Bhutan Canada Foundation Guide for Teachers

Contents

The Kingdom of Bhutan 2

History and Economy 4

Religion and Spirituality 10

Customs and Traditions 16

Language 24

Education in Bhutan 26

Gross National Happiness 30

Living in Bhutan 32

Healthcare and Medical 42

Travel 43

What to Bring 44

Do’s and Don’t 46

Recommended Reads and Watches 47

Glossary 48

Bibliography 54

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The Kingdom of Bhutan

Population: 797, 765 (2016) Bordering Countries: China (Tibet) / India ​ ​ Capital: Thimphu Highest Point: Gangkar Phinsum ​ ​ Area: 38, 394 sq kilometers ​ Geography

Much of Bhutan's terrain is extremely rugged. It is often divided into three regions that are distinguished by their altitude. The first is the Himalayan region in the north that consists of many mountain peaks reaching over 24,000 ft (7,351 m). The second region is central uplands on the slopes and valleys of the Himalayas. This region is divided by several large rivers. The third is the Duars Plain that opens out toward India from the Himalayan foothills.

Demographics

Bhutanese people primarily consist of the Ngalops and Sharchops, called the Western Bhutanese and Eastern Bhutanese respectively. The Ngalops primarily consist of Bhutanese living in the western part of the country. Their culture is closely related to that of Tibet. Much the same could be said of the Sharchops, the dominant group, who originate from the eastern part of Bhutan (but who traditionally follow the Nyingmapa rather than the official Drukpa Kagyu form of Mahayana Buddhism).

Districts

Bhutan comprises twenty districts (dzongkhag, both singular and plural): ​ ​

1. Bumthang 11. Samdrup Jongkhar 2. Chukha (old spelling Chhukha) 12. Samtse 3. Dagana 13. Sarpang 4. Gasa 14. Thimphu 5. Haa 15. Trashigang 6. Lhuntse (old spelling Lhuntshi) 16. Trashiyangste 7. Mongar 17. Trongsa 8. Paro 18. Tsirang 9. Pemagatshel 19. Wangdue Phodrang 10. Punakha 20. Zhemgang

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Climate

Bhutan's climate varies with these regions. The southern plains, for instance, feature a tropical climate while the uplands have cool winters and hot summers, and the northern mountains have extremely cold winters and cool summers. The average day temperature ranges from a minimum of 4°C to a maximum of 18°C (55°F to 60°F), however nights will be a minimum of -2°C.

Maps

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History and Economy

History

Bhutan’s recorded history dates as far back as the 6th century A.D., while the real historical period started with the introduction of Buddhism from 7th century A.D. Since then, Buddhism has largely shaped the history of Bhutan and the way of life of its people.

Bhutan’s geographical situation kept the world at bay and, together with the policy of isolation, this small kingdom was never colonized, a matter of great pride to the Bhutanese. Its ancient history, which is a mixture of the oral tradition and classical literature, tells of a largely self-sufficient population that had limited contact with the outside world until the turn of the century.

The earliest notable relics visible of the history of Bhutan, today, are the two monasteries, the Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang which were built in the 7th Century A.D. Little is known about Bhutan during that period.

It was not until the visit of Guru Rimpochey (also known as Padma Sambhava) in 747 A.D., that Buddhism took firm root in the country. It is believed that Guru Rimpochey flew into Bhutan on the back of a tiger and landed in Taktsang, Paro, where the Taktsang monastery, one of the most revered sacred sites and the most distinguished religious and historical icon of Bhutan, stands today.

Another important chapter in the history of Bhutan evolved in the first half of the 13th century when the spiritual master, Phajo Drugom Zhingpo arrived. He was the precursor of the Drukpa Kagyu tradition of Mahayana Buddhism, which ultimately gained pre-eminence in the country.

Over the years many saints and religious figures helped shape Bhutan's history and develop its religion, of which the Tertons (treasure discoverers), who were pre-destined to unearth the ters (relics) hidden by Guru Rimpoche and other saints, played an important role. Among the Tertons, Pema Lingpa, born in the Tang valley of Bumthang, occupies the most important place in the Bhutanese history. His discovery of ters from a lake called Mebartsho (The Burning Lake) in

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Bumthang is a famous event. He not only discovered formative religious texts and artifacts but also composed dances and created arts which have become important components of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.

The arrival of Shabdrung Rimpochey (Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal) began the most dynamic era in the history of Bhutan. Shabdrung Rimpochey has become known as the unifier of Bhutan as a nation state. Not only did he unite the warring fiefdoms that made up Bhutan, but also worked to create a distinctly Bhutanese culture, which was separate from Tibetan culture. Shabdrung Rimpochey established the dual system of government--the temporal and theocratic--with Je Khenpo (chief abbot) as the religious head and the temporal leader known as the Desi.

The Shabdrung's dual system of government, ruled by 54 Desis and 60 Je Khenpos, steered Bhutan from 1651 until the birth of the Wangchuck dynasty and establishment of hereditary Monarchy in 1907.

Monarchy

By the second half of the 19th century the greatest authority in the land lay in the hands of quasi-independent, nonhereditary baronies. The same period saw the powerful British seeking to incorporate Tibet within their sphere of influence. This was a development that posed a threat to Bhutan but was overcome by the political acumen of Penlop Ugyen Wangchuck, a dynamic leader who successfully played the role of mediator between British India and Tibet. The inspired maneuver helped in furthering his authority within Bhutan against a background that was characterized by widespread desire for political stability and internal peace, and, in 1907, an assembly of the clergy, the government, and the people unanimously elected the first hereditary monarch of Bhutan, with the title of Druk Gyalpo (Precious King of the Thunder dragon)

Ugyen Wangchuck displayed extraordinary qualities as a leader and statesmen. He was a deeply devout and religious man and imbued with a genuine desire to improve the condition of his people. He possessed remarkable administrative and diplomatic skills. With his outstanding qualities of leadership and statesmanship, he was undoubtedly Bhutan’s man of destiny. By uniting the country and establishing a central authority, he brought peace and stability to the country and laid the foundation for the emergence of modern Bhutan. He was succeeded by Jigme Wangchuck, during whose reign (1926-52) the nation continued to enjoy peace and stability.

The reign of the 3rd monarch King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1952-72) was marked by the progressive opening of the country to the outside world. In 1962 Bhutan joined the Colombo Plan

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and in 1971 Bhutan became a member of the United Nations. Restructuring of the country’s social, economic and political institutions was also carried out under his leadership.

The fourth king, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, always stressed the need for great participation of the people in the nation building process, and as a result, decentralized the administration and established District Development Committees in all eighteen districts of the kingdom. As Bhutan is a small country with a small population, the fourth king gave topmost priority to building a small, compact and efficient government with a system of administration that is not dependent on individuals or personalities. Due importance was also given to the promotion of the high values of the country’s rich social and cultural heritage.

At the same time, under the leadership of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, Bhutan rapidly established good bilateral relations with many countries both within and outside its region. Over the years, Bhutan has achieved significant success in enhancing its image in the community of nations through the balanced and pragmatic positions it has consistently adopted as an active member of numerous multilateral organizations.

The fourth king of Bhutan’s reign witnessed the dawn of a new era in Bhutan, an era marked by great political stability, all-round economic progress and development that sought to harmoniously blend the best of the old and new.

On 17 December 2005, (at the age of 50), His Majesty announced his intention to abdicate in 2008, leaving the throne to his son. During the last year of his reign, he sent every household in the land a new draft constitution that allowed for his impeachment. In a royal edict issued on 14 December 2006, the king announced that he would begin handing over power to his eldest son Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck immediately. He had ordered a parliamentary election to be held in 2008.

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His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuk the Fifth King of Bhutan

After completing his higher secondary studies from Yangchenphu Higher secondary school, Bhutan, His Majesty studied abroad at Phillips Academy (Andover, Massachusetts), Cushing Academy and Wheaton College in Massachusetts, United States, before graduating from Magdalen College, University of Oxford, United Kingdom, where he completed the Foreign Service Program and a Master of Philosophy in Politics. His Majesty has been conferred a number of honorary degrees, including one by the University of New Brunswick, Canada.

He has travelled abroad officially representing Bhutan on several occasions and has an active role in numerous cultural, educational and economic organizations.

His Majesty was officially crowned on November 6, 2008, in the month of the male earth rat, at Tashichhoe dzong in Thimphu. The coronation ceremony comprised an ancient and colourful ritual, attended by many foreign dignitaries, including the President of India.

His Majesty began his reign overseeing the democratization of his country, by presiding over the last sessions of the present parliament where electoral laws, land reform and other important issues were deliberated. He stated that the responsibility of this generation of Bhutanese was to ensure the success of democracy. He also traveled extensively around the country to encourage participation in the upcoming democratic exercises, speaking mainly to the youth of Bhutan on the need for Bhutanese to strive for greater standards, whether in education, business or the civil service and the need for the people of a small country to work harder than those of others.

Many government initiatives were undertaken by His Majesty with a view to strengthen the system in preparation for the democratic changes in 2008. After an extensive period waiting for the completion of parliamentary elections, in November 2008 a coronation public ceremony was performed.

His Majesty married Jetsun Pema in October 2011, in what was the largest televised media event in Bhutan's history.

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Democratization and Government

Bhutan has transformed its form of government from an absolute monarchy to a multi-party democracy. The process, initiated by the monarchy itself, included a mock election on April 21, 2007 to allow the population to become accustomed to the election process.

The first actual election in Bhutan was held th on March 24 ,​ 2008. Two parties were ​ registered by the Election Commission of Bhutan to contest the election: Druk Phuensum Tshogpa, and the People's Democratic Party (PDP).

The new democratic system comprises an upper and lower house, the latter based on political party affiliations. Elections for the upper house (National Council) were held on December 31, 2007, while elections for the lower house, the 47-seat National Assembly, were held on March 24, 2008. The People's Democratic Party (PDP) headed by Sangay Ngedup, and the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) headed by Jigmi Thinley, competed in the National Assembly election. The Druk Phuensum Tshogpa won the elections taking 45 out of 47 seats in the parliament. Turnout reached nearly 80% by the time the polls closed

Judicial power is vested in the courts of Bhutan. The Chief Justice is the administrative head of the Judiciary.

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Industry and Economy

Craft manufacture is the predominant industrial occupation, and homespun textiles - woven and embroidered cottons, wools, and silks - are the most important products. Other Bhutanese handicrafts include handmade paper; swords; wooden bowls; leather objects; copper, iron, brass, bronze, and silver work; wood carvings; and split-cane basketry.

The economy in the 21st century has become increasingly dominated by the hydroelectric sector, and the building of new power projects has led to double-digit growth in the transport and construction sectors, including a number of local cement operations. The country's first cement plant Penden Cement Authority Limited (PCAL), was completed in the border town of Gomtu in 1982 by India, to which the bulk of its output is exported. Bhutan's first mega power plant, the 336-MW Chukha hydroelectricity project (CHEP), came on line in early 1987. 70% of the power generated by the CHEP is exported to India, and by 1996 export receipts were sufficient to produce a trade surplus with India. Nevertheless, it is estimated that only about 3% of Bhutan's hydroelectric potential has yet been exploited, and even less of its industrializing potential. The decade following the opening of the Chukha facility, 1988–1998, saw more government resistance to industrialization of Bhutan than support, and progress has been slow.

In 1988, in conjunction with the country's sixth economic plan (1987–1992), the Bhutan Development Finance Corporation was established to promote small- and medium-scale businesses.

There are a large number of small, privately owned sawmills throughout Bhutan, since most of its domestic energy actually comes from firewood, not electricity. A sawmill with a furniture-making unit has been established in Thimphu. Industrial estates have been set up at Phuntsholing and Geylegphug, and the Ninth Five Year Plan (2002 to 2006) calls for five to be located around the country

Besides cement, there is a narrow range of other manufactures exported - ferro-alloys, calcium carbide, processed foods and particleboard - which tend to rely on energy-and capital-intensive methods and expatriate labor.

It is likely that with the emphasis in the Ninth Five Year Plan on commercial and private sector development as means of achieving economic self-sufficiency and generating employment, this share will continue to grow.

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Religion and Spirituality

Buddhism

Buddhism is inscribed into the landscape of Bhutan - prayer flags, white and red chortens and images of Buddhist saints carved into the rock, dot the countryside. To understand Bhutan and its peoples, it is essential to have a basic understanding of Buddhism. Buddhist values are central to Bhutanese daily life. The experience of entering a dzong or monastery, or even a private household shrine room will be enriched by understanding the core Buddhist concepts, and how these are encapsulated in some of the common religious images and practices encountered in Bhutan. The Buddhism of Bhutan has a complex and rich visual tradition that can seem overwhelming. The bright and intricate mandalas decorating temple porches, wrathful protective deities and the Wheel of Life all serve the same purpose: to encapsulate basic Buddhist teachings.

Buddhism is perhaps the most accommodating of the world’s religions. As Buddhism has spread, it has adapted to local conditions, creating new schools of thought. However, its basic tenets have remained the same and all schools of Buddhism are united by their faith in the value of the original teachings of Sakyamuni (Sakya Thukpa), the Historical Buddha.

Visiting a Dzong or Temple

Himalayan Buddhism has a generally relaxed approach to religious sites, but you should observe a few important rules if you are invited to enter a lhakhang or goemba. It is customary to remove one’s shoes and hat upon entering the important rooms of a temple. You will most likely be escorted by a caretaker monk, and you can follow his example in removing your shoes at the appropriate doorway. Leave cameras, umbrellas and hats outside. It is acceptable to take photos in the courtyard but not inside the temple. Always move in a clockwise direction and do not speak loudly in respect for the sanctity of the place. If there is a ceremony being performed inside, always check before entering that it is okay.

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Followers of Himalayan Buddhism will prostrate themselves three times before the primary altar and occasionally before secondary shrines to important saints. You may approach the central altar, and in Bhutanese goembas you will often find a cup containing three dice. Bhutanese roll these dice and the monk interprets the auspiciousness of the result. It is customary to leave a small offering of money, for example Nu 10 on the altar. To make this offering fold the money lengthwise, press it to your forehead and then place it on the altar. When you make this offering, the monk accompanying you will pour a small amount of holy water, from a sacred vessel called a bumpa, into your hand. You should drink this or make the gesture of drinking this, and then ​ spread the rest on your head from front to back. While male visitors may be permitted (please ask before entering) to enter the goenkhang (shrine dedicated to protector deities), this is off limits to ​ ​ all women. Do not walk behind an altar set before the goenkhang. ​ If you are invited into the altar room of a house in which you are a guest, it is acceptable to ask your host if you should make a small offering. Proceed as in a temple. Always remember to walk around a chorten, prayer wheel or temple in a clockwise direction.

Other Religions

Not all Bhutanese are Buddhist. Many of the Lhotshampas, the descendents of Nepalese migrants, are Hindu - as are the majority of the casual laborers from Assam and Bengal. There are still traces of the earlier pre-Buddhist beliefs in the countryside and there are also a small number of Christian converts.

Vestiges of Bon, the pre-Buddhist beliefs of Tibet, can still be found in Bhutan. Moreover, Bhutan has a rich folk religion (luso). Bhutanese folk beliefs are primarily concerned with a range of ​ ​ spirits, like nep or local deities who act as the custodian of particular valleys such as Chungdu in ​ ​ Haa, or Radak in Wangdue Phodrang. Other spirits reside in rocks or groves of trees; there are tshomen, goddesses who inhabit the lakes, rivers and wells. Sadak are lords of the earth and ​ ​ ​ tsen are air spirits who can bring illness and death. ​ Bhutan is tolerant of all religions but does not permit proselytizing. The constitution upholds freedom of belief. It does, however, recognize the importance of Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage to its cultural identity.

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Karma

“Karma is the law of moral causation and a fundamental doctrine in Buddhism. Although this belief was prevalent in India before the advent of the Buddha, it was the Buddha who explained and formulated this doctrine in the complete form in which we have it today.

Inequality exists amongst mankind; some people are rich, some are poor; some people are beautiful and others are not; some people are physically challenged and others are physically blessed. According to Buddhism, this inequality is due not only to heredity, environment, "nature and nurture", but also to Karma. In other words, it is the result of our own past actions and our own present doings. We ourselves are responsible for our own happiness and misery. We create our own Heaven. We create our own Hell. We are the architects of our own fate.”

Superstition, Omens and Dreams

Superstition plays an important role in the lives of Bhutanese as some important decisions they make depend on the advice of astrologers or messages they interpret from dreams and omens. These superstitions, though widespread across the country, are part of a Bhutanese sub-culture and have no direct relation to Buddhism. Most superstitions predate Buddhism’s arrival to the th country in the 8 ​ century. ​ Prior to the arrival of Buddhism the people of Bhutan believed that all living and nonliving beings possessed souls and spirits which helped or harmed humans according to their actions. As a result, they worshipped the spirits and deities of objects in the hope that they would be blessed with success in their endeavors. They also prayed to these spirits and deities for protection against misfortune and believed that human error could annoy the spirits and result in punishment.

Some superstitions that are still observed in contemporary Bhutanese culture are: ​ ● When a person is about to go on a long journey they will seek advice from astrologers, who will then consult a lunar calendar to help find an auspicious time to embark upon the journey. ● People often summon help from priests and nuns to bless them before beginning a new economic activity.

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● The days 2, 8, 14, 20, 26 of every lunar calendar are considered inauspicious for travel. Each of these days is called a “Ta-shi Ga-cha” meaning it will result in the death of horse and destruction of its saddle. st nd ● It is also inauspicious to cut one’s hair on the 1 ​ or 2 ​ of every lunar month, and people ​ ​ th th are advised to avoid washing their head on the 29 ​ and 30 ​ of every lunar month as well. ​ ​ ● Cutting your hair inside your house is a bad omen, and it is thought that if you do your mother will die. ● Bees are a sign of wealth and building their nest in one’s house is a sign of prosperity. Conversely, people believe that wasps bring misfortune. ● Seeing or hearing owls hoot signifies death. ● Dogs howling at night are believed to signify death in the direction the dogs are facing. If they are facing one’s home they are quickly chased away. ● Cutting one’s fingernails and toenails at night is thought to invite demons into the house, as does whistling at night. ● At night do not shout a person's name as it is believed this will attract a ghost.

Dreams are thought to carry much significance. For example: ​ ● Dreaming of an arrow hitting a target or walking up the road are considered good omens and signify success, while dreams of a black dog, walking down the road, or a tooth falling out of one’s mouth are considered bad dreams. ● Dreams that are seen during the autumn season are considered null because people say that during autumn when leaves are falling off trees people are capable of dreaming anything, and therefore, will not give its true interpretation.

Death and Dying in Tibetan Buddhist Tradition

In Tibet the day of death is thought of as highly important. It is believed that as soon as the death of the body has taken place, the personality goes into a state of trance for four days. During this time the person does not know they are dead. This period is called the First Bardo and during it lamas (monks) saying special verses are thought to reach the dead person.

It is believed that towards the end of this time the dead person will see a brilliant light. If the radiance of the Clear Light does not terrify them, and they can welcome it, then the person will not be reborn. But most flee from the Light, which then fades. The person then becomes conscious that death has occurred. At this point the Second Bardo begins. The person sees all that they have ever done or thought passing in front of them. While they watch they feel they have a body, but when they realize this is not so, they long to possess one again.

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Then comes the Third Bardo, which is the state of seeking another birth. All previous thoughts and actions direct the person to choose new parents, who will give them their next body.

Folklore

The Yeti

The Yeti, often called Abominable Snowman in the west, and ​ ​ ​ referred to as the Migoli by the Bhutanese, is a bipedal ape like ​ ​ creature that is said to inhabit the Himalayan region of Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan.

Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary in the eastern part of Bhutan is an entire national park that is dedicated to the protection of the yeti’s habitat. The lush deciduous forests of Sakteng are believed to be the home of these creatures.

There is no scientific proof confirming the presence of this mythical creature that walks on two feet like humans and is tall, shaggy and very dangerous. Migoli is known for its phenomenal strength and magical powers, such as the ability to become invisible and to walk backwards to fool any trackers.

th Stories of the Yeti reached Western ears as early as the 19 ​ century with reports of sightings of ​ the beast and strange footprints in the snow. The frequency of reports increased in the 20th ​ century when Westerners began making determined attempts to scale the many mountains in the Himalayan region. In 1953 Sir Edmund Hilary reported seeing very large strange footprints in the snow on his way up Mount Everest. In 1970, British mountaineer Don Whillans claimed to have seen a creature when scaling Annapurna. According to Whillans, while scouting for a campsite, he heard some odd cries which his Sherpa guide attributed to a Yeti's call. That night, he saw a dark shape moving near his camp. The next day, he observed a few human-like footprints in the snow, and that evening, viewed with binoculars a bipedal, ape-like creature for 20 minutes not far from his camp.

The scientific community generally regards the Yeti as a legend given the lack of conclusive evidence that exists. Misidentification of Himalayan wildlife, such as the Tibetan Blue Bear, the Himalayan Brown Bear, or even a human hermit, has been proposed as an explanation for Yeti sightings.

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Guru Rimpochey

Padmasambhava (Guru Rimpochey) was a sage guru who is said to have transmitted Vajrayana Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century. In Bhutan he is associated with the famous Paro Taktsang or "Tiger's Nest" monastery built on a sheer cliff wall about 500m above the floor of Paro valley. It th was built around the Taktsang Senge cave where he is said to have meditated in the 8 ​ Century. ​ He flew there from Tibet on the back of Yeshe Tsogyal, whom he transformed into a flying tigress for the purpose of the trip. Later he travelled to Bumthang district to subdue a powerful deity offended by a local king. Padmasambhava's body imprint can be found in the wall of a cave at nearby Kurje Lhakhang temple.

The Druk

The "Thunder Dragon" of Bhutanese mythology is a Bhutanese national symbol. A druk appears on the Bhutanese Flag, holding jewels to represent wealth. In the Dzongkha language, Bhutan is called Druk Yul, or Land of Druk, and Bhutanese leaders are called Druk Gyalpo, Dragon Kings - because of Druk. During the Bhutanese mock election in 2007, all four mock parties were called the Druk colour Party. The national anthem of Bhutan, Druk Tsendhen, translates into English as ​ ​ 'The Kingdom of Druk'.

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Customs and Traditions

Clothing and National Dress

Bhutan’s national dress is one of the most distinctive and visible aspects of the country. It is compulsory for Bhutanese to wear national dress in schools, government offices and on formal occasions. Men, women and children wear traditional clothing made from Bhutanese textiles in a variety of colourful patterns.

Gho

The men wear a gho, a long robe similar to the Tibetan chuba. ​ ​ ​ The Bhutanese hoist the gho to knee length and hold it in place ​ ​ with a woven cloth belt called a kera. The kera is wound tightly ​ ​ ​ ​ around the waist, and the large pouch formed above it traditionally used to carry a bowl, money and the makings of a doma.

According to tradition, men should carry a small knife at the waist. Traditional footwear is knee-high, embroidered leather boots, but these are now worn only at festivals. Most Bhutanese men wear leather shoes, trainers, or trekking boots.

Ghos come in a wide variety of patterns, though often they have plaid or striped designs ​ reminiscent of Scottish tartans. Flowered patterns are taboo, and solid reds and yellows are avoided because these are the colours worn by monks; otherwise patterns have no special significance. Usually a pair of shorts is worn underneath. In winter it is correct to wear thermal underwear. Formality in Thimphu dictates that legs may not be covered until winter has arrived, which is defined as the time that the monks move to Punakha.

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Kira

Women wear a long floor length dress called a kira. This is a ​ ​ rectangular piece of brightly coloured cloth that wraps around the body over a Tibetan- style silk blouse called a wonju. The ​ ​ kira is fastened at the shoulders with elaborate silver hooks ​ called koma and at the waist with a cloth belt called a kera. Over ​ ​ ​ ​ the top is worn a short, open jacket-like garment called a toego. ​ Women often wear large amounts of jewelry.

The kira may be made from cotton or silk and may have a ​ ​ pattern on one or both sides. For everyday wear, women wear a kira with an embellished pattern woven into it. The most ​ expensive kira are kushutara (brocade dresses), which are made ​ ​ ​ ​ of hand-spun, hand-woven Bhutanese cotton thread.

Marriage

In the past marriages, especially among the upper class, were arranged. However, since the 1970’s the majority of marriages are love-matches. The minimum age is sixteen for women and twenty one for men. In rural areas, it is quite common for the husband to move into his wife’s household and if they divorce he will return to live with his own family.

Polyandry, the practice of taking more than one husband, and polygyny, the practice of taking more than one wife, still exist in certain parts of Bhutan though polygamy is restricted.

There remain a large number of Bhutanese couples who, although living together as a couple, are not formally married. The divorce rate is increasing and there is legal provision for alimony to be paid to take care of the children.

Exchanging Gifts

The exchange of presents is an important part of Bhutanese life. When you receive a present from someone, other than a superior, you are expected to reciprocate by giving a present in return. If the present comes in a container, you are expected to return the container with a few sweets, fruit or biscuits in it. To return an empty container is thought to indicate a lack of prosperity. A present is never opened in public or in the presence of the one bringing it. People will refuse something three times before accepting it.

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When you first move into a house, especially in a rural area, your new neighbours may welcome you with gifts of eggs, apples or potatoes from their garden. Presents are also given to someone going away from home to study overseas or on a long trip.

Bhutanese etiquette on giving and receiving gifts

When receiving a gift, the Bhutanese will always mildly refuse to take the gift for a few minutes with polite comments like: "You really don't have to do this" "You shouldn't have taken so much trouble" it’s okay, I don't really need it", etc. You are expected to press on a second or third time before he/she accepts the gift.

If you are the receiver, you are also expected to politely refuse to accept at least for the first time. The tone of the "pretended" refusal is important - it must not be a loud definite "No".

Visiting on Special Family Occasions

For the first three days after a child is born, until after the lama has performed a purification puja, ​ ​ the mother receives no visitors apart from close family members. Always ask if it’s convenient before visiting a mother with a new baby. A present of eggs, rice or maize would be given in a village and perhaps baby clothes or diapers in a town. A small amount of money is also given to the new baby for good luck. The new mother drinks hot arra enriched with butter and eggs to ​ ​ stimulate her milk.

When someone is married or promoted, it is traditional to present a white scarf and several pieces of cloth. The white scarf is always offered but an envelope containing money sometimes replaces the cloth.

When a death occurs in the family of a friend or colleague, it is polite to visit the family taking a white scarf, an uneven sum of money in an envelope and some food e.g. biscuits for the deceased. Ask when would be a suitable time for your visit. It is much appreciated if you also take a bottle of whiskey for the bereaved. You will be expected to sit quietly for a short time with the family and drink tea.

Dining/Eating Etiquette

When eating in a group, on all occasions, wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, even in restaurants.

When invited as a guest, the host will politely ask to you to start eating once everyone is served. You may notice some members of the family or the host himself will serve himself only after the

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guests have started their meal. This is in keeping with the Bhutanese custom of serving the guests first.

When you invite a Bhutanese for a meal, make sure you request the guest to start the meal. You yourself should start only after they have started eating.

Greetings and Farewells

● Shaking hands is not a Bhutanese tradition but it is becoming quite common, especially in the towns. ● A formal greeting is to bow with hands open and outstretched and the palms up. ● When wishing to be polite or to indicate interest, the Bhutanese add “la” to the end of sentences during a conversation. Often they add “la” even when speaking in English. ● When a senior person enters a room, everyone is expected to stand until the person sits down. When it is time to leave, everyone waits until the guest of honor stands, indicating that he or she is about to go.

Ceremonial Scarves

A ceremonial scarf, kabney, is worn by all Bhutanese men when visiting Dzongs and monasteries ​ ​ and during religious ceremonies and festivals. Women similarly wear a scarf called a rachu. ​ ​ Scarves are also worn when meeting the King, members of the Royal family and, at times, senior officials.The colour of the scarf indicates the rank of a person:

Colour of Scarf Rank

White Majority of People

Blue Royal Advisory Councilors

Red Dasho

Orange Ministers (5 folds) and Deputy Ministers (unfolded)

Saffron yellow King (7 fold) and Je Khenpo

Narrow red cloth Women

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Personal Names

The system of names in Bhutan differs between the north and the south of the country. In the north, with the exception of the royal family, there are no family names. Two names are given to children by monks a few weeks after birth. These are traditional names of Tibetan origin and are chosen because of their auspicious influence or religious meaning. Two names are always given, although a few people have three names.

It is often impossible to tell the sex of a Bhutanese person based on their name. A few names are given only to boys, and others apply only to girls, for example Choekyi, Drolma and Wangmo, but most names apply to either.

In the south, with an evident Hindu influence, a system resembling family names exists. Brahmans and Newars retain their caste name, such as Sharma or Pradhan, and others retain the name of their ethnic group, such as Rai or Gurung.

Forms of Address

● Male member of Royal Family = Dasho ● Female member of Royal Family = Ashi ● Minister = Lyonpo ● High officials = Dasho ● Directors = Dasho ● Teachers = Lopen ● Monk = Gelong or Lopen

Titles are extremely important. All persons of rank should be addressed by the appropriate title followed by their full name. Members of the royal family are addressed as ‘Dasho’ if they are male and ‘Ashi’ if they are female. A minister has the title ‘Lyonpo’ (pronounced ‘lonpo’).

The title Dasho is given to those who have been honoured by the king, receiving also the accompanying red scarf. In common practice, many senior government officials are addressed as Dasho even if they have not received the title, but officially this is incorrect.

You would address a senior monk or teacher with the title ‘Lopon’ (pronounced ‘loeboen’) or, if he has been given the title, as Lam. A trulku (reincarnated lama) is addressed as ‘Rinpoche’ and a ​ ​ nun as ‘Anim.’

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A man is addressed as ‘Aap’ and a boy as ‘Busu’; a woman is addressed as ‘Aum’ and a girl as ‘Bum’. If you are calling someone whose name you do not know, you may use ‘Ama’ for women and ‘Aapa’ for men. In the same situation girls are ‘Bumo’ and boys ‘Alou’. When Bhutanese talk about a foreigner whose name they don’t know, they use the word ‘Chilip’ or, in eastern Bhutan ‘Pilingpa’.

In most cases, these terms of address are followed by the first name or entire name of the person, but never directly by last name. Many in Bhutan, however, will only have one name. Often foreigners are formally addressed by their first name, such as Mr. (first name) instead of Mr. (surname); there is no custom or concept of a surname in the local traditions.

Festivals and Events

The New Year is called Losar, and is celebrated according to the lunar Bhutanese calendar. Losar usually falls between mid-January and mid- March. To complicate matters further, there are different dates for the New Year in various parts of the country.

On an auspicious day near the end of the monsoon season the people celebrate Blessed Rainy Day. This is the day when khandromas (celestial beings) shower blessings on the earth in the ​ ​ form of rain to wash away bad luck. People wash their hair and shower to help wash off evil and sins.

th On the first day of the 10 ​ month the Thimphu rabdey (district monk body) moves to Punakha. ​ ​ ​ The procession includes the Je Khenpo (the Chief Abbot of Bhutan), the four lopons (senior ​ ​ monks) and the entire monk body. The Khamsum Zilnoen, a sacred image of the Zhabdrung, and other relics are also moved with the monks. Local people line up along the dzong to get blessed with the image and relics. The rabdey returns to Thimphu on the first day of the fourth month. ​ ​ The Black Neck Crane Festival in Phobjikha is always held on November 12, the day after the fourth king’s birthday.

National Holidays

Public holidays follow both the lunar calendar and are announced by the Royal Civil Service Commission (www.rcsc.gov.bt). ​ ​

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Holidays

Losar

Losar is the Tibetan word for "new year” which is celebrated for 15 days, with the main celebrations on the first three days. In Bhutan, only the first three days are celebrated and the first two days are national holidays. On the first day of Losar, a beverage called changkol is made from chhaang (a Tibetan cousin of beer). The second day of Losar is known as King's Losar (gyalpo losar). Losar is traditionally preceded by the five day practice of Vajrakilaya. Although it often falls on the same day as the Chinese New Year (sometimes with one day or occasionally with one lunar month difference), it is generally not thought to be culturally directly connected to that holiday. Losar is celebrated by Tibetans, Yolmo, Sherpa, and in Bhutan, although different regions in the country have their own respective new year.

Traditional Day of Offering.

The Traditional Day of Offering is a time of thanks and offerings for the Bhutanese people, typically directed towards Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the famous unifier of kingdom and culture in Bhutan during the early seventeenth century. The day is locally known as buelwa ​ phuewi nyim. ​

Birth Anniversary of Fifth Druk Gyalpo

st nd rd 21 ,​ 22 ​ and 23 ​ February - Celebration to mark the birth of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel ​ ​ ​ Wangchuck

Birth Anniversary of Third Druk Gyalpo

nd 2 ​ May - Celebration to mark the birth of His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It is celebrated as ​ the Teacher’s Day in Bhutan, instead of September 5, International Teacher’s Day.

Lord Buddha's Parinivana

th 15 ​ day of the fourth lunar month is Parinirvana or Nirvana Day according to Mahayana Buddhism ​ that celebrates the death of Buddha, who died more than 2,500 years ago. It signifies a somber reflection and acceptance of the inherent impermanence associated with life, while also highlighting the road to Enlightenment as the way to make positive changes in life.

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Coronation Day of Fourth Druk Gyalpo

nd 2 ​ June - Marks the coronation of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Celebrated as the ​ Social Forestry Day. The schools are involved in planting trees on this day, along with Forestry Departments.

Birth Anniversary of Guru Rinpoche

th 18 ​ June - Celebration to mark the birth of sage guru Padmasambhava ​

Drupchen

September/October - Drupchen is a colorful festival during which dances are performed to bless and protect onlookers and force out any evil. There are clowns, called Atsaras who entertain audiences, Bhutanese ladies who dance and sing around the crowds and masked dances.

Tshechu

September/October - Tshechu reenacts the teachings of Guru Rinpoche, the 8th century spiritual master, through mask dances and is attended by thousands of local people.

The Coronation of Druk Gyalpo

st 1 ​ November ​

Birth Anniversary of Fourth Druk Gyalpo

th 11 N​ ovember ​ Marks the birth of His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuk. Celebrated as Children’s Day by the schools.

National Day

th th 17 ​ December - National day is celebrated on 17 ​ of December in commemoration of the ​ ​ accession of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk, the first king of Bhutan to the throne, at Punakha Dzong.

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Language

For centuries, the different valleys of Bhutan were isolated from each other by torrential rivers and deep gorges. As a result, most of these valleys developed their own dialects. At present, there are about 13 different dialects spoken in Bhutan.

However, there are three major languages: Dzongkha, Sharchopkha and Nepali. Dzongkha is mainly spoken in the west, Sharchopkha in the east and Nepali in the south. News is broadcast in these three languages from the Bhutan Broadcasting Service in Thimphu on short wave and FM.

Dzongkha is the national language of Bhutan. It has some similarity to Tibetan in speaking, while the alphabet is exactly the same as Tibetan (but uses different style of scripts). It is also taught in schools and all students can speak Dzongkha and English. Although Dzongkha is a major subject in schools, English has taken precedence over Dzongkha in terms of students' interest and their literacy, because most of the subjects like mathematics, science and geography are taught in English.

Language Basics

Numbers:

One: Chi ​ Two: Nyi ​ Three: Sum ​ Four: Zhi ​ Five: Nga ​ Six: Dru ​ Seven: Du-in ​ Eight: Gay ​ Nine: Gu ​ Ten: Chu Tham ​

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Greeting: ...... Kuzoo Zangpo La (can be used all day)

Reply: ...... Kuzoo Zangpo La (La is a word for respect, similar to Sir in English)

How are you?: ...... Gadaybay Zhu Ga?

I am fine: ...... Legshom (pronounced Layshom)

Thank You: ...... Kaadinchey La

What is your name?: ...... Choey gi Ming ga chi mo?

...... Na gi Chen ga chi mo? (respectful, for elders)

My name is _____: ...... Ngayi Ming _____ een

Where is the toilet?: ...... Chhabsang ga ti mo?

How much is the cost of this item?: ... Di gi gong ga dem chi mo?

Please reduce the cost a bit: ...... Gong Aa tsi phab nang.

OK I will buy it: ...... Toob, Nga gi nyo ge.

Thank you: ...... Kadrin chhe.

See ya later: ...... Shoo lay log jay ge.

Sit sit: ...... Zhu Zhu

Stand up: ...... Yar long

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Education in Bhutan

Education

Until the 1950s, education in Bhutan was mainly monastic. Literacy was confined to the monasteries, and many eminent Bhutanese scholars traveled to Tibet to study Buddhist scriptures.

In the 1950s, under the second king, His Majesty Jigme Wangchuck, Bhutan opened its first secular schools, with both the curriculum and the medium of instruction (Hindi) borrowed from India. But it was in the 1960s, under the third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, that Bhutan began to build its education system in earnest. Realizing that the small, isolated country needed to be able to communicate with the rest of the world, the third king made English the language of instruction. This laid the foundations for the network of primary, secondary and post-secondary institutions spread across Bhutan today.

At first, schools in Bhutan were few and rudimentary, and could only offer primary education. With few teachers of its own, Bhutan had to recruit teachers, mainly from neighboring India. In the early days, Bhutanese and non-Bhutanese teachers alike had to endure daily hardships and make arduous journeys over treacherous mountain passes and through leech-infested jungles to bring education to the most inaccessible parts of the country.

With the school system still in its early stages, a number of Bhutanese students were sent to study at the highly acclaimed missionary schools in Darjeeling, India. Impressed by the quality of education in these schools, the Bhutan Government asked a Canadian Jesuit, Fr. William Mackey SJ, to leave his school in Darjeeling and help set up a high school system in Bhutan. The Jesuits and nuns who came to Bhutan in the 1960s and '70s worked to establish a fully Bhutanese school system that would strengthen the country’s indigenous cultural and religious traditions while helping its people to modernize.

Since then, education has contributed significantly to Bhutan’s rapid development, in line with its philosophy of “Gross National Happiness.” Being educated in English has enabled Bhutanese students to study in all parts of the world, earning degrees in everything from accounting to medicine to visual arts, and to return to Bhutan to apply their knowledge and skills.

Today, the education system includes formal, non-formal, and monastic schools. Enrolment in the formal system begins at age six, but students can apply to the monastic schools at any age. The non-formal centers provide basic literacy skills for all ages. The government provides free

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education to all students until Grade 10 and scholarships to students who meet the requirements for higher and professional studies.

The educational structure provides for 11 years of basic schooling: one year of pre-primary schooling, six years of primary, two years of junior high and two years of high school. Students undergo an examination to move from primary to junior high, and another to graduate from junior high to high school.

According to the General Statistics 2008 produced by the Ministry of Education, there are 552 ​ ​ formal schools and institutions, 391 monastic schools and 747 non- formal education centers in Bhutan. In the formal schools, girls make up 49.5% enrolment, although it is as high as 52% in urban areas and a few districts. Approximately 23% of primary students, 33% of middle school students, and 60% of higher secondary students enjoy free boarding facilities.

Father Mackey

Father William Joseph Mackey S.J. was a Canadian Jesuit priest who was responsible for establishing the modern education system in Bhutan, including its first high school (which is now its first accredited university, Sherubtse College).

Father Mackey joined the Jesuits in 1932, and was ordained in 1945. In 1946, he left Canada for the Jesuit mission in Darjeeling district of India. He served there for 17 years, during which time he participated in many education programs and was headmaster of two high schools. However, he also became unpopular with local authorities, and in 1963 he was ordered to leave the country.

When the King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, learned of Mackey's imminent expulsion from India, he invited him to become an educator in Bhutan, as part of that country's ongoing modernization efforts. Mackey accepted the invitation. As a preemptive measure, he had all his teeth removed, because he would have no access to modern dentistry in Bhutan.

When Father Mackey arrived in Bhutan in October 1963, the Jesuits became the first Roman Catholic missionary order allowed in the officially-Buddhist nation. During the three decades that followed, Mackey performed no conversions of Bhutanese citizens, as that was forbidden under Bhutanese law.

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His first school, in Tashigang, was based in an abandoned cowshed and had 7 students.

In 1973, Mackey was awarded the royal Druk Thuksey medal for his services to education in Bhutan. In 1985, he was granted honorary Bhutanese citizenship, and in 1988, when the Jesuit order left Bhutan, he was allowed to remain.

After his death in 1995, his obituary on Bhutanese national radio lasted 15 minutes. Despite his express wishes to be buried in Bhutan, the Darjeeling Jesuits claimed his body for burial in their own cemetery.

Higher Education

The Royal University of Bhutan

The Royal University of Bhutan, founded on June 2, 2003 by a royal decree is the national university system of Bhutan. It was established to consolidate the management of tertiary education in Bhutan. It is a decentralized university with 10 constituent colleges spread across the kingdom. The underlying principle which influenced the development of a university system was the government's priority for equitable development.

The Royal University of Bhutan also maintains a strong connection with other universities which include the University of New Brunswick (UNB) in Canada, the School for International Training in the United States, the University of Salzburg in Austria, the University of Delhi in India, etc. in the areas of student exchange and internship programs for both students and faculty.

HM Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the King of Bhutan, is the Chancellor and Dasho Pema ​ ​ ​ Thinley is the Vice Chancellor, and handles the day-to-day administration of the university system.

The Institute of Language and Culture Studies, presently in Semtokha near Thimphu, is slated to expand to 500+ students and move to Taktsi in Trongsa dzongkhag. A primary task of ILCS is to ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ preserve and promote Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan.

The Centre for Bhutan Studies (CBS) in Thimphu, originally slated to become a member institution of the university, has retained its autonomous status.

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History of Canada in Bhutan

Canada's involvement with Bhutan began in the early 1960s with the Canadian Jesuit, Father William Mackey. His work continued until his death in 1995 during which time he was publicly honoured on many occasions for his work in Bhutan. In 1994 the University of New Brunswick recognized him with an honorary degree.

1985:

The World University Service of Canada (WUSC) opened an office in Thimphu. More than 40 Canadian teachers worked in Bhutanese schools and 20 Bhutanese teachers studied at UNB under WUSC.

1992:

After WUSC withdrew from Bhutan because of financial troubles at home, the Canadian High Commission in New Delhi took over the office, changing its name to the Bhutan-Canadian Cooperation Office (CCO). Because of UNB's long association with Bhutan, the Bhutanese government requested that the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) continue its assistance to the education sector through UNB's Education Faculty.

2003:

A formal/diplomatic relationship was established between Bhutan and Canada on 25th June 2003 through an exchange of official letters.

2005:

His Majesty, the Fifth King (then the Crown Prince) received an honorary doctorate from the University of New Brunswick, Canada.

2008:

The last major five-year CIDA project in the education sector ended in late 2008. At this time The Bhutan Canada Foundation, a privately funded non-profit organization was formed.

2011:

The Bhutan Canada Foundation more than triples the number of BCF teachers in the field from six to twenty-one.

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Gross National Happiness

What is GNH?

Gross National Happiness (GNH) measures the quality and achievements of a country in a more holistic way and believes that the beneficial development of human society takes place when material and spiritual development occur side by side to complement and reinforce each other.

Four Pillars of GNH:

● Sustainable Development ● Preservation & Promotion of Culture ● Conservation of Environment ● Good Governance

History of GNH

Gross National Happiness, as the guiding philosophy of Bhutan’s development process, was pronounced by His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, soon after his enthronement in 1972. Over the decades, many conferences and discourses have led to increasing elaboration and development of this concept as well as its practice. The King was clear that happiness is the ultimate end desired, but not necessarily pursued by every Bhutanese and indeed, every human being. All else for which we labour are but means to fulfilling this wish.

Vision of GNH

GNH is a balanced and holistic approach to development. It is based on the conviction that man is bound by nature to search for happiness, and that it is the single most desire of every citizen.

Bhutan hopes to learn from the ongoing discourse on the subject. It is the hope of Bhutan that as more thought is given to this common quest in life, there will be more ideas and reasons why GNH should guide human development to further human civilization.

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Education and GNH

Vision and Goals

The principles and values of Gross National Happiness will be deeply embedded in the consciousness of Bhutanese youth and citizens. Students will see clearly the interconnected nature of reality and understand the full benefits and costs of their actions. They will not be trapped by the lure of materialism, and will care deeply for others and for the natural world.

How GNH will be achieved

Bhutan's entire educational system will effectively cultivate GNH principles and values, including deep critical and creative thinking, ecological literacy, practice of the country’s profound, ancient wisdom and culture, contemplative learning, a holistic understanding of the world, genuine care for nature and for others, competency to deal effectively with the modern world, preparation for right livelihood, and informed civic engagement.

3-year Goals

Bhutan's school system will have GNH-minded teachers and a GNH-infused learning environment, and access to these by all Bhutanese children and youth. Within three years, all of Bhutan's teachers will have received effective education in these areas, and within one year, all of Bhutan’s school principals will have received GNH-inspired education.

Please see the “Educating for GNH” Website www.EducatingForGNH.com ​ ​

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Living in Bhutan

Daily Life

The majority of the Bhutanese population lives in central Bhutan. The main crops grown in this region are rice, buckwheat, barley, potatoes and winter barley. They also grow chillies, which are dried on the roofs of houses before being stored.

Accordingly, daily life revolves around the care of livestock and farm labour. In Bumthang, where the woman is the head of the household, it will be she who decides on the division of farm labour. Bhutanese women are viewed as equal to Bhutanese men and, accordingly, there are only a few forms of labour traditionally viewed as male or female. Weaving and spinning have been reserved for women, while harrowing and ploughing were reserved for men. However, it is not uncommon to see a husband and wife working together ploughing their land. Other tasks such as collecting the harvest, threshing and so forth are done by men and women. Usually women brew the homemade alcohol.

Life for most rural households begins at dawn and ends at sunset. Each morning, the family will make offerings, typically of water, before the household shrine and a simple breakfast of rice will be prepared. Men and women share equally in the day to day care of children, and although women are usually in charge of the household, men are equally able to, and expected to, assist with the cooking. Meals are eaten sitting on the floor, often with personal bowls for rice and a selection of simple shared dishes set out in front. Children are expected to help with the household cleaning or herding the livestock. In the evening, the water from the offering bowls will be poured away and a butter lamp may be lit and left to burn before the household shrine.

Traditionally Bhutanese have been very self-sufficient, often making their own clothing, bedding, floor and seat covers, tablecloths, and decorative items for daily and religious use. There remains a degree of self-sufficiency among the rural Bhutanese, though many day to day items are increasingly imported from Bangladesh, India and Thailand.

Living quarters and Conditions

The living quarters for teachers will vary depending on posting location. They will either be apartment style faculty quarters with own bedroom, shared washroom and kitchen, single apartment with own facilities, or apartment in a traditional farm house. The more remote locations may not have modern conveniences such as electricity and running water. Accommodations will

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include cooking and bathroom facilities and will be adequate for living. The Bhutan Canada Foundation can work with you to find the accommodation and posting location that suit you best.

Toilets

Most hotels provide Western toilets and toilet paper, though there are some exceptions, particularly in Eastern Bhutan. There are very few public toilets so take full advantage of hotel and restaurant facilities before you make the long drive across the country. Most other toilets are of the Asian squat variety and toilet paper isn’t available, though a container of water may be present. Traditional Bhutanese long-drop toilets hang precariously off the side of the upper story of old houses and goembas. Always carry toilet paper and water or hand sanitizer with you.

Time

Bhutan time is GMT/UTC plus six hours. There is only one time zone throughout the country. The time in Bhutan is 30 minutes earlier than in India, 15 minutes earlier than Nepal, and one hour later than Thailand. When it is noon in Bhutan, standard time is 6 am in London, 4 pm in Sydney, 1 am in New York, and 10 pm the previous day in San Francisco.

Food

Staples and Specialties

Traditional Bhutanese food always features devilish red or green chillies. Ema datse comprises of ​ ​ large green (sometimes red, but always very hot) chillies, prepared as a vegetable, not as a seasoning, in a cheese sauce. The second most popular dish is phak sha laphu (stewed pork ​ ​ with radish). Other typical dishes, always served with chillies, are no sha huentseu (stewed beef ​ ​ with spinach), phak sha phin tshoem (pork with rice noodles) and bja sha maroo (chicken in garlic ​ ​ ​ ​ and butter sauce).

One dish that is frequently available is dal bhat (rice and lentils), the traditional mainstay of Nepal. ​ ​ Hotel and trekking guides make some excellent non spicy dishes such as kewa datse (potatoes ​ ​ with cheese sauce) and shamu datse (mushrooms with cheese sauce). Tohsey is a delicious salty, ​ ​ ​ ​ spicy mixture of vegetables and rice made thick with cheese. More seasonal are the delicious asparagus and unusual nakey (fern fronds), the latter typically smothered in the ever- present ​ ​ datse.

Several Tibetan-style dishes are common in Bhutan. Small steamed dumplings called momos may ​ ​ be filled with meat, vegetables or cheese- delicious when dipped in chilli sauce. Fried cheese

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momos are a specialty of several Thimphu restaurants. Barthu is a Bhutanese version of another ​ ​ typically Tibetan dish, thukpa (noodles), which may be fried or served in soup. Village people also ​ ​ eat tsampa, the Tibetan style dish of roasted barley flour mixed with salt and yak butter tea and ​ ​ kneaded into a paste. Look for strings of rock-hard, dried yak cheese, chugo, hanging from shop ​ ​ rafters, but be careful of your teeth.

Momos, traditional Bhutanese dumplings.

Although there is plenty of white rice, the Bhutanese prefer a locally produced red variety, which has a slightly nutty flavour. At high altitudes where rice is not available, wheat and buckwheat are the staples. Zow is rice that is boiled and then fried. It is sometimes mixed with sugar and butter ​ ​ and is commonly carried in a bangchung (covered basket). In Bumthang khule (buckwheat ​ ​ ​ ​ pancakes) and puta (buckwheat noodles) replace rice as the foundation of many meals. A ​ ​ common snack food in the east is gesasip, corn (maize) that has been fried and beaten. ​ ​ When travelling it is wise to carry drinking water and a snack, keeping in mind the possibility that it may take you a long time to reach your destination.

Vegetarian and Vegan

There is a good variety of vegetarian food available, although much of it is made using a liberal amount of chili and a smothering of cheese sauce. Ingredients such as nettles, fern fronds, orchids, asparagus, taro and several varieties of mushroom appear in traditional vegetarian dishes. Vegans should ask if a dish contains cheese or eggs when ordering.

Habits and Customs

Mealtime is typically a relaxed time in Bhutan. It is a social event and family get together; however, the time spent eating may depend as much on how much is put on the table as the need for conversation. Three meals a day is typical, and it is not unusual for those three meals to all consist of rice and ema datse. At a hotel restaurant the full cutlery ensemble will be provided, ​ ​

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but in a local café you may be limited to the option of a spoon or using your right hand and bowl of rice to mop up the meal.

One of the great Bhutanese vices is chewing doma, also known by its Indian name, paan. The ​ ​ ​ ​ centerpiece is a hard Areca catechu nut that is chewed as a digestive. The nut is mixed with lime ​ ​ powder (the ash, not the fruit), and the whole collection is rolled up in a heart- shaped betel leaf and chewed slowly. It’s a bittersweet, mildly intoxicating concoction and it stains the mouth bright red. When the remains are spat out they leave a characteristic crimson stain on the pavement.

While in Bhutan it is important to be punctual, but do not expect everything to run on time. This goes for social gatherings, meetings, buses, etc.

Drinking

Nonalcoholic Drinks

Indian style sweet milky tea (ngad-ja) is widely available and may be served in a pot. Bhutanese ​ ​ frequently drink sud-ja, Tibetan style tea with salt and butter, which is more like soup than tea, ​ ​ and surprisingly tasty and warming on a cold day. Filter coffee and espresso is available in the top end hotels and a few restaurants in Thimphu, but elsewhere ‘coffee’ is invariably of the instant variety.

Avoid tap water directly from the tap. Steps to purify water should be taken. The easiest of these is boiling your water. The best chemical purifier is iodine. It should not be used by pregnant women or those with thyroid problems.

Alcoholic Drinks

The only beer brewed in Bhutan is the very good Red Panda, an unfiltered wheat beer bottled in Bumthang. Throughout the country there’s an ample supply of imported canned beer- Tiger from Singapore and Singha from Thailand, or several brands of Indian beer, which comes in large (650 mL) bottles. The most popular brands are Black Label, Golden Eagle and Dansberg from Sikkim.

There are several brands of whiskey including Special Courier, Black Mountain Whiskey (better known as ‘BMW’), Royal Supreme and Changta, the cheapest. The better brands compare favorably with good Scotch whiskey. There are local rums: XXX Bhutan Rum is the strongest, and gins such as Crystal and Pacham.

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The most common local brew is bang chhang, a warm beer -like drink made from wheat. The ​ ​ favourite hard drinks are arra, a spirit distilled from rice, and sinchhang, which is made from ​ ​ ​ ​ millet, wheat or rice.

Sport

Archery

Bhutan’s national sport is played wherever there is enough space, and remains the favourite sport for all ages. There are archery tournaments held throughout the country. In the countryside you will see the traditional wooden bows, while in Thimphu modern imported bows are often now used.

Archery contests are both an affirmation of Bhutanese cultural identity as well as popular entertainment. The tournaments begin with a short ceremony and breakfast. The targets are placed 140 m. apart. Players often stand close to the targets and call how good or bad the aim of their opponent is- if the contestant hits the target, his team mates will perform a slow dance and sing his praises, while he slips a colorful scarf into his belt. If he misses the opposition mocks his ability.

Women, usually wearing their finest clothes and jewelry, often stand to one side of the archery field and act as cheerleaders. They dance and sing during breaks from the shooting.

Modern Sport

Modern sports, notably basketball, football, golf, tae kwon do, shooting and tennis are rapidly growing in popularity. Basketball is a favourite especially since the king often plays in public on a regular basis. Football teams such as DrukStar in Thimphu have emerged in the main urban areas, and you can see matches taking place on the playing fields at Changlimithang. Bhutan came to the attention of filmmakers during the 2002 World Cup when they arranged for Bhutan to play against the football team of the small island of Montserrat. The documentary film, The ​ Other Final produced by Johan Kramer narrates the events leading up to the football match (held ​ in Thimphu) and the enthusiastic participation of the crowd.

There is a small golf course lying between Tashi Chho dzong and the National Library, plus another at India House. Golf competitions are popular among the emerging middle class. Cricket

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has recently gained popularity despite current lack of sustainable cricket pitches and there are currently 12 cricket clubs in Thimphu alone.

Animals

Snow leopard, blue sheep, red panda, tiger, takin, marmot, and musk deer are some of the species found in the high altitudes. ​ ​

Blue Sheep Takin Himalayan Marmot

Temperate zone fauna include tiger, leopard, goral, serow, gray langur, macaques, Himalayan ​ black bear, red panda, squirrels, sambar, wild pig, and barking deer.

Goral Serow Gray Langur

The tropical forests in the south have tiger, clouded leopard, elephant, greater one-horned ​ rhinoceros, water buffalo, golden langur; gaur, swamp deer, hog deer, pygmy hog, hispid hare, piliated langur, sloth bear, and hornbills.

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Gaur Sloth Bear Hornbill

The Takin – Bhutan’s National Animal

The reason for selecting the takin as the national animal is based both upon its uniqueness and its strong association with the country’s religious history and mythology. When the great saint th Lama Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman, visited Bhutan in the late 15 ​ century, a large ​ congregation of devotees gathered from around the country to witness his magical powers. The people urged the lama to perform a miracle.

The saint however, in his usual unorthodox way, demanded that he first be served a whole cow and a goat for lunch. He devoured these with relish and left him only the bones. After letting out a large and satisfied burp, he took the goats head and stuck it onto the bones of the cow. And then with a snap of his fingers he commanded the strange beast to rise up and graze on the mountainside. To the astonishment of the people the animal rose and ran up to the meadows to graze. This animal came to be known as the dong gyem tsey (takin) and to this day these clumsy looking animals can be seen grazing on the mountainsides of Bhutan.

Black- Necked Crane

The rare and endangered black- necked crane occupies a special place in Bhutanese hearts and folklore. Its arrival every autumn from Tibet inspires songs and dances; it usually heralds the end of the harvesting season and also the time when families start migrating to warmer climates.

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Many legends and myths exist about the bird, which the Bhutanese call throng throng karmo. Wetlands of the high mountain valleys of Phobjikha, Bomdeling and Gaytsa serve as the winter habitat for about 400 – 500 birds. Like other cranes, these have an elaborate mating ritual, a dance in which pairs bow, leap into the air and toss vegetation about while uttering loud bugling calls. It can be difficult to distinguish the sexes because the colouration is so similar, but the females are slightly smaller.

The world’s entire population of 5600 to 6000 black- necked cranes breeds in Tibet and Ladakh. As well as Bhutan, they winter in south-central Tibet and northeastern Yunan province in China. Their migration is one of the most difficult in the world. To reach their winter grounds in Bhutan the birds must traverse the highest Himalayan peaks.

Dogs

Dogs are a visible part of Bhutanese culture. As a Buddhist nation, Bhutan and its people do not believe in euthanizing or fixing dogs. As a result you will no doubt come across hundreds of wild dogs during your stay in Bhutan. Although most dogs are wild, they are typically very friendly. Dogs are popular with the Bhutanese, who believe that the dog is very close to the human on the reincarnation scale –i.e. you might wind up a dog if you don't live correctly. Lastly, dogs are also favored by some of the saints of Bhutan, for example the Divine Madman who always had a dog at his side.

Currency

The currency in Bhutan is called the Ngultrum. It is linked and equal in value to the Indian rupee, which is also accepted in Bhutan. The Ngultrum was introduced in 1974 and was immediately pegged to the Indian Rupee because India was key in assisting the Bhutanese economy just a decade before. The Bhutanese Ngultrum does not exchange independently with other nations, but it is exchanged interchangeably with the Indian Rupee quite often. Before the Ngultrum, Bhutan did not have a currency; instead, the Bhutanese bartered for goods that they were unable to produce on their own (i.e. traded goods and services for a certain amount of other goods and services).

There are few ATMs in Bhutan, and credit cards are only accepted at a few high-end tourist shops in Thimphu. You cannot purchase Ngultrum’s prior to arriving in Bhutan, but you can easily buy them at the Paro airport, at Bhutan National Bank and the Bank of Bhutan, and at major hotels in Thimphu and Paro, all of which accept traveler’s checks and/or dollars and various other

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currencies. When visiting smaller towns however, you should bring Ngultrum’s for your purchases, as it is often not possible to exchange your currency.

Telephone Service

Cell phones work quite well throughout Bhutan and are the preferred method of communication. Many Bhutanese own cell phones and foreign teachers can pick one up in Thimphu upon arrival for orientation. Texting is also available on this service and is the cheapest and easiest way to communicate.

Internet

nd th Full internet use was inaugurated on June 2 ​ 1999, the 15 ​ anniversary of the fourth king’s ​ ​ coronation. You can access Druknet (www.druknet.bt), Bhutan’s internet provider, from any ​ ​ telephone in Bhutan. Bhutan has not yet joined any of the global internet roaming agreements, so a local Druknet account is needed to log in. There are internet cafes in many large towns. For foreign teachers there will be some internet access in their school as well as the opportunity to get internet service into your house or apartment depending on the location. It is possible to purchase portable internet sticks for your laptop in Thimphu as well as very cheap internet from phones with GPRS capability. The Bhutan Canada Foundation staff will assist teachers in this during orientation.

Electricity

For the most part, electrical sockets in Bhutan are one of three types: the "Type C" European CEE 7/16 Europlug, the "Type G" British BS-1363 or the "Type D" Indian 5 amp BS-546. It's just anybody's guess as to which of the three types will be installed at any given specific location. If your appliance's plug doesn't match the shape of these sockets, you will need a travel plug adapter in order to plug in. Travel plug adapters simply change the shape of your appliance's plug to match whatever type of socket you need to plug into. If it's crucial to be able to plug in no matter what, bring an adapter for all three types.

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Electrical sockets in Bhutan usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC. If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.

But travel plug adapters do not change the voltage, so the electricity coming through the ​ ​ adapter will still be the same 220-240 volts the socket is supplying. North American sockets supply electricity at between 110 and 120 volts, far lower than in most of the rest of the world. Consequently, North American appliances are generally built for 110-120 volts.

Shopping

Upon arrival in Bhutan foreign teachers will be taken to the local market in Thimphu by The Bhutan Canada Foundation staff and learn how to navigate Bhutanese shopping. It is here that teachers will do the bulk of their supply shopping before heading out to their posting. Virtually everything can be purchased in Thimphu. This includes but is not limited to gas stoves, furniture, bedding, local dress and dietary staples that are hard to find in the more remote locations.

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Bargaining

Bargaining is not a Bhutanese tradition, and you won’t get very far with your haggling skills here, except with the trailside vendors on the hike to Taktsang and in the local handicrafts section of the Thimphu weekend market. Shops, restaurants and hotels all have fixed prices.

Mail

Mail service within the country and airmail abroad are available, but can be slow at times, unless it is registered or express mail. International parcel post is also available. DHL and Fed Ex provide efficient international courier service to and from Bhutan.

Healthcare and Medical

Before You Go

The following advice is a general guide only and does not replace the advice of a doctor trained in travel medicine. The Bhutan Canada Foundation suggests that all travelers visit their local travel clinic prior to departure.

Pack medications in their original, clearly labeled containers. A signed and dated letter from your physician describing your medical conditions and medications, including generic names, is also a good idea. If travelling with syringes or needles, be sure to have a physician’s letter documenting their medical necessity. If you take regular medication, bring double your needs in case of loss or theft. You can’t rely on many medications being available from pharmacies in Bhutan.

Note: Melatonin is a great natural way to help you get over jetlag.

Travel Insurance and Inoculations

Travel insurance is advised. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, emergency evacuation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects.

Generally, you should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations and anti-malarial requirements before departure. As a minimum you should have tetanus, typhoid and hepatitis A vaccinations.

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We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements (including a spare pair of glasses) as they may not easily be obtained at the locations of your placement.

Personal Space

The Bhutanese have a different approach to personal space and personal property than do westerners. When you arrive in Bhutan you may very well be overwhelmed by the number of people who are constantly arriving on your doorstep, bringing with them gifts of food or asking to look at things you have brought with you from North America. As westerners we may think that this is overbearing or intrusive, but in fact that the Bhutanese are merely worried that new members of their community will feel lonely.

When it comes to personal property the Bhutanese often have a “what’s yours is mine” attitude, primarily based on the fact that, as Buddhists, they have little regard or interest in personal property, as it is of a fleeting nature and relatively unimportant in the grand scheme of human existence.

Travel

Transport

In Bhutan, many roads are single lane and travel by vehicle can be slow and tiring. Even short distances can take longer than expected. Bhutan is currently upgrading a lot of their road network and delays are common. Roads are narrow and speeds are slow. Landslides are common and occasionally trips are diverted due to debris blocking roads. Most roads consist of a series of switchbacks going up and back down mountain passes and can be quite bumpy. If you do suffer from motion sickness, we recommend you bring medication for the drives.

Accommodations

Please note that accommodation in Bhutan can be very simple and infrastructure is not what it is in other parts of Asia. A variety of styles of hotels are used in Bhutan. These can vary in terms of service and efficiency. In many instances they might not be like what you are used to back home. Most of the accommodation is traditional in architecture, style and its services to the guest.

Passport

You need a passport to enter Bhutan and its neighboring countries. You should ensure that it has sufficient empty pages for stamps, especially if you are travelling via India or Nepal. If your

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passport has less than six months of validity left, it is worth getting a new one, because many countries in this region will not issue visas to persons whose passports are about to expire.

Keep your passport safe. No country other than India has the facility for issuing a replacement passport in Bhutan. If you lose your passport, you must travel ‘stateless’ to another country to get it replaced.

You should carry some additional form of identification and a photocopy of your passport to help in such an event. You are advised to bring a few passport photos with you as you need them for many different purposes.

What to Bring

Keep in mind that even in warm weather it can be cool at night. It is best to dress modestly, meaning no tank tops, short skirts, shorts, or revealing clothing

Generally speaking you should pack as lightly as possible. For protection against cold, particularly at night, a number of relatively thin layers is better than a few thick ones. Items to consider packing include:

Clothing

● Trousers ● Long skirt for women (optional) ● Sweater ● Medium jacket for spring and summer ● Short-sleeved T-shirts or cotton shirts ● Long-sleeved T-shirts or cotton shirts ● Long johns for under kira or gho ● Walking shoes or sneakers ● Socks ● Pajamas ● Raincoat or poncho ● Flip flops for the washroom ● Nice shoes for school ● Formal clothes for festivals or special events (one outfit)

*Quick dry items are best, especially during the monsoon season

Medical Kit

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● Sanitary napkins (available in Bhutan but tampons are hard to find) ● Sun block ● Sunglasses ● Hat for sun protection ● Moleskin (for blisters) ● Multi- vitamin

Additional Items for Trekking

● Hiking/trekking boots ● Socks for hiking boots ● Hiking pants or shorts. ● Flashlight (handy for at home when the power goes out)

Cash

Please bring large US bills ($100) because smaller bills do not fetch good exchange rate.

Smoking and Tobacco Related Products

th On the 17 ​ December 2004, in keeping with the decision of the Bhutanese parliament, the ​ nationwide ban on the sale of tobacco products was implemented making Bhutan the first country in the world to do so. The maximum amount of cigarettes that can be imported for personal consumption is 200 pieces. For other tobacco, the maximum import amount is 50 grams. For pipe tobacco, it is three tins of 50 grams each. (after paying import duty and Taxes)

Smoking in public places which includes parks, discotheques, entertainment centers, sports facilities like football grounds and archery ranges, commercial centers including shops, bars and restaurants, institutions like Dzongs, hospitals, schools, and government offices, public transport, public gatherings, official receptions, national celebrations, and vegetable markets is banned

Miscellaneous

● Snacks, such as energy bars ● Camera, extra memory and battery ● Music and some sort of player (phone, etc.) ● Books ● Photos of your family, home, snow, autumn, leaves, etc. You will be asked to show these many times. ● Ziploc bags are useful for keeping things (food, books, etc) dry and away from insects. ● Collapsible umbrella

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Do’s and Don’ts

Despite deep religious beliefs and the pervasiveness of traditional culture, Bhutanese are quite open and liberal. They have a reputation for being the least complicated Asian people to communicate with. There are many complex customs and traditions in Bhutan, but you are not expected to follow all of these.

If you are courteous and respectful of religious beliefs, you are unlikely to cause offence. Using the word la at the end of a sentence in either Dzonkha or English is a sign of respect. ​ ​ You should also follow normal Asian standards of courtesy and behavior in Bhutan. These include respect for monarchy, modest dress, and no public displays of affection. Use the right hand, or better yet, both hands to give or receive an object. Don’t use your fingers to point, especially at deities or religious objects; use an open hand with the palm up. When waving someone towards you, keep your palm pointed down. Never touch the crown of the head, for example a young child’s; this is considered a special part of the body. Most lakes are the abode of gods or spirits. Don’t swim, wash clothes or throw stones into them.

Feet and Face

As in all Asian countries, you should never point your feet at someone. If you are sitting on the floor, cross your legs or kneel so that your feet are pointed behind you. If you happen to sleep in a room where there is an altar or statue, ensure that your feet do not point toward it.

The Asian concept of keeping face also applies in Bhutan. Try to suggest instead of insist. Asian people dislike saying ‘no.’ If you make a suggestion to visit a certain landmark or order a particular dish and are met with an obviously lame excuse, this means that it is probably impossible.

Photography

A camera is still a curiosity in most of Bhutan, particularity in remote villages, and your camera may draw a curious crowd. Photography is not allowed inside any temples; don’t embarrass yourself by asking. If you are attending a festival, do not let your picture taking interfere with the dancers or block the view of the spectators. Most people like having their picture taken, but out of respect, ask first. People love to be shown the photo on the screen.

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Dress

Asian standards of modesty apply. Both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, including short shorts, halter neck tops, and tank tops. Nudity is completely unacceptable.

Resident expats in Thimphu are adamant that visitors should dress up when attending a tshechu or other festival. Bhutanese are too polite to suggest it, and would not openly criticize those who did not dress correctly, but they do appreciate the gesture. Bhutanese are flattered if foreigners wear traditional dress, and are more than happy to help you buy, and put on, a gho or kira, which ​ ​ ​ ​ is not an easy process.

Social Occasions

If you are invited to a Bhutanese home, it is appropriate to bring a small gift, perhaps a bottle of wine or a box of sweets. Social occasions tend to start late and involve extended rounds of drinks and appetizers before dinner, often with several visitors dropping by for a short time. The evening is quickly concluded once dinner is finished.

Recommended Books and Films

● Beyond the Sky and the Earth: A Journey into Bhutan by: Jamie Zeppa ​ ● Bhutan Himalayan Mountain Kingdom (Odyssey Guide. Bhutan) by: Francois Pommaret ​ ● Treasures of the Thunder Dragon by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk ​ ● Under the Holy Lake: A Memoir of Eastern Bhutan by: Ken Haigh ​ ● Buttertea at Sunrise: A Year in the Bhutan Himalaya by: Britta Das ​ ● Bhutan (Country Guide) Lonely Planet ​ ● Travelers and Magicians (film) ​ ● Bhutan: Taking the Middle Path to Happiness (film) ​

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Glossary

Aap: Formal address for an older/ elderly man. ​ ​ Anim: Respectful form of address for a nun. ​ Ara: A local spirit distilled from rice. Often referred to as “Bhutanese moonshine.” ​ Areca catechu: The nut at the center of doma. ​ ​ ​ Ashi: Respectful form of address for a female member of the royal family or high government ​ official.

Assam: A northeastern state in India. ​ Atsara: Clowns that entertain audiences during festivals. ​ ​ Aum: Formal address for a woman. ​ Auspiciousness: The state or quality of being auspicious or successful. ​ Bang chhang: A warm beer like drink made from wheat. ​ Bangchung: A covered basket used for carrying goods. ​ Barthu: A Bhutanese version of another typically Tibetan dish, thukpa (noodles), which may be ​ ​ ​ fried or served in soup.

Bengal: is a historical and geographical region in the northeast region of the Indian Subcontinent, ​ South Asia. Today it is mainly divided between the sovereign land of People's Republic of Bangladesh (previously East Bengal / East Pakistan) and the Indian state of West Bengal, although some regions of the previous kingdoms of Bengal (during local monarchical regimes and British rule) are now part of the neighboring Indian states of Bihar, Assam and Orissa. The majority of Bengal is inhabited by Bengali people who speak the Bengali language.

Bja sha maroo: A dish of chicken in garlic and butter sauce. ​ Bum: Formal address for a girl. ​ Busu: Formal address for a boy. ​ Changkol: A beverage called changkol is made from chhaang (a Tibetan cousin of beer). ​

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Chhaang: A Tibetan cousin of beer. ​ Chorten: Often called a “stupa.” This structure contains Buddhist relics and is used as a place of ​ worship. Chortens dot the Bhutanese landscape and were once used as trail markers for people on foot. Chortens are always to be passed on the left and are to be circumambulated three times in a clockwise direction to gain merit.

Chilip: Word for ‘foreigner’ in Bhutan. ​ Chuba: A chuba is a long sheepskin coat made of thick Tibetan wool worn by many of the ​ ​ ​ nomadic peoples of high altitude in the cold mountains of Tibet and Bhutan.

Chuga: Rock hard dried yak cheese. ​ Dal bhat: A dish of rice and lentils. ​ Dasho: Respectful form of address for a male member of the royal family or high government ​ official.

Doma: A hard nut that is chewed as a digestive. The nut is mixed with lime powder (the ash, not ​ the fruit), and the whole collection is rolled up in a heart- shaped betel leaf and chewed slowly.

Druk: The “Thunder Dragon” of Bhutanese mythology and a Bhutanese national symbol. ​ Dzong: A distinctive type of fortress architecture found in the former and present Buddhist ​ ​ kingdoms of the Himalayas, most notably Bhutan. The architecture is massive in style with towering exterior walls surrounding a complex of courtyards, temples, administrative offices, and monks' accommodation. Dzongs serve as the religious, military, administrative, and social centers of their district.

Dzongkha: The national language in Bhutan. ​ Ema datse: National Bhutanese dish made of chillies and cheese. ​ Gho: The traditional and national dress for men in Bhutan. ​ Gelong: The title for a monk. ​ Gesasip: Corn that has been fried and beaten. ​ Goemba: A Buddhist monastery. ​ Goenkhang: Most lhakhangs have a room called goenkhang devoted to the protective deities, ​ where the statues are usually covered when rituals are not being performed. Items stored in this

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room include weapons, old muskets, armour and round shields. Women are not allowed to enter the goenkhang.

Guru: One who is regarded as having great knowledge, wisdom and authority in a certain area, ​ and who uses it to guide others (teacher). As a principle for the development of consciousness it leads the creation from unreality to reality, from the darkness of ignorance to the light of knowledge. In its purest form this principle manifests on earth as a divine incarnation (saint), a person with supreme knowledge about God and all creation. Other forms of manifestation of this principle also include parents, school teachers, non-human objects (books) and even one's own intellectual discipline.

Je Khenpo: The chief abbot ​ Kabney: A ceremonial scarf worn by all Bhutanese men when visiting Dzongs and monasteries ​ and as well as during religious ceremonies and festivals.

Kewa datse: A dish of potatoes and cheese sauce. ​ Kira: The traditional and national dress for women in Bhutan. ​ Khandromas: Celestial beings ​ Khule: Buckwheat pancakes. ​ Koma: A brooch used to pin a kira together. ​ Kushutara: The most expensive kira that is made out of hand spun, hand woven Bhutanese ​ cotton, embroidered with various colours and designs.

Lama: "chief" or "high priest" is a title for a Tibetan teacher of the Dharma. ​ Lhakhang: A Buddhist temple. ​ Lhotshampas: Means “southerners” in Dzongkha. This term refers to the people who live in the ​ southern part of Bhutan.

Lopen: You would address a senior monk or teacher with the title ‘Lopon’ ​ Losar: New Year in Bhutan. ​ Lyonpo: The title of a minister. ​ Mandala: is a Sanskrit word that means "circle". In the Hindu and Buddhist religious traditions, ​ their sacred art often takes a mandala form. The basic form of most Hindu and Buddhist

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mandalas is a square with four gates containing a circle with a center point. Each gate is in the shape of a T.

Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. ​ Monastic: is a religious way of life characterized by the practice of renouncing worldly pursuits to ​ fully devote one's self to spiritual work.

Nakey: Fern fronds used in cooking. ​ Ngalops: The Ngalops primarily consist of Bhutanese living in the western part of the country. ​ Their culture is closely related to that of Tibet.

Ngultrum: The currency of Bhutan. It is pegged to the Indian rupee. ​ No sha huentseu: A dish of stewed beef with spinach. ​ Paan: The Indian name for doma ​ ​ Phak sha laphu: A dish of stewed pork with radish. ​ Phak sha phin: A dish of pork with rice noodles. ​ Pilingpa: Word for ‘foreigner’ in eastern Bhutan or the English language. ​ Polyandry: refers to a form of marriage in which a woman has two or more husbands at the same ​ time. The form of polyandry in which a woman is married to two or more brothers is known as "fraternal polyandry", and it is believed by many anthropologists to be the most frequently encountered form.

Prostrate: is the placement of the body in a reverentially or submissively prone position. Major ​ world religions employ prostration either as an act of submissiveness to God or gods, or as a means of embodying reverence for a noble person, persons or doctrine. Within various cultures and traditions, prostrations are similarly used to show respect to civil authorities and more accomplished masters. The act is thus often an important part of religious, civil and traditional rituals and ceremonies.

Puja: is a religious ritual performed by Hindus as an offering to various deities, distinguished ​ persons, or special guests. It is done on a variety of occasions and settings, from daily puja done ​ ​ in the home, to temple ceremonies and large festivals, or to begin a new venture. This term is often used to describe Buddhist rituals as well.

Puta: Buckwheat noodles. ​

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Rabdey: District monk body ​ Rachu: A ceremonial scarf worn by all Bhutanese women when visiting Dzongs and monasteries ​ ​ and as well as during religious ceremonies and festivals.

Rinpochey: is an honorific used in Mahayana Buddhism. It literally means "precious one,” and is ​ used to address or describe reincarnated Tibetan lamas.

Rote learning: A learning technique based on memorization. ​ Sadak: Lords of the earth. ​ Shamu datse: A dish of mushrooms and cheese sauce. ​ Sharchops: The sharchops primarily consist of people living in the eastern part of Bhutan. They ​ traditionally follow the Nyingmapa rather than the official Drukpa Kagyu form of Mahayana Buddhism

Sharchopka: The language of the Scharchops of Eastern Bhutan. ​ Shrine room: A room in a house dedicated to Buddhist worship. ​ Sinchhang: An alcoholic beverage made from millet, wheat or rice. ​ Sud-ja: Tibetan style tea with salt and butter, which is more like soup than tea. ​ Thukpa: Noodles which may be fried or served in soup. ​ Toego: A short jacket worn over the kira. ​ Tohsey: a delicious salty, spicy mixture of vegetables and rice made thick with cheese. It is ​ usually made from left over rice and vegetables/ meat curry fried in butter or oil, salt and chillies. It is mostly eaten for breakfast.

Trulku: A reincarnated lama. ​ Tsampa: The Tibetan style dish of roasted barley flour mixed with salt and yak butter tea and ​ kneaded into a paste.

Tsen: Air spirits who can bring illness and death. ​ Tshoem: While tshoem translates literally as "curry," in Bhutan the name refers not to spiciness ​ ​ ​ but to a hearty stew served with rice.

Tshomen: Spirits that live in lakes. ​

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Vajrakilya: Vajrakilaya is a significant Vajrayana deity who transmutes and transcends obstacles ​ and obscurations.

Wheel of life: is a complex symbolic representation of saṃsāra in the form of a circle, found ​ primarily in Tibetan Buddhist art. Saṃsāra is the continuous cycle of birth, life, and death from which one liberates oneself through enlightenment.

Wonju: a Tibetan- style silk blouse. ​ Zow: Rice that is boiled and then roasted a little bit at a time in a dry heated wok with small ​ amounts of oil.

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Bibliography

This guide is for personal use only and is not for distribution or sale. This guide was created with information compiled from the following sources:

"Bhutan." Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 12 October 2010. 15 ​ ​ October 2010. ​ ​ “Bhutan Maps.” Bhutan Majestic Travel. Web. 15 October 2010. ​ ​ ​ ​ “Bhutan: History.” Lonely Planet. Web. 15 October 2010. ​ ​ ​ ​ Brown, Lindsay et al. Lonely Planet: Bhutan. Lonely Planet Publications Pty Ltd, 2007. Print. ​ ​ “Death and Dying in Tibetan Buddhism.” Buddha Net. January 1995. Web. 15 October 2010. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Educating for GNH. Web. 15 October 2010. < http://www.educatingforgnh.com/> ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ Mason, Robin and Rennie, Frank. Bhutan: Ways of Knowing. Google Books. Web. 15 October ​ ​ 2010. ​ Ministry of Education Bhutan. N. p. N.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2010. ​ Savada, Andrea Matles ed. Bhutan: A Country Study. Country Studies. Web. 15 October 2010. ​ ​ ​ ​ “Social Customs and Traditions in Bhutan.” Sociology Index. Web. 15 October 2010. ​ ​ ​ ​ The Bhutan Canada Foundation. N.p. n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2010. ​

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