Religion:

The Bhutanese way of life is greatly influenced by its religion. The Drukpa Kagyu order of the Mahayana Buddhism is the state religion of the kingdom. Buddhism is practiced throughout the country though, in the south most Bhutanese people of Nepali and Indian descent practice Hinduism.

The Buddhist faith has played and continues to play a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its people. The influence of Buddhism since the eight century has immensely shaped Bhutan’s unique history and destiny and has left an everlasting mark in enlightening the Bhutanese way of life. Annual festivals (tshechus and dromchoes) are spiritual occasions in each district. They bring together the population of the district and are dedicated to either Guru Rimpoche or other deities.

Throughout Bhutan, Dzongs(castles), stupas and chortens line the roadside and mountain trails .They ward off evil spirits and protect travelers and residents from imminent danger. Prayer flags are even more common. Fluttering on mountain slopes, bridges, high passes, transmitting prayers to the gods. People circumambulating the chortens, temples with prayer beads and twirling prayer wheels are a common sight. A beautiful blending of the spiritual and the ritualistic tradition characterizes religion in Bhutan. Religion is the essence of Bhutanese life and society. Buddhist values and traditions still permeate every aspect of the Bhutanese culture and ethos. Bhutan is truly a perfect representation of the perfect harmony of the Buddhist way of life.