The art and architecture of Bhutan go back almost as far as the country itself. These magical buildings and works of art are a sought after attraction for many visitors!

Art

Bhutan has 13 national arts and crafts, all of which are based in Buddhism. The 13 arts, bamboo work, blacksmithing, carving, casting, ornament making, painting, paper making, sculpting, stonework, tailoring, embroidery and applique, weaving, wood turning, and woodwork are known as Zorig Chusum.

Bamboo Work

Bamboo work, or thazo, is popular in many regions of Bhutan. Most of the bamboo work is done to make baskets for home and travel.

Blacksmithing

Blacksmithing, also known as garzo, is one of the oldest crafts in Bhutan. sword making, knife making, and darts are some of the more popular metal crafts produced in the area.

Carving

Carving can refer to the carving of wood, stone or slate. The most common is wood carving and it is often used to make carved wooden books.

Painting

Lhazo is the Bhutanese word for painting. It can include all kinds of paintings, but most paintings are religious or spiritual in nature. One interesting thing about Bhutanese paintings is that they are always anonymous, as no one signs their names on their art work.

Paper Making

Paper-making, also known as Deysho is made from the bark of the daphne plant. Deysho is used for religious texts as well as gift wrapping because of it's durability.

Sculpting

Many of Bhutan's sculpture is done in clay. The Institute of Zorig Chosum teaches sculpting as a core subject. Most of the sculpting done in Bhutan is religious in nature and many of the figures that are made are of Buddha.

Textiles

With industrialization in other parts of the world, the art of textiles has become lost in most places. Bhutan is one of the few places that retains the art of creating textiles. Bhutanese women weave beautiful tapestries combining colors, patterns, and textures for gifts. Textiles are often given as gifts for weddings, births, promotions on a job, and death.

Architecture

The architecture of Bhutan is some of the most unique and beautiful in the world. Fortresses, monasteries, and even traditional homes are breathtaking.

Dzongs

These massive fortresses currently house clergy and district administration. When they were built in the 12th century, they were built as a defensive system and even now are a symbol of security. Most of these structures were built without plans and are all based on the same design. In addition to being fortresses, they have also been used as trading posts and festival venues.

Monasteries

There are over 2,000 monasteries in Bhutan. These religious centers house monks, as well as provide a location for cultural and religious events. Religion is a major part of the life of the Bhutanese, and the monasteries are central to their spiritual life. You can tell a monastery from another building because it will have a golden pinnacle on the roof and a maroon band on the top of the walls.

Chortens

A chorten is a receptacle for an offering of worship. These chortens can be seen all over the country and again show the deeply spiritual nature of the Bhutanese people. There are 8 different styles of chortens and they are built on the five symbolic elements of earth, air, fire, water, and the light of Buddha. These structures can also be built in memory of a family member or to house the possessions and bodies of great lamas or saints.

Traditional Houses

Traditional homes in Bhutan are built with many different materials. They can be built from earth, stone, concrete or even mud blocks. Most houses are large and contain an altar room, which is also where guests stay. The roofs of these homes are functional and are used for drying crops. These beautiful homes are often whitewashed and become a beautiful part of the landscape.

To visit these unique architectural designs for yourself, please visit Bhutan! To book your trip, or for more information, click here.