Bhutan’s National Flag Explained: Colours, Symbols and Their Meaning

Bhutan’s national flag is far more than just a colourful piece of cloth fluttering above dzongs and mountain passes — it is a proud emblem of the country’s identity, culture, spirituality, and unity. Every element on the flag carries a deeper message, reflecting Bhutan’s unique blend of monarchy and Buddhism.

What does the Bhutanese flag look like?

• It is divided diagonally from the lower hoist side to the upper fly side

• The upper part is yellow, symbolising the king’s secular authority and the unity of the nation

• The lower part is orange, standing for the spiritual traditions of Buddhism, especially the Drukpa Kagyu and Nyingma schools

• A white Druk (Thunder Dragon) is placed across the middle, facing away from the flagpole, symbolising Bhutan’s name “Druk Yul” — Land of the Thunder Dragon — and the country’s drive to move forward

• The dragon clutches four jewels, representing Bhutan’s wealth and the security of its people

• The white colour of the dragon shows purity, loyalty, and the peaceful nature of Bhutanese people

A Brief History of Bhutan’s Flag

• Bhutan’s first known flag designs go back to around the 1940s

• In 1949, after the Indo-Bhutan Friendship Treaty, the flag evolved to reflect Bhutan’s independence and close ties with India

• The modern design, with its current colours and proportions, was finalised under King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in 1969

• The flag’s proportions were standardised to a 3:2 ratio in line with United Nations norms in the early 1970s

• These developments marked Bhutan’s confident step onto the world stage while holding firm to its own culture

The Meaning Behind the Colours

• Yellow: represents the power and authority of the king, showing the role of the monarchy in protecting and guiding Bhutan

• Orange: stands for the spiritual traditions of the country, reflecting the importance of Buddhism in everyday life

• White (the dragon): purity, loyalty, and the noble character of the Bhutanese people

• The combination of these colours perfectly illustrates Bhutan’s balance of secular leadership and spiritual heritage

The Dragon and its Symbols

• The Druk, or Thunder Dragon, is a central figure in Bhutanese culture and myth

• The dragon’s fierce expression represents the strength and courage of the Bhutanese people

• The jewels it holds symbolise Bhutan’s wealth, not just in a material sense, but also in spiritual and cultural richness

• The dragon facing towards the fly end of the flag is a subtle but powerful statement of progress and a future-facing attitude

Cultural and Spiritual Importance

• Bhutan’s flag is a visual summary of what the nation stands for: a harmonious blend of Buddhist faith and a strong monarchy

• It is a familiar sight during national festivals like the Tshechu, royal birthdays, and major cultural events

• Government buildings proudly display the flag, reinforcing both the country’s independence and its commitment to tradition

• For Bhutanese citizens, the flag is a reminder of their responsibilities to preserve their culture, values, and unity

How Should the Flag Be Treated?

• It should never touch the ground

• If flown at night, it must be properly lit

• When it becomes worn or damaged, it should be respectfully disposed of, ideally by ceremonial burning

• These rules protect the dignity of a symbol held in such deep respect

The Flag’s Role in Society

• Beyond its design, the Bhutanese flag is a living expression of national pride

• It unites people at celebrations, reminds them of their heritage, and inspires a shared sense of belonging

• At Tsechus and other gatherings, the flag flies high, reflecting the bond between Bhutan’s past and its hopes for the future

• In a rapidly changing world, it helps anchor the country’s identity

If you ever visit Bhutan, you’ll see that the flag is not merely a banner — it is a living symbol of what makes Bhutan so special: a place where culture, faith, and leadership work together to create happiness and peace.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bhutan's Flag

What are the colours of Bhutan’s national flag?

Yellow and orange, with a white dragon across the centre.

What does the dragon stand for?

Bhutan’s name as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, and the bravery and protection of its people.

Why does the dragon face away from the flagpole?

To symbolise progress and a forward-looking national spirit.

What do the jewels mean?

They represent the nation’s wealth, including spiritual and cultural richness.