Department of Culture

The Department of Culture is a cornerstone of Bhutanese cultural heritage. Stepping into the building you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere. Here’s where the history of Bhutan unfolds. The Department of Culture was established in 1985. Previously known as the Special Commission for Cultural Affairs (SCCA), it had a crucial mandate: to preserve and promote Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. Bhutan, with its Gross National Happiness philosophy, considers culture to be essential. Since then, the department has gone through various transformations, becoming the National Commission for Cultural Affairs (NCCA) before finally settling into its current form as the Department of Culture. Today, this department is dedicated to protecting and promoting the tangible and intangible cultural heritage. They support the continuity of cultural expressions and ensure sustainable development of cultural resources. Their mission is to integrate cultural heritage into all aspects of national development. They also promote research in culture. So, the Department of Culture stands as a vital guardian of Bhutan’s rich legacy, ensuring that its cultural treasures are passed down to future generations.