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Bhutan is a country nestled in the Eastern . The high Himalayas to the north and west separate the kingdom from and the south and east border India. Regions of the country are some of the most remote in the world. A conscious policy of isolation complemented by formidable geographical barriers has enabled the kingdom to maintain its independence throughout its history and as a result its culture and traditions have thrived without external influences. The government is committed to keeping it this way, so all tourism is strongly regulated and only local tour operators can lead groups through the region. The restrictions are tight and solo travel is not encouraged. In fact, Bhutan imposes a daily surcharge for groups under three travelers! A mountain trek is one of the best ways to experience the Himalaya. You will experience Bhutan's natural wonders first-hand when travelling the mountain passes. Our journey will bring us through this isolated kingdom that was opened to the West in 1974. This trip is truly adventure travel where we give up comforts that we’re used to and gain insight into another culture. Be prepared to give up our Western way of thinking and experience another way of life. Namaste!

Much of the information in this document is from http://www.tourism.gov.bt Economists the world over have argued that the key to happiness is obtaining and enjoying material development. Bhutan however, adheres to a very different belief and advocates that amassing material wealth does not necessarily lead to happiness. Bhutan is now trying to measure progress not by the popular idea of Gross Domestic Product but by through Gross National Happiness. While the emphasis is placed on both prosperity and happiness, the latter is considered to be more significant. expressed his view on the goals of development as making “the people prosperous and happy.” With this strong view in mind, the importance of “prosperity and happiness,” was highlighted in the King’s address on the occasion of Bhutan’s admission to the United Nations in 1971. He also said that the rich are not always happy while the happy generally considered themselves rich. While conventional development models stressed on economic growth as the ultimate objective, the concept of Gross National Happiness is based on the premise that true development of human society takes place when material and spiritual development occur side by side to complement and reinforce each other. The four main pillars of Gross National Happiness are: 1. Equitable and equal socio-economic development 2. Preservation and promotion of cultural and spiritual heritage 3. Conservation of environment and 4. Good governance which are interwoven, complementary, and consistent.

These pillars embody national and local values, aesthetics, and spiritual traditions. The concept of Gross National Happiness is now being taken up the United Nations and by various other countries. Gross National Happiness as a development paradigm has now made it possible for Bhutan to take its developmental policies into the remote corners of the kingdom and to meet the development needs of even its most isolated villagers, while still accentuating the need to protect and preserve our rich environment and forest cover. The policy of high value, low impact tourism has facilitated the promotion and preservation of our cultural values. Page 1 of 10 PATAGIONIA PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION Copyright Zephyr Adventures

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Furthermore, the concept of Gross National Happiness has greatly enabled the pursuit of development, while at the same time promoting the attainment of happiness as the core philosophy of life. For the government, it has facilitated the drive towards self sufficiency and self reliance, the ultimate reduction in the gap between the rich and the poor and ensuring good governance and empowerment of her people as one of its key directives. Following the international seminar on Operationalizing Gross National Happiness held in Bhutan in February 2004, the participants began working to establish a Gross International Happiness Network, indicating the influence of Gross National Happiness beyond the Bhutanese Borders. Ethical Travel in Asia While begging children are fairly uncommon in Bhutan, it is best not to give them anything. Often western visitors to poor countries are compelled to give things to children. Candy, money and things like pens are not advised to give directly to children. It is better to give directly to schools, charities, programs, monasteries, or parents. Beggars in general. As far as begging people, such as mothers with kids, physically disabled people, and pilgrims, it is the custom of local people to give a little something (the equivalent of US $1-2). In Buddhist countries, a cultural value includes an oath of generosity as it is one of Buddha’s six paramitas (or perfections). It is ok to give a little to beggars especially pilgrims, mothers, physically disabled, and holy people/monks. That said, compared with other south Asian and Himalayan countries, you don’t see as much poverty in Bhutan. Conservative in public and temples. You should not wear , sleeveless , or other revealing while in Bhutan. Conservative dress is a sign of respect for the local culture and religion. We suggest light trekking pants with zip off shorts. In the mountains, shorts may be okay, but not in the villages, towns, or temples. No public display of affection towards the opposite gender. Touching the opposite sex is considered inappropriate. However, it is okay to show low-key affection towards the same gender. Women often will hold hands as friends for example. Men are commonly affectionate with one another in public and hold hands or walk arm in arm. Your guides will ensure you follow local customs and walk in the sacred direction at temples and shrines, which is clockwise. History Ancient stone implements and other archaeological findings indicate that there were settlements in Bhutan dating back to 2000 B.C. The chronicled history of the kingdom begins with the advent of Buddhism in the eighth century. The country came to be known as Druk Yul or The Land of the Drukpas sometime in the 17th century. The name refers to the Drukpa sect of Buddhism that has been the dominant religion in the region since that period. The country was first unified in 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. After arriving in Bhutan from Tibet he consolidated his power, defeated three Tibetan invasions and established a comprehensive system of law and governance. His system of rule eroded after his death and the country fell into in-fighting and civil war between the various local rulers. This continued until the Trongsa Poenlop Ugyen Wangchuck was able to gain control and with the support of the people establish himself as Bhutan’s first hereditary King in 1907. His

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Majesty Ugyen Wangchuck became the first Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King) and set up the Wangchuck Dynasty that still rules today. In 2008 Bhutan enacted its Constitution and converted to a democracy in order to better safeguard the rights of its citizens. Later in November of the same year, the currently reigning 5th Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was crowned. Geography The total area of Bhutan is only 46,500 square kilometers, about twice the size of New Hampshire. North to south the country is only 90 miles and east to west only 180 miles. But realize the there are no superhighways or speedy transportation through the mountains and short journeys can take a long time. Bhutan can be divided into three major geographic regions from north to south: the high Himalayas of the north, the hills and valleys of the center, and the foothills and plains of the south. People and Population The population of Bhutan is almost 800,000. Bhutanese people can be generally categorized into three main ethnic groups: the Tshanglas, Ngalops and the Lhotshampas, however there are also many other minority groups in the country. Tshanglas: The Tshanglas or the Sharchops as they are commonly known, are considered the aboriginal inhabitants of eastern Bhutan. Besides cultivation of maize, rice, wheat, barley and vegetables, the Tshanglas also rear domestic animals to supplement their living. Weaving is a popular occupation among their women and they produce beautiful fabrics mainly of silk and raw silk. Ngalops: The Ngalops have settled mostly in the six regions of western Bhutan are of Tibetan origin. They speak Ngalopkha, a polished version of Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan. Agriculture is their main livelihood. They cultivate cereals such as rice, wheat, barley and maize along with a variety of other crops. In the regions of and Paro apples are also cultivated as a cash crop. They are known for Lozeys, or ornamental speech and for Zheys, dances that are unique to the Ngalops. Lhotshampas: The Lhotshampashave settled in the southern foothills of the country. It is believed that they migrated from Nepal in the beginning of the 19th century, attracted by the employment opportunities provided by the many constructions works taking place in the kingdom. They speak Lhotshamkha (Nepali) and practice Hinduism. Nowadays they are mainly employed in agriculture and cultivate cash crops like ginger, cardamom and oranges. Society Bhutanese society is free of class or a caste system. Slavery was abolished in the early 1950s through a royal edict. Bhutanese society has always maintained relative gender equality. Living in Bhutanese society generally means understanding some accepted norms such as , the traditional code of etiquette, conduct to adhere to as members of a respectful society. Examples of Driglam Namzha include wearing a traditional () when visiting a Dzong or an office, letting the elders and the monks serve themselves first during meals, offering felicitation during ceremonies such as marriages and promotions and politely greeting elders or seniors.

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Normally, greetings are limited to saying “Kuzuzangpo” (hello) amongst equals. For seniors and elders, the Bhutanese bow their head a bit and say “kuzuzangpo la” (a more respectful greeting). Recently, shaking hands has become an accepted norm. The Bhutanese are a fun-loving people fond of song and dance, friendly contests of archery, stone pitching, traditional darts, basketball and football. They are a social people that enjoy weddings, religious holidays and other events as the perfect opportunities to gather with friends and family. The openness of Bhutanese society is exemplified in the way people often visit their friends and relatives at any hour of the day without any advance notice or appointment and still receive a warm welcome and hospitality. Language Bhutan's official language is Dzongkha, the native language of the Ngalops of western Bhutan. English is the medium of instruction in secular schools. Choekey, classical Dzongkha, is used in traditional and monastic schools. Bhutan is linguistically rich with over nineteen dialects spoken in the country. The linguistic diversity can be attributed to the geographical location of the country with its high mountain passes and deep valleys. These geographical features forced the inhabitants of the country to live in isolation but also contributed to their survival. Dzongkha literally means the language spoken in the Dzongs, massive fortresses that serve as the administrative centers and monasteries. Two other major languages are the Tshanglakha and the Lhotshamkha. Tshanglakha is the native language of the Tshanglas of eastern Bhutan while Lhotshamkha is spoken by the southern Bhutanese of Nepali origin. Some useful Bhutanese phrases: Hello: Ku-zu-zam-po-la (meaning good health) Thank You: Ka din chey la See you: Lok jey gay Good bye: Lus la “or” Laso la Food The most distinctive characteristic of is its spiciness. Chilies are an essential part of nearly every dish and are considered so important that most Bhutanese people would not enjoy a meal that was not spicy. Rice forms the main body of most Bhutanese meals. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are the meats that are eaten most often. Vegetables commonly eaten include spinach, pumpkins, turnips, radishes, tomatoes, river weed, onions and green beans. Grains such as rice, buckwheat and barley are also cultivated in various regions of the country depending on the local climate. Traditional Bhutanese eating habits are simple and, in general, food is eaten with hands. Family members eat while sitting cross legged on the wooden floor with food being served to the head of the household first. It is usually women who serve the food and in most cases, the mother. Before eating, a short prayer is offered and a small morsel placed on the floor as an offering to the local spirits and deities. With modernization, eating habits have changed and in urban areas, people usually eat with cutlery whilst seated at a regular dining table. A wide selection of western and Indian food is also available in many of the restaurants Page 4 of 10 PATAGIONIA PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION Copyright Zephyr Adventures

Information About Bhutan around the country. Traditionally dishes were cooked in earthenware, but with the easy availability of modern goods, pots and pans have largely replaced their use. The following is a list of some of the most popular Bhutanese dishes:  Ema Datshi: This is the National Dish of Bhutan. A spicy mix of chilies and the delicious local cheese known as Datshi. This dish is a staple of nearly every meal and can be found throughout the country. Variations on Ema Datshi include adding green beans, ferns, potatoes, mushrooms or swapping the regular cheese for yak cheese.  Momos: These Tibetan-style dumplings are stuffed with pork, beef or cabbages and cheese. Traditionally eaten during special occasions, these tasty treats are a Bhutanese favourite.  Phaksha Paa: Pork cooked with spicy red chilies. This dish can also include radishes or spinach.  Hoentoe: Aromatic buckwheat dumplings stuffed with turnip greens, datshi (cheese), spinach and other ingredients.  Jasha Maru: Spicy minced chicken, tomatoes and other ingredients that is usually served with rice.  Red Rice: This rice is similar to brown rice and is extremely nutritious and filling. When cooked it is pale pink, soft and slightly sticky.  Goep (Tripe): Though the popularity of tripe has diminished in many countries it is still enjoyed in Bhutan. Like most other meat dishes, it is cooked with plenty of spicy chilies and chili powder. Economy Despite Bhutan’ small population there has been much economic development in recent years and the economy is growing rapidly. While a large part of the Bhutanese population is still illiterate and resides in rural areas (with approximately one in five still living under the poverty line) the majority of all Bhutanese have shelter and are self-sufficient. Rapid modernization has brought about vast improvements in the living standard of the Bhutanese people. All villages now have access to basic amenities such as education, running water, basic healthcare and are connected by roads and electricity. Even the most remote villages have connection to the telecommunication network including mobile phone service. The Bhutanese economy is predominantly agricultural. Farmers supplement their income through the sale of animal products such as cheese, butter and milk. Farmers’ markets are common throughout the country, supplying the people with fresh, organic, local produce. The main staple crops are rice, maize, wheat and buckwheat while cash crops are predominantly potatoes, apples, oranges, cardamom, ginger, and chilies. A fruit-based industry has been established in the capital, allowing farmers from the nearby areas to sell their produce and thereby earn additional revenue. Cottage Industries: Bhutan’s rich biodiversity provides the country with ample forest resources and this has brought about the development of a thriving cane and bamboo handicraft industry. Craftsmen weave a number of beautiful and intricate items out of bamboo and cane including , backpacks, floor mats and traditional bowls. These items are then sold to tourists or Bhutanese, supplying a secondary income source. Tourism: The Bhutanese Tourism Industry was first opened in 1974. Since then it has grown to become a major contributing factor to the Bhutanese economy creating countless employment opportunities and generating additional revenue for the government. The government is committed to building a sustainable tourism industry that is not only financially viable but also limits the negative cultural and environmental impacts commonly associated with the culture of mass tourism. By establishing a policy of “High Value, Low Impact’ tourism, the kingdom of Bhutan seeks to ensure that it attracts only the most discerning visitors with a Page 5 of 10 PATAGIONIA PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION Copyright Zephyr Adventures

Information About Bhutan deep respect for cultural values, traditions and the natural environment. To this end efforts have been made to ensure that even remote areas are publicized and able to reap the benefits of tourism while still respecting their traditions, culture and natural environment. Hydroelectricity: Due to its fast flowing, glacier-fed rivers, Bhutan has enormous potential to produce hydroelectricity. With the construction of several major dams, the power sector has undeniably been a large contributor to the economy. Several power companies under the of Druk Green Power Corporation, are some of the existing mega projects in the country. The 1500 MW of power they generate, most of which is exported to neighboring India, barely scratches the surface of Bhutan’s untapped hydroelectric potential. With its abundant water resources, Bhutan still has the capacity to generate another 30,000 MW of electricity. However, the government is proceeding cautiously with new construction projects in order to minimize the impact upon the surrounding areas. Manufacturing: The Manufacturing sector is another major contributor to national revenue. With the industrial sector established in Pasakha, small scale industries such as cement plants, calcium and carbide, steel and Ferro silicon, Coca Cola and also wood-based industries have started developing. As a result of the recent economic development, Bhutan has one of the highest per capita incomes in South Asia at US $1,321. Politics The political system of Bhutan has evolved over time together with its tradition and culture. It has developed from a fragmented rule of the different regions by local chieftains, lords and clans into the parliamentary democracy in place today. A major change came about in 1907 when the people unanimously enthroned Ugyen Wangchuck as the first hereditary King of Bhutan. He was the man who had proven his mettle by banding together the different Dzongpons and Penlops (governors of fortress), ending centuries of strife and bringing much-needed stability and peace to the country. Since then, the country has been ruled by successive monarchs of the Wangchuck dynasty. The establishment of the Royal Advisory Council (Lodoe Tshogde) in 1963 as a link between the king, council of ministers and the people was another move towards democratization. It also advised the king and the council of ministers on important issues and ensured that projects were implemented successfully. But the devolution of the power of the King in 1998 to the cabinet ministers was the highest form of decentralization. The King, thereafter, began to serve as the Head of the State while the government was managed by the Prime Minister. In November 2001, on the advice of the Fourth king, a committee chaired by the Chief Justice of Bhutan, was formed to draft the . The constitution was launched in 2008 and with it a parliamentary democracy introduced. The progression from Hereditary Monarchy to that of a Parliamentary Democracy has been a carefully managed process that culminated in 2008 when Bhutan held its first elections country wide. The Druk Phunsum Tshogpa was mandated by the people to head the new government with a major victory with 45 elected members. The term of DPT (Druk Phuensum Tshogpa) has ended and people have chosen PDP (People’s Democratic Party) in 2013 as the new government. Today Tshering Tobgay is the Prime Minister of the new government.

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Religion The Bhutanese constitution guarantees freedom of religion and citizens and visitors are free to practice any form of worship so long as it does not impinge on the rights of others. Christianity, Hinduism and Islam are also present in the country. Bhutan is a Buddhist country and people often refer to it as the last stronghold of Vajrayana Buddhism. Buddhism was first introduced in the 8th century. Until then the people practiced Bonism, a religion that worshipped all forms of nature, remnants of which are still evident The Buddhism practiced in the country today is a vibrant religion that permeates nearly every facet of the Bhutanese life style. It is present in the Dzongs, monasteries, stupas, prayer flags, and prayer wheels punctuate the Bhutanese landscape. The chime of ritual bells, sound of gongs, people circumambulating temples and stupas, fluttering prayer flags, red robed monks conducting rituals stand as testaments to the importance of Buddhism in Bhutanese life. The form of Buddhism practiced in Bhutan has absorbed many of the features of Bonism, such as nature worship and animal sacrifice. For example, mountain peaks were considered as the abodes of guardian deities (Yullha), lakes were inhabited by lake deities (Tshomem), cliff deities (Tsen) resided within cliff faces, the land belonged to subterranean deities (Lue and Sabdag), water sources were inhabited by water deities (Chu giLhamu), and dark places were haunted by the demons (due). Every village has a local priest or a shaman to preside over the rituals. These shamanistic rituals are performed for various reasons ranging from to keep evil spirits at bay, bring in prosperity, to cure a patient or to welcome a new year. A common feature in all of these rituals is the sacrifice of animals like oxen, fish, a chickens or goats.

Culture While Bhutan is one of the smallest countries in the world, its cultural diversity and richness are profound. Strong emphasis is laid on the promotion and preservation of its unique culture. By protecting and nurturing Bhutan’s living culture it is believed that it will help guard the sovereignty of the nation. Some cultural practices are listed below.  FUNERALS. Death signifies re-birth or a mere passing on to a new life. In keeping with the traditions, elaborate rituals are performed to ensure a safe passage and a good rebirth. The 7th, 14th, 21st and 49th days after a person’s death are considered especially important and are recognized by erecting prayer flags in the name of the deceased and performing specific religious rituals. While the deceased are normally cremated, funerary practices vary among the southern Bhutanese and the nomadic Brokpas of northern Bhutan. Southern Bhutanese typically bury their dead while the Brokpas carry out “Sky Burials,” a process in which the deceased are prepared and left atop mountains to be devoured by vultures in a final act of compassion and generosity.  BIRTHS. The birth of a child is always welcomed. In Bhutan extended family and guests are discouraged from visiting during the first three days after the birth. On the third day, a short purification ritual is performed after which visitors are welcomed to visit the new born and mother. Bhutanese value children as progenitors of the future and therefore do not discriminate on the sex of the child. Traditionally various gifts are offered ranging from dairy products to cloth and money. The child is not immediately named; this responsibility is usually entrusted to the head lama (Buddhist priest) of the local temple. The mother and child will also receive blessings from the local Page 7 of 10 PATAGIONIA PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION Copyright Zephyr Adventures

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deity (natal deity) and it was traditional that the name associated with the deity is given. In some cases, the child is given the name of the day on which the child is born. Based on the Bhutanese calendar, a horoscope is written based on the time and date of the birth, this will detail the various rituals to be performed at different times in the life of the child and to an extent predict his or her future  MARRIAGES. Until just a few decades ago arranged marriages were common and many married among their relatives. In eastern Bhutan cross-cousin marriages were also once common, however, this practice is now becoming less common place among the literate masses and most marriages are based on the choice of the individuals. Marriages are simple affairs and are usually kept low-key. However, elaborate rituals are performed for lasting unions between the bride and the bridegroom. As the religious ceremony comes to an end, parents, relatives and friends of the couple present the newlyweds with traditional offerings of scarves along with gifts in the form of cash and goods. In the Western Bhutan, it was commonplace that the husband goes to live in his wife’s house after marriage while the practice in Eastern Bhutan is for the wife to move into the husband’s home. Of course, the newlyweds may also choose to live on their own. Divorce is also an accepted norm and carries no ignominy or disgrace within the country  DRESS. One of the most distinctive features of the Bhutanese is their traditional dress. One of the most distinctive features of the Bhutanese is their traditional dress, unique garments that have evolved over thousands of years. Men wear the , a knee-length somewhat resembling a kimono that is tied at the waist by a traditional known as Kera. The pouch which forms at the front traditionally was used for carrying food bowls and a small dagger. Today however it is more accustomed to carrying small articles such as wallets, mobile phones and Doma (beetle nut). Women wear the , a long, ankle-length dress accompanied by a light outer known as a Tego with an inner layer known as a . However, tribal and semi-nomadic people like the Bramis and Brokpas of eastern Bhutan generally wear clothing that differs from the rest of the Bhutanese population. The Brokpas and the Bramis both wear woven either out of Yak or Sheep hair. Bhutanese still wear long scarves when visiting Dzongs and other administrative centers. The scarves worn vary in color, signifying the wearer’s status or rank. The scarf worn by men is known as Kabney while those worn by women are known as Rachus. The Rachu is hung over a woman’s shoulder and unlike the scarves worn by men, does not have any specific rank associated with its color. Rachus are usually woven out of raw silk and embroidered with beautiful rich patterns. Climate The climate in Bhutan is extremely varied. This variation in the climatic conditions and average temperature can be attributed to two main factors, the vast differences in altitude present in the country and the influence of the north Indian monsoons. The country can be divided into three distinct climatic zones corresponding broadly to the three main geographical divisions (we will be in the central zone for most of our time and trekking into the northern, alpine region):  The southern belt has a hot, humid, sub-tropical climate that is fairly unchanging throughout the year. Temperatures can vary between 15-30 degrees Celsius (60 – 86 Farenheit).  Central Bhutan has a cool temperate climate. In the Central parts of the country the climate cools a bit, changing to temperate and deciduous forests with warm summers and cool, dry winters. Page 8 of 10 PATAGIONIA PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION Copyright Zephyr Adventures

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 The northern region has a severe alpine climate. Rainfall can differ within relatively short distances. In the far Northern reaches of the kingdom the weather is cold during winter. Mountain peaks are perpetually covered in snow and lower parts are still cool in summer owing to the high altitude terrain. 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 that long drive. Having said that, it is possible you will encounter toilets that neither look nor smell like those you use at home. Just be prepared! Most public toilets are of the Asian squat variety and toilet paper isn't available, though a container of water should be present. You should always carry toilet paper and wet wipes with you! Environment Due to Bhutan’s location and unique geographical and climatic variations, it is one of the world’s last remaining biodiversity hotspots. Its pristine environment, with high rugged mountains and deep valleys, offers ecosystems that are both rich and diverse. Recognizing the importance of the environment, conservation of its rich biodiversity is one of the government’s development paradigms. The government has progressive conservation policies with 72 percent of the land forested and 8 percent cultivated for agriculture. By law, at least 60% of the country must remain forested for all future generations. These protected areas are comprised of 10 national parks and sanctuaries. Each of Bhutan’s National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries are an essential part of the Bhutan Biological Conservation Complex – a system of national parks, protected areas and forest corridors. Each of these parks and sanctuaries has its own special character and are home to endangered animals, birds and plants. The array of flora and fauna available in Bhutan is unparalleled due to conservation and its wide altitudinal and climatic range. Forest types in Bhutan are fir forests, mixed conifer forest, blue pine forest, chirpine forest, broadleaf mixed with conifer, upland hardwood forest, lowland hardwood forest, and tropical lowland forests. Almost 60% of the plant species found in the eastern Himalayan region are present in Bhutan. Bhutan boasts of about 300 species of medicinal plants and about 46 species of rhododendrons. Some common sights for the visitors are the magnolias, junipers, orchids of varied hues, gentian, medicinal plants, Daphne, giant rhubarb, the blue and trees such as fir, pine and oaks. A wide range of rare and endangered animals can also be found frequenting the dense jungles and high . Due to the countries conservation efforts and its unspoiled natural environment Bhutan supports thriving populations of some of the rarest animals on earth and has thus been classified as one of the last biodiversity hotspots in the world. Some high altitude species are the snow leopards, Bengal tigers that are found at altitude ranging 3000 to 4000 meters, the red panda, the gorals and the langurs, the Himalayan black bear, sambars, wild pigs, barking deer, blue sheep and musk deer. In the tropical forests of Southern Bhutan one can come across clouded leopards, the one horned rhinoceros, elephants, water buffaloes and swamp deer. You can even find the Golden Langur, a species of monkey that is unique to Bhutan.

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Bhutan also has a great variety of bird species, with about 415 resident bird species. These birds are altitudinal refugees, moving up and down the mountains depending upon the seasons and weather conditions. Of about 50 species of birds that migrate during the winters are the buntings, waders, ducks, thrushes and the birds of prey. Some 40 species are partial migrants and they include species such as swifts, cuckoos, bee-eaters, fly catchers and warblers. Recreation The traditional Bhutanese sports and games are degor (discus), pungdo (shotput), khuru (darts), and keshi (wrestling). Modern sports such as soccer, basketball and lawn tennis are also popular among the younger group. However, archery, the national sport, remains the favorite for both the younger and the older folks alike. Traditional archery contests are organized on most holidays and special occasions like the Losar (New Years) throughout the country. These tournaments almost always take on mythic attributes as the teams consult local astrologers to assist in the selection process and to help cast spells on the opposition. Bhutan sent its first team to the Los Angeles Olympics in 1984.

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