ABOUT BHUTAN GEOGRAPHY By Sonam Choden.

GEOGRAPHY OF BHUTAN Bhutan is 6 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Bhutan GMT +6. Geographic coordinates: N, E Located between the China on the north and India on the south. Bhutan's total borders amount to 1,075 kilometers. Total area: 18,147 sq mi (47,000 sq km)

POPULATION Population (2008 est.): 2,376,680 Capital and largest city (2003 est.): Thimphu (official), 60,200 Ethnicity/race: Bhote 50%, ethnic Nepalese 35%, indigenous or migrant tribes 15% Religions: Lamaistic Buddhist 75%, Indian- and Nepalese-influenced Hinduism 25% Literacy rate: 47% (2003 est.)

Natural geography Bhutan's climate is as varied as its altitudes Annual precipitation ranges widely in various parts of the country with average of around 1,000 millimeters The Himalayas dominate the north of the country The Kula Kangri, at m Gangkhar Puensum the highest at 7570 m

Political Geography Bhutan is divided into 20 dzongkhag, and further into 201 gewog. Each dzongkhag is headed by a dzongdag (district administrator) The process of decentralisation of the administration started in 1981

Strategic Location The heartland of Bhutan has never been invaded by any one. India has a special relationship with Bhutan The Tibetans have strong cultural, historical, and religious connections to Bhutan.

ECONOMIC SUMMARY GDP/PPP (2007 est.): $3.359 billion; per capita $5,200. Agriculture: rice, corn, root crops, citrus, foodgrains; dairy products, eggs. Industries: cement, wood products, processed fruits, alcoholic beverages, calcium carbide Natural resources: timber, hydropower, gypsum, calcium carbide. Ap ki mrs ko regards day Exports: $154 million (electricity ), cardamom, gypsum, timber, handicrafts, cement, fruit, precious stones, spices.

TOURISM OF BHUTAN “High Value, Low Volume” »Responsible Tourism »Unique Character »Authenticity »Quality

TOURISM IN BHUTAN 2008: Number one destination to visit 2007: Top Country (Wanderlust) Top foreign exchange earner

Travel Information By air or land Package holiday can be booked through both International and Bhutanese local tour operators Free individual travel is not allowed

Travel Information Daily Tariff High Season Tariff US$ 250 per person per night halt Low Season Tariff US$ 200 per person per night halt

Travel Information The minimum price includes: All internal taxes and charges Accommodation All Meals All travel with a licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide All Internal Transport Camping Equipment for Trekking Tours

Travel Information Visa Formalities The visa will be stamped in the passport on payment of US$20 at the entry point but the clearance must be obtained before coming to Bhutan

Attractions

Thank you and Tashi Delek