Traditional Sports

The national sport of archery is much beloved in Bhutan. The bow and arrow were originally used as weapons of defense during ancient wars but are now played recreationally during festivals and special occasions.

The traditional archery bow is made of hard dried bamboo. This is a social game where the players try to hit the target while the opposing team sings and dances around the target. The women sing bawdy songs to try and deter the opponent’s aim.

Besides archery, games like khuru (darts) are popular among men during the New Year celebration. Fathers, uncles and brothers play archery while the women traditionally prepare food and brew alcohol.

As Bhutan gradually develops, young people are interested in sports like football, basketball and golf. Traditional games are now seen more in rural communities but are being revived to preserve the nation's rich cultural heritage.

Archery

In Bhutanese archery, there will be two teams of archers shooting at a target that is about 145 meters away. When the archer hits the target, dancing and singing are part of the celebration. Although it may be seen as a safety concern the archers drink plenty of beer and local wine, claiming that alcohol gives them greater aim.

Khuru

In this traditional sport, there will be teams of 8 to 12. They throw large darts at a target which will be 20 meters away. Players sing, dance and make merry.

Soksom is similar to the sport of javelin but here the player has to hit the target at the end of the range. It was mainly popular among the cow herders in the olden days. They would play with other herders while their cows grazed.

Degor

This sport has two teams of six. Players take turns throwing flat stones at a wooden target, stuck in the ground. They get a score when the rock is close to or hits the target.

Pungdo

This is the Bhutanese version of shot-put. Players throw flat stones from shoulder level.

Jigdum

Players throw a sharp end wood that is 1 feet long at the target. Two types of jigdum are used, one long wood and a two pronged wood.

Keshey

This sport is the Bhutanese version of wrestling where two opponents hold each other from the waist to toss their opponents onto the ground.

Sheray Paray

Two people take turns holding each other's wrist with one person trying to break free from the other.

Langthab

Langthab literally translates to bullfight. This traditional sport requires a strong head where both the players try to head-butt each other into submission.