Bhutan’s national sport runs out of room to fire an arrow

Thimphu, September 19 - In a steep hillside near Bhutan's capital Thimphu, an arrow pierces a wooden target, eliciting a chorus of jubilant song. Traditional archery, Bhutan's national sport, boasts a rich history, yet some enthusiasts worry about its diminishing presence due to development and safety concerns. Played with a bamboo bow and arrows, the sport evolved from hunting and military customs and is now an integral part of cultural events and a favored weekend pastime.

However, the growing demand for space and flat terrain, especially in the capital, poses challenges for archery ranges. Sonam Dorji, an archer and conservation worker, expressed concern about the encroachment of residences onto archery grounds. In an all-day tournament, archers compete in teams of varying sizes, aiming at small targets up to 145 meters away, with the first team to score 25 points emerging victorious.

The sport, characterized by its raucous atmosphere, often fueled by beer or the local drink ara, involves teammates shouting guidance and encouragement as they take turns. Despite efforts to address declining range availability and safety issues, traditional archery continues to face competition from popular alternatives like football, with young people increasingly preferring modern sports.