Bhutanese culture is vibrant, living, and heavily influenced by Vajrayana Buddhism.
* **Zorig Chusum:** The 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, which include *Lhazo* (painting, particularly Thangkas), *Shingzo* (woodwork), *Thagzo* (weaving), and *Jimzo* (sculpting). The National Institute for Zorig Chusum in Thimphu preserves these skills. * **Textiles:** Weaving is a highly respected art form. The Royal Textile Academy in Thimphu showcases the intricate, brightly colored patterns of traditional garments like the *Gho* (for men) and *Kira* (for women), which are still worn daily. * **Performing Arts:** Masked dances, known as *Cham*, are performed by monks and laymen during religious festivals. These dances depict moral vignettes and the triumphs of Buddhist masters over evil spirits.