Bhutan flag

Bhutan

Kingdom of Bhutan

Capital

Thimphu

Region

Asia

Population

784,043

Area (km²)

38,394

💡Quick Summary

Bhutan, a landlocked Himalayan kingdom in South Asia, is renowned for prioritizing Gross National Happiness over GDP, fostering a unique blend of environmental conservation and cultural preservation. With a population of about 784,043 spread across 38,394 km², its capital Thimphu serves as the cultural and political hub, surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes and ancient monasteries. Though GDP data is unavailable here, the nation thrives on hydropower exports and sustainable tourism, maintaining one of the world's lowest carbon footprints.

Key Insights

High GDP Growth Despite Modest GDP Per Capita

Bhutan demonstrates a robust economic growth rate, which is a positive indicator for a developing nation. This growth suggests ongoing economic development and potential for improvement in living standards, even with a GDP per capita that is moderate by global standards.

Remarkable Access to Electricity: A Development Success

Bhutan has achieved universal access to electricity, a significant accomplishment for a mountainous, landlocked country. This high electrification rate is crucial for economic development, education, and quality of life, highlighting successful infrastructure development.

Exceptional Forest Cover: A Commitment to Environmental Preservation

Bhutan maintains an impressive forest cover percentage, far exceeding many global averages. This reflects the country's constitutional mandate to maintain at least 60% forest cover and its strong commitment to environmental conservation and carbon neutrality.

Low Fertility Rate: Demographic Transition Nearing Completion

Bhutan's fertility rate is significantly below the replacement level, indicating a rapidly aging population and potential future demographic challenges. This low rate is often associated with higher education and economic development, but also implies a shrinking workforce in the long term.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$3.01B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$3,831.33

GDP Growth (%)

4.63%

Inflation (%)

4.23%

Unemployment (%)

3.13%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 1/23/2026

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-12.00%-6.00%0.00%6.00%12.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230200,000400,000600,000800,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%25.0%50.0%75.0%100.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$1,000$2,000$3,000$4,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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