Terrain
Mostly mountainous with some fertile valleys and savanna
Climate
Varies; tropical in southern plains; cool winters and hot summers in central valleys; severe winters and cool summers in Himalayas
People
Nationality: Bhutanese (singular and plural)
Population: 733,643 (July 2014 est.)
Languages: Sharchhopka 28%, Dzongkha (official) 24%, Lhotshamkha 22%, other 26%
Religions
Lamaistic Buddhist 75%, Indian-and Nepalese-influenced Hinduism 25%
Economy
Bhutan's economy, small and less developed, is based on agriculture and forestry, which provide the main livelihood for more than 40% 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 and is dependent on India's financial assistance.
Living Conditions
Bhutan was isolated from the outside world until around 1960. As a result, health care services in Bhutan are not very well developed. Leading causes of death include respiratory infections, diarrhea and dysentery, skin infections, infections from parasites, and malaria. Over 10 percent of all babies die shortly after birth. Ninety percent of Bhutan's population live in villages scattered throughout the country.
Government
Constitutional monarchy
US Military Presence/Support