The Kingdom of Bhutan is a state in South Asia located between India and China. The capital is Thimphu. The self-name is Druk Yul, the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Bhutan is also a historical name of a neighboring territory in India in the state of West Bengal with the center in Kalimpong. This territory was taken from Bhutan by the British in the 19th century after conflicts. According to one version, the name “Bhutan” comes from Bhu-Uttan, which in Sanskrit means “highlands” or “mountain country.” According to another version, the name comes from Bhot-Ant, meaning “edge (end) of Tibet” or “south of Tibet.” It is a country of Buddhism, purity, and enlightenment, in search of which monks came many centuries ago to the slopes of the Southern Himalayas, settled there, and live there to this day.
Bhutanese architecture in dzongs, buildings, and houses is very impressive. Bhutan is not an ordinary place and is full of surprises; visiting the country is a magnificent adventure.