Bhutan is the last stronghold of Mahayana Buddhism. It is still as much about magic, and mystery, simplicity and tranquility, and about a way of life that has escaped the clutches of time.
History
Bhutan, as part of the traditional loosely linked Himalayan Diaspora, has
historically witnessed a minimal degree of external interaction. The country's
history is characterized by its independence and simplicity, essentially tracing
the gradual diffusion of Buddhism, political and religious unification, political
consolidation under a monarchy, and entry into the modern outside world.
8th Century - visit of Guru Rimpoche (the second Buddha)
and spread of Mahayana Buddhism. Bhutan a haven for great Buddhist Masters.
17th Century - political and religious unification under Shabdrung
Ngawang Namgyal
1907 - Ugyen Wangchuck elected as First King of Bhutan
1961 - Bhutan emerges from self-imposed isolation and follows a policy
of planned development, prudently utilizing her resources and achieving a
high level of development.
Country Profile
Country name: Druk Yul (Thunder Dragon) or Bhutan.
Location: South Asia, eastern Himalayas, between India and
China.
Area: 47,000 sq/km, similar to Switzerland.
Elevation extremes: 100-7750m
Climate: varies with altitude - sub-tropical, temperate and alpine,
significant localized variation in rainfall concentrated in monsoon season
(mid-June to September)
Natural resources: hydropower, timber, assorted mineral and
ecological
Territory: Made up of a collection of high hills and deep valleys, rising from the Indian plains to the Tibetan plateau. Extremely high proportion of land area is unsuitable for agriculture or other productive pursuits. Landscape, though inhospitable for humans, harbors immense ecological wealth and diversity and possesses significant hydropower potential.
Inward sloping wall-edge of a temple.
