Culture of Bhutan

While the Bhutanese are free to travel abroad, Bhutan is seen to be unreachable to foreigners. The widespread misperception that Bhutan has set limits on tourist visas, the high tourist tariff and the requirement to go on packaged tours seem to create this impression.

The habitual dress for Ngalong and Sharchop men is the gho, a knee-length robe tied at the waist by a cloth belt known as the kera. Women wear an ankle-length dress, the kira, which is clipped at one shoulder and coupled at the waist. Social status and class determine the quality, colours, and decorations that embellish the garments. Scarves and shawls are also indicators of social standings, as Bhutan has conventionally been a feudal society. Earrings are worn by females. Controversially, Bhutanese law now requires these garments for all Bhutanese citizens.