Religion

Buddhism in Bhutan - Practiced Religion and Tradition

Religion and culture go hand in hand in Bhutan. The Buddhist faith permeates the entire life of the people. As the state religion, the values and teachings are passed down from generation to generation. In Bhutan, Buddhism is also based on three pillars: Dharma, Buddha, Sangha.

In Buddhism, every form of life is sacred. The struggle between good and evil, the belief in reincarnation, determine the lives of the country's inhabitants. From this profound spirituality, the people of Bhutan draw their strength.

The Buddhism of Bhutanese religion is very complex and has continued in several different schools. Among them are two schools that dominate the faith: the Kagyu-Pa school and the Nyingma-Pa school. The highly important Kagyu-Pa school also provides the spiritual leader (Je Kempo).

Bhutan's Dzongs and monastic fortresses with history

Every year, the population celebrates their globally renowned festivals with colorful masks, costumes, and songs. Experience the transmission of Buddhist teachings and values up close on a festival trip.

These monastery festivals, celebrated among family and friends, take place in the historic dzongs, the Buddhist fortresses. Across the country, you will find over 2000 of these monastic fortresses, shaped according to the concept of the Buddhist universe and representing compassion and tolerance.

Every life is respected, and all people are considered equal. The architecture of the complexes is deeply influenced by religious elements and colors. The dzongs, as well as many stupas and chortens, bear witness to the deep religiosity of the population. This is evident from afar by the ubiquitous fluttering prayer flags.

The monks, clad in red robes, create a spiritual atmosphere that has been a tradition for centuries.

Hinduism - a part of Bhutan's religion

Immigrants from India and Nepal also introduced Hinduism to Bhutan. About a quarter of the population are devout Hindus, making Hinduism the second largest religion in Bhutan.

The Lhotshampa, also known as the Southern Bhutanese or "Southerners," brought this religious form to the country in the 19th century. Due to limited contact with other population groups, they were able to maintain their language, faith, and traditions.