Bhutan is an old country with rich history. She also has some of the world’s finest flora and fauna. This article shares a little about Bhutan’s history and geography.
History of Bhutan
The start of humanity in Bhutan started a little after Ice Age. But historical records only began after the arrival of Buddhism in the 7th century, when the famous Guru Rinpoche visited Bhutan and established monasteries.
In 1865, Britain and Bhutan signed a treaty. In exchange for annual funding, they will give some border land to the British. Under British influence, a monarchy was set up. Bhutan also allowed Britain to direct its foreign affairs. After India found her independence, India now directs Bhutan’s foreign affairs.
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The current king (5th King) is Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The official coronation took place in November 2008. In addition, the Fifth King is Boston and Oxford educated and is held in high esteem throughout the country.
Climate
Bhutan is small, but the weather varies drastically due to the Himalayan region and elevation.
In the North, it is perennially covered with snow. In the western, central and eastern Bhutan (Ha, Paro, Thimphu, Wandue, Trongsa, Bumthang, Trashi Yangtse, Lhuntse) you will experience European-like weather. Winter happens from November to March. However, Punakha is an exception as it is in a lower valley and summer is hot and winter is pleasant.
Southern Bhutan bordering with India is hot and humid with a sub-tropical climate. Summer months tend to be wetter with isolated showers predominately in the evenings only. Winter is by far the driest period while spring and autumn tend to be pleasant.
Temperatures in the far south range from 15°C in winter (December to February) to 30°C in summer (June to August). In Thimphu the range is from -2.5°C in January to 25°C in August and with a rainfall of 100mm.
In the high mountain regions the average temperature is 0°C in winter and may reach 10°C in summer, with an average of 350mm of rain. Precipitation varies significantly with the elevation. The average rainfall varies from region to region.
Cities in Bhutan
While Bhutanese villages are generally very picturesque, the towns are characterized by their concrete, utilitarian structures with the notable exceptions being Trashiyangtse and Trashigang.
- Thimphu – The capital city
- Jakar (Bumthang) – An administrative town in the north and the birthplace of Buddhism in Bhutan.
- Mongar – One of the largest towns in east Bhutan.
- Paro – The location of the international airport and Taktsang Monastery.
- Punakha – A former winter capital of Bhutan which still hosts the monastic body in winter.
- Phuentsholing – A town on the Indian border. The point of entry for travelers arriving by bus from West Bengal.
- Samdrup Jongkhar – An administrative town in the southeast, which is the point of entry for travelers arriving from [Assam].
- Trashigang – A picturesque administrative town in the east.
- Trongsa – A small administrative town famous for its dzong and the Tower of Trongsa
Trevellers is my way to change the world. Through my stories, tips and lessons learnt, I truly hope to inspire you to get out of your comfort zone, see the world and see who you truly are. Travel is more than just taking a selfie. Travel is an adventure, where you can truly become who you are, give you the time to reflect and grow to become the person you’ve always wanted to be.
Off the tourist tracks in Western Java
