Understanding Locals: Bhutanese

Bhutan is a country in the eastern Himalayas, known for its unique culture, rich biodiversity, and commitment to preserving its traditional values. The indigenous people of Bhutan are primarily of Tibetan-Burmese origin and are known as the "Ngalops" or "Drukpas.” are culturally and ethnically similar to the Tibetan people. They primarily practice Buddhism, specifically the Drukpa Kagyu tradition, which is the state religion of Bhutan.

Picture source: Wonderful Bhutan | Tsem Rinpoche

The Ngalops speak Dzongkha, which is the official language of Bhutan. The traditional dress of the Ngalops, is called "Gho" for men and "Kira" for women. The Gho is a knee-length robe tied at the waist, and the Kira is an ankle-length dress wrapped around the body. Other well known facts that is unique to Bhutan is its focus on the well-being and happiness of its citizens. The concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) is a guiding principle in Bhutan's governance, emphasizing sustainable development, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation. The indigenous people of Bhutan have a rich tradition of arts and crafts, including intricate woodwork, thangka paintings, handwoven textiles, and traditional music and dance forms.

The indigenous people of Bhutan play a vital role in preserving and promoting the country's rich cultural heritage, making Bhutan a fascinating and enchanting destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of tradition, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Himalayas. At TWELF-X, we believe in the preservation of heritage, very much like our watch creations. TWELF-X is built by a family of watch enthusiasts with the passion for traditional watch craftsmanship. The family has over six decades of experience in the watch industry and has passed down, from generation to generation, the closely guarded know-hows of building a good watch.