Culture

Bhutanese language and literature, the arts and crafts, ceremonies and events, and basic social and cultural values draw their essence from religious teachings. The tradition of fine art is alive today, manifested, for example, in products like the exquisite Thangkas. The exquisite traditional painting is also visible on monasteries and houses, skillfully enhancing the architecture.

Architecture is also a significant feature of the Bhutanese identity. The combination of engineering skill and aesthetic beauty is unparallel in all structures, from the massive monastic fortress to houses and bridges. Traditional shapes, colors and patterns on the walls, doors, windows, place Bhutanese architecture in a class of its own.

The Buddhist faith has played and continuous to play a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its people. It permeates all strands of secular life. Annual festivals (Tshechus and Dromchoes) are spiritual occasions held all over the country. They bring together the population of the district and are mostly dedicated Guru Rimpochey.

Throughout Bhutan, stupas and Chortens line the roadsides commemorating a place where Guru Rimpochey or Shabdrung may have stopped by to meditate. Prayer flags are even more common. Fluttering on long poles, they maintain constant communication with the heavens.

To ensure the continuity of Buddhism in the kingdom in the olden days, one son from each family normally attended the monastic school. While the Dzongs are central of administrative and government activities, they are also predominantly the homes and temples of monastic community.