Bhutan

The national study tour conducted each year for the students of Faculty of Architecture from Sarvajanik College of Engineering and Technology takes the second and third year students of architecture to study various housing and institution typology across the country. This year, the venture was taken a step further where forty students total from B.Arch 2 and 3 who were taken to Bhutan to study their unique typology in the same sectors. To keep the ancient architectural essence of Bhutan intact the government has stipulated a detailed guideline which are to be followed for all present and future architectural endeavors. These guidelines define the roofing pattern, windows and doors which were traditionally built. This unity in design and construction gives Bhutan a unique cultural identity amidst the scenic landscapes. The country has a long history with Tibet as well its large influence from Buddhism. Buddhism is inscribed into the very landscape of Bhutan – fluttering prayer flags, gleaming white chortens and portraits of Buddhist saints carved into the rock dot the countryside. If one wants to understand Bhutan, it is essential to have a basic understanding of Buddhism. In essence, everything from festival dances and monastery art to government policy serves the same purpose in Bhutan: to encapsulate and promulgate basic Buddhist teachings.Thus, the main architectural style of the buildings here are of Tibetan-Buddhist style.