Religion in Bhutan

Bhutan is predominantly a Buddhist kingdom. This is reflected in the thousands of monasteries, temples, stupas and prayer flags that mark the country’s rugged and beautiful mountainous terrain.

The Constitution of Bhutan provides for freedom of religion but prohibits religious conversions. The country has adopted Mahayana Buddhism as its official and state religion which is practiced by more than 75% of its population. As a state religion, it is supported financially by the government through annual subsidies that also extend to Buddhist monasteries, shrines, and monks and nuns. During the reign of Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, the government supported the manufacture of 10,000 gilded or gold-plated bronze images of the Buddha, publication of calligraphic editions of Kanjur, a collection of the teachings of the Buddha, and Tenjur, a collection of commentaries, and the construction of numerous chorten or Buddhist shrines throughout the kingdom.

Brought into the country in the 8th century, Buddhism continues to play a fundamental role in the sociological, cultural and ethical development of Bhutan and its population. The central figure of the faith is the monk who is held in high esteem as he plays an active part in the life of communities through religious ceremonies.