'Respect for Culture and Religion' is one of the four pillars of Bhutan's Index of Gross National Happiness. The Driklam Namzhag requires that Bhutanese wear national dress on many occasions - whether at work or in the Dzong. Where better to see this than at a Festival such as Jakar (above and right) or an archery contest - one of Bhutan's favourite sports.
Men wear a long robe (gho) and shirt with sleeves folded back (togo). On formal occasions a scarf (kab-ne) is also required. Women wear a silk blouse (wangjuk) and a long seamless dress (kira). A sash or waistband (kera) is worn by men and women and provides a helpful pouch above the waist.
A high proportion of Bhutanese are still rural. With the exception of small three wheel tractors and plastic sheeting, farming methods appear to have changed little. Whether gathering and threshing rice by hand, harvesting pears (left) or ploughing with oxen, methods are probably the same as a hundred years ago.
Culture and religion make the Bhutanese very hospitable. Almost everyone we met was friendly, curious and welcoming.
