Bhutan Travel Guide

Bhutan

Country: Bhutan

Population: 2,327,849

Capital: Thimphu

Time Zone: UTC+6

Currency Name: Ngultrum (BTN); Indian rupee (INR)

Government Type: Absolute Monarchy (special treaty relationship with India; note - transition to a constitutional monarchy is expected in 2008)

Languages: Dzongkha (official), Bhotes speak various Tibetan dialects, Nepalese speak various Nepalese dialects

Ethnic Breakdown: Bhote 50%, ethnic Nepalese 35% (includes Lhotsampas - one of several Nepalese ethnic groups), indigenous or migrant tribes 15%

Religion: Lamaistic Buddhist 75%, Indian- and Nepalese-influenced Hinduism 25%

Major Cities: Thimpu

Phone Country Code: 975

Health Concerns:

Official Tourism Website: http://www.tourism.gov.bt/

High Travel Season: Late September through February

Voltage: 230 V - 50 Hz

Electrical Plug Type: d, f, g

Major Holidays: May 2 (King's Birthday), June 2 (Coronation Day), December 17 (National Day), December 21 (Winter Solstice)

Misc Fact / Good to Know: Archery is the national sport of Bhutan.