Archery (Da) in Bhutan is more than just a sport—it is an integral part of Bhutanese culture, tradition, and history. Defined as “that which is aimed and directed towards a target visualized by the mind and seen by the eye,” archery is deeply connected to the country’s spiritual and warrior heritage.
From Ancient Warfare to a Celebrated Tradition
🛡️ Archery in War – Historically, Bhutanese warriors used bows and arrows to defend the kingdom against Tibetan and British invasions. During the 1864 battle against the British, Bhutanese archers played a crucial role in protecting their land.
🎭 Archery & Religion – One of the most legendary moments in Bhutanese history was the assassination of Tibetan King Langdarma in the 10th century. A Buddhist monk, Lhalung Pelgi Dorji, skillfully shot an arrow during a Black Hat Dance, eliminating the tyrant who had mocked Buddhism.
🖼️ Archery in Bhutanese Art – Ancient paintings and wall carvings across Bhutan depict warriors with bows and arrows, highlighting the sport's deep-rooted cultural and historical significance.
Archery – The National Sport of Bhutan
🏆 Archery was officially declared Bhutan’s national sport in 1971. However, the sport’s popularity began in the 1920s under the leadership of King Jigme Wangchuk, the Second King of Bhutan.
🎯 A National Passion – Today, archery tournaments are held nationwide, with vibrant competitions featuring colorful traditional attire, dance, music, and celebrations. Unlike Olympic archery, Bhutanese archery is played on a much larger field, requiring exceptional precision and skill.
Experience Traditional Archery in Bhutan
📍 Whether you’re a visitor eager to try archery in a local village or interested in watching an intense tournament, Bhutan offers authentic experiences for every traveler.
🌟 Druk Smile Tours can arrange exclusive archery sessions, allowing you to learn from Bhutanese archers and immerse yourself in the country’s most beloved sport.
