Bhutan’s Culture and Traditions

Bhutan remained sovereign and self-sufficient but unknown to the world outside for most of its existence until the mid 20th century as a tiny landlocked Himalayan Kingdom. The country’s heritage of rich culture and tradition has remained almost completely untainted.
Both true history and myths are fascinating and an inherent part of Bhutanese culture. Dzong are reminders of the Bhutanese defense against Tibetan invaders which are the highest administrative house in every Dzongkhag (Districts) these days. The Bhutanese festivals or Tshechus (‘Tshechu’ meaning ‘Tenth Day’) are one of the prime examples of living culture of Bhutan that many have come to admire and to treasure. The Tshechu is a festival in honour of Guru Rimpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan. Tshechus attract hundreds of Bhutanese people in a spirit of festivity, celebration and deep faith in almost every district.
Healthcare in Bhutan is free for both Bhutanese and visitors. The rich tradition of indigenous medicine, based primarily on herbal treatment, is kept alive with the Institute for Traditional Medicine Services in Thimphu and 19 indigenous dispensaries scattered across Bhutan.
Bhutan has museums which are worthwhile to pay a visit. The National Museum, hosted in the Ta Dzong(Watch Tower) of Paro Dzong, gives a comprehensive picture about history, culture, people and animals in Bhutan. The National Heritage and Folklore Museum, the Museum of Traditional Medicine, the National Library, the Institute of Traditional Arts in Thimphu give a deeper insight into special parts of Bhutanese life. A great museum on Bhutanese history, life and culture can be found in the Tang valley of Bumthang district, in Tang Ugyen Choling.
Bhutanese traditional dress is called the Gho (men’s robes) and Kira (women’s dress). Bhutan’s national sport archery, is not just a sport. It is a festivity where archers, dancers, entertainers, astrologers, in fact, the entire communities gather to eat, drink and have fun.