Sports in Bhutan

Bhutanese people participate in a range of traditional sports. Some of these sports put your aim and talents to the test, while others are just about physical power. Bhutanese culture is integral to their identity, and traditional sports are an indisputable part of their rich culture. 

We may think of popular Bhutanese traditional sports like archery and khuru when we consider traditional Bhutanese sports. There are, however, some games that are less well-known. 

Traditional sports

There are many traditional sports, but archery is the most popular traditional Bhutanese sport. 

Archery 

Archery is mentioned frequently in Bhutanese folklore. Legend has it that Jigme Naygyal fought the British during the Duar War in the 19th century. He shot an arrow from the hill after praying to a Bhutanese guardian deity. The arrow sped through the air and struck the British general’s forehead as it flew off the mountain. The general died on the spot. 

Archery ranges may now be found around the country, including in little settlements. The archery sites in Thimphu & Paro are bustling with activity every weekend. However, not everyone participates in archery. Many also come to observe and cheer for their favourite archers. Archery in Bhutan is more than just a sport. It’s also a sign of celebration. 

Sok Som

Sok Som is similar to the javelin throw sport. Soksom was popular among cow herders in the past. While their cows grazed, the cow herders spent the time tossing spears. The goal of sok som, however, unlike the Olympic javelin event, is to hit targets at the side of the range, not to cover the greatest distance. 

Khuru 

Khuru (darts) is a popular sport in Bhutan, similar to archery. Playing khuru needs a high level of attention as well as a strong arm. Despite the fact that khuru is now entirely for entertainment, some believe it was previously intended to train troops to protect the nation against invaders. 

Teams of eight to twelve people toss a huge dart at a target around 20 metres away. The player earns 1 point for their team each time he hits the target. Other players, wearing huge white cuffs across their wrists, place themself near the target, ostensibly to direct the gamers by pointing at the target’s location. Whenever anyone hits a target, it is followed by dancing and singing, similar to archery. 

International sports

International sports include games like futsal, football, cricket, basketball and many more. 

Futsal

Futsal is a type of indoor soccer game. It’s a five-on-five sport played on a smaller pitch (about the size of a basketball court) with a smaller ball. The game is played on a level indoor pitch with goals that are 2 metres high by 3 metres wide (6.5’x10′) and a size four ball with a reduced bounce. 

In this game, ball control and quick decision-making are crucial. On an indoor court, futsal is normally played with a smaller, low-bouncing ball because players are constantly rushing on and off the court. Unlimited substitutions are permitted in the game. 

There are numerous hard floor football pitches in Bhutan. If adequate line markings and goalposts are erected, we may use these current facilities to upscale this game to the masses. 90% of the area schools do not have a futsal field for practice or competition, but they have a basketball court, which is also perfect for the pupils to play futsal. 

Basketball

Basketball is a high-intensity sport and a big game in Bhutan, particularly among the younger generation. Bhutanese compete in regional competitions in this sport, which is second only to football. Bhutanese basketball players are well-known in the country. There are always a lot of capable athletes in the country.

Conclusion

Bhutanese people participate in a range of traditional sports. Bhutanese culture is integral to their identity, and traditional sports are an indisputable part of their rich culture. 

There are many traditional sports, but archery is the most popular traditional Bhutanese sport. Some of the other traditional sports are games like khuru, sok som, etc. International sports include games like futsal, football, cricket, basketball and many more.