NATIONAL SYMBOL OF BHUTAN EP 5: NATIONAL FLOWER

Greetings Travellers,

I am Kinga & this blog is about the national flower of Bhutan. 

Bhutan's national flower is the Blue Poppy (Meconopsis grandis), a rare and exquisite bloom found primarily in the high altitudes of the Eastern Himalayas. This enchanting flower was declared Bhutan's national symbol in 1985 and is celebrated for its delicate, cup-shaped petals that range in color from a deep, vibrant blue to soft lavender. The Blue Poppy's allure lies not just in its stunning appearance but also in its rarity and the challenging environment it thrives in, growing at altitudes between 3,500 to 4,500 meters.

The Blue Poppy holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in Bhutan. It is often associated with the mystical and the divine, symbolizing purity and inner strength. The flower's resilience in harsh, high-altitude conditions is seen as a metaphor for the Bhutanese people's ability to maintain their rich cultural heritage and identity despite external influences. The Blue Poppy is also linked to the legend of Guru Rinpoche, a revered figure in Bhutanese Buddhism, who is believed to have meditated in the regions where this flower grows.

As a visitor to Bhutan, you won't be able to see this flowers on most tours you undertake. However if you're trekking up north, then the likelihood of seeing one is higher. 

Pic courtesy: vast bhutan

WELCOME TO BHUTAN!