note: there may be two new districts named Gasa and Yangtse.
Population:
2,049,412 (July 2001 est.)
note: other estimates range as low as 800,000
Currency:
ngultrum (BTN); Indian rupee (INR)
Languages:
Dzongkha (official), Bhotes speak various Tibetan dialects, Nepalese speak various Nepalese dialects
Elevation:
highest point: Kula Kangri 7,553 m
lowest point: Drangme Chhu 97 m
Natural hazards:
violent storms coming down from the Himalayas are the source of the country's name which translates as Land of the Thunder Dragon; frequent landslides during the rainy season
Climate:
varies; tropical in southern plains; cool winters and hot summers in central valleys; severe winters and cool summers in Himalayas
The economy, one of the world's smallest and least developed, is based on agriculture and forestry, which provide the main livelihood for more than 90% of the population. Agriculture consists largely of subsistence farming and animal husbandry. Rugged mountains dominate the terrain and make the building of roads and other infrastructure difficult and expensive. The economy is closely aligned with India's through strong trade and monetary links. The industrial sector is technologically backward, with most production of the cottage industry type. Most development projects, such as road construction, rely on Indian migrant labor. Bhutan's hydropower potential and its attraction for tourists are key resources. The Bhutanese Government has made some progress in expanding the nation's productive base and improving social welfare. Model education, social, and environment programs in Bhutan are underway with support from multilateral development organizations. Each economic program takes into account the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions. Detailed controls and uncertain policies in areas like industrial licensing, trade, labor, and finance continue to hamper foreign investment.
Bhote 50%, ethnic Nepalese 35%, indigenous or migrant tribes 15%
Yellow fever:
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from travellers coming from infected areas.
Malaria:
Malaria risk exists throughout the year in the southern belt of five districts: Chirang, Samchi, Samdrupjongkhar, Sarpang and Shemgang. P. falciparum resistant to chloroquine and sulfadoxine–pyrimethamine reported.
