Bhutan’s national flag is divided diagonally into yellow and orange fields with a large white dragon, known as the Druk or Thunder Dragon, stretching across the centre.

What does the Bhutan flag look like?

The upper hoist portion is yellow and the lower fly portion orange. A white dragon faces the fly and holds jewels in its claws.

What do the symbols mean?

Yellow represents the authority and tradition of the Druk Gyalpo, Bhutan’s king. Orange represents the country’s Buddhist spiritual tradition. The white dragon symbolises purity and the Tibetan name for Bhutan, Druk Yul, meaning “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” The jewels represent national wealth and security.

History of the flag

Bhutan’s modern flag developed in the mid-twentieth century and was refined as the country increased its international contacts. Its proportions and dragon design were standardised in the 1960s.

Bhutan flag facts

• Colors: yellow, orange and white
• National symbol: Druk, the Thunder Dragon
• Division: diagonal
• Dragon holds: jewels