National Flag:
The rectangular national flag is diagonally divided into two parts with a white dragon on the divide. The upper half is yellow and the lower orange. The upper half signifies the secular power and authority of the king and the lower half represents the practice of religion and power of Buddhism. The white dragon signifies the name of the country. The jewels in its claws stand for the wealth and perfection of the country.
National Language:
Over 19 languages and dialects are spoken all over the country which makes Bhutan a multi-lingual society. Dzongkha was introduced as the national language of Bhutan. The language was used by the people working in the Dzongs (fortress). The dzongs were the seats of temporal and spiritual leaders.
National Day:
17th December is marked as the National Day of Bhutan. On this day Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck was crowned as the first king of Bhutan, in Punakha Dzong in 1907. He was elected unanimously by the people of Bhutan for restoring peace and order when he was the Trongsa Penlop
National flower:
Blue Poppy (Meconopsis horridula) found on the rocky mountain terrain above the treeline (3500-4500) is the national flower of Bhutan. It is delicate blue or purple tinged blooms with a white filament. It grows to a height of 1 meter. The flower which is linked with the myth of a yeti was discovered by a British Botanist in 1933 in a remote part of Sakteng.
The national tree:
Big cypresses (Cupressus torulosa) found near religious structures in the temperate zone, between 1,800 and 3,500 meters are the National Tree of Bhutan. Cypress, is associated with religion believes.
The national bird:
Raven is the national bird of Bhutan. Raven which represents the chief guardian deity of Bhutan Gonpo Jarodongchen (raven headed Mahakala) also ornaments the royal crown.
The national animal:
Takin (budorcas taxicolor) is the national animal of Bhutan. Takins have thick neck and short muscular legs. They live in groups and are found above 4000 meters high in the north-western and far north eastern parts of the country. They feed on bamboo and weigh about 250 kilograms. This very rare animal is associated with religious history and mythology.
National Games:
Archery is the national game of Bhutan. It is played between two teams wearing traditional dress. Each team member shoots a pair of arrows at a small wooded target placed 140 meters away. It is the most popular game played in Bhutan.