Introduction to Bhutan

Quick Overview

Bhutan is a small Himalayan monarchy, "sandwiched" between China to the north and India to the south.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: in the Himalayas, between India and Tibet.

• Latitude/longitude: 27°29' N, 89°38' E.

• Local time: Heure : 12819

• Capital: Thimphu

• Nature of the state: constitutional monarchy.

• Official language: dzongkha (a Tibetan dialect).

• Currency: ngultrum.

• Population: 766,397 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 38,394 km².

• Density: 20 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Gangkhar Puensum (7,570 m).

• Lowest point: Drangeme Chhu (97 m).

• Coastline: 0 km, no maritime access.

• Driving: on the left.

Tourism

Due to its restrictive tourism policy (even though there has been some "liberalisation" in recent years), including a mandatory minimum daily spend of $200–$250, this small Himalayan kingdom remains relatively little-visited despite its stunning landscapes and well-preserved culture and traditions.

Just over 250,000 people now visit the country each year (274,000 in 2018), primarily from China, the USA, and Japan. Roughly 1,500 French travellers also make the trip annually, making France the 10th largest source country.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travellers, if only because of the mandatory guided tours.

• By air: France–Paro.

• Entry requirements: passport + visa + mandatory daily spend of $200–$250 (covering various services).

• Currency to bring: euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily backpacker budget: $200–$250/day, matching the minimum mandatory spend (varies by season) set by the authorities.

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Highlights (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★★; Adventure ★★; Culture ★★/★★★; Relaxation/holidays ⊘

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 134/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $9,000 (2017)

• Average monthly income:

• Inflation: +5.8% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 3.2% (2017)

• Population below the poverty line: 13.3% (2012)

• Life expectancy: 71.1 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: 0 (2017)

• Population growth: +1.05% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 64.9% (2015)

• Urban population: 40.9% (2018)

• Press freedom: 94/180 (2018 ranking)

• Political regime: hybrid regime (94/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook