersected by valleys known as the Duars. The elevation gain from the subtropical plains to the glacier-covered Himalayan heights exceeds 7,000 m (23,000 feet).

The country's traditional economy is based on forestry, animal husbandry and subsistence agriculture, however these account for less than 50% of earnings now that Bhutan has become an exporter of hydroelectricity.

Cash crops, tourism, and development aid (the latter mostly from India) are also significant. An extensive census conducted in April 2006 resulted in a population figure of 672,425. Thimphu is the capital and largest city.

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan lies in a valley on a hillside along the banks of the river of the same name. The city is the only national capital in the world with no traffic lights. A centre of Bhutanese culture, the Trashi Chhoe Dzong or the fortress of Glorious Religion, and the Memorial Chorten are among sites worthy of a visit.

Bhutanese culture is among the oldest, most carefully guarded and well preserved in the world. The people of Bhutan are aware that except for their centuries old culture and revered values, there is little that is exclusive to their small under developed country. In a bid to retain their ancient customs, the Bhutanese government has made it mandatory that all Bhutanese wear their national dress in public.