Culture of Bhutan is very unique. For a long period of time, Bhutan remained isolated, from the outer world, which has helped it preserve its unique cultural heritage. Tourists were allowed only towards the end of the 20th century and that too, in limited numbers.
The language and culture of Bhutan share a close resemblance to that of Tibet. Dzongkha and Sharchop, the main Bhutanese languages are similar to Tibetan, and physically too, Bhutanese are identical to Tibetans. One of the main symbols of Bhutanese culture is their national dress, known as Driglam Namzha, which is to be worn in public during day hours. Men wear a heavy knee-length robe tied with a belt, called a Gho, folded in such a way to form a pocket in front of the stomach. Women wear colorful blouses over which they fold and clasp a large rectangular cloth called a Kerak, thereby creating an ankle-length dress. A short silk jacket or toe go may be worn over the Kerak. In Bhutan arranged marriages are still popular. Most colorful festivals in Bhutan is the Tsechu Festivals, which is performed in many monasteries and temples. Mask dance, large scroll paintings of deities, usually mark the celebration, attended by people from all walks of life.
