Bhutan’s Reverence for “This” Makes Women Blush

Tibetan Buddhism is the state religion of Bhutan, where everything is inseparable from religion. The people of Bhutan always wear traditional attire, with their vibrant and eye-catching robes. (Photo by Da Zhi Images)

Modern civilization arrived here nearly half a century later than in other Asian countries. Nestled in the southern foothills of the Himalayas, the small nation of Bhutan was the last country in the world to introduce television and the internet. With minimal “pollution” from civilization, Bhutan has not sacrificed its natural environment for economic development. Its picturesque seasonal landscapes are mesmerizing, earning it the reputation as the last pure land on Earth. Some even say that this title is truly well-deserved by Bhutan alone.

Traveling to Bhutan is not all that “easy.” The country only began opening its doors to tourism in 1974 and generally only accepts group tourists, with very strict control over visitor numbers. Visitors here are not allowed to smoke or use plastic bags. Although there are many restrictions, they have helped preserve Bhutan’s pristine beauty: unspoiled forests against a clear blue sky, colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, vibrantly painted buildings, sacred and solemn temples clinging to cliffs, and vast expanses of jacaranda trees surrounding dzongs in spring—all authentically preserved, allowing you to fully enjoy the slow pace of life.

Tiger’s Nest Monastery, acclaimed as one of the world’s top ten super temples, is built on a cliff and combines breathtaking scenery with exquisite artistry. (Photo by Da Zhi Images)

When visiting Bhutan and admiring the colorful painted architecture, you might notice that the exterior walls of these homes are adorned with vivid depictions of the male genitalia—some even painted like door gods on either side of entrances. Inside the houses, phallic-shaped carvings can be seen everywhere, and even solemn temples display genital-shaped artifacts, leaving a deep impression.

Bhutan holds a profound reverence for the phallus, with such totems visible everywhere on the exteriors of houses. (Photo by Da Zhi Images)

The origin of Bhutan’s enthusiasm for phallic worship is quite unique. Legend has it that a Tibetan lama named Drukpa Kuenley defeated local demons using his extraordinarily powerful phallus. As a result, such totems came to symbolize the warding off of evil—much like the custom of hanging a bagua mirror above one’s doorway. In Bhutan, drawings and wooden carvings in the shape of the phallus serve as symbols of protection for safe travels. However, female tourists visiting the region might find themselves blushing at the sight.