Religious Communities
Bhutan is the last place on Earth where traditional Himalayan Buddhism is practiced widely and influences all aspects of daily life and society. Since Bhutan has never been colonized or occupied by any foreign invaders since the coming of Buddhism in the 7th century, Buddhist traditions in Bhutan have evolved unbroken for more than 1,000 years. There are approximately 6,000 monks living in hundreds of monastic communities that dot the Bhutanese landscape—ranging from the fortress-like dzongs to remote high-mountain monasteries and temples. Although monastic life in Bhutan is essentially male, there are some nuns who live in small communities also mainly in the remote countryside.
Monastic communities continue to follow religious academic traditions, which at one time was the only education available. After some years of academic training, some monks take up artistic traditions including dance, music, painting, and tailoring that continue to thrive in the monastic communities throughout the Kingdom.
In addition to keeping Buddhist traditions and teachings alive, Bhutan's religious communities also serve their surrounding communities through ceremonies performed in public places as well as in family homes and associated acts of charity.
