Lucky Charms of Bhutan

Bhutan is the last surviving Vajrayana Buddhist kingdom and its charm culture is among the most intact in the world. Prayer flags fly from every high place; prayer wheels are built into the walls of temples and homes. The phallus — the symbol of the divine madman Drukpa Kunley — is painted on houses across Bhutan as a powerful ward against evil and envy, a sight that surprises most foreign visitors.

The dragon (Druk) is the national symbol, associated with thunder and sovereignty. Dzi beads from the Himalayan plateau are heirlooms of incalculable worth. Every dzong (fortress monastery) and home displays the eight auspicious symbols of Tibetan Buddhism: the eternal knot, lotus, dharma wheel, parasol, treasure vase, golden fish pair, victory banner, and conch shell.