League: Olympics Sport: Olympics Country: Global Category: Scores & Results

Bhutan's traditional archery faces challenges from urban development

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 3:17 AM

Last updated Sep 18, 2026

Bhutan's traditional archery faces challenges from urban development

Summary

Traditional archery in Bhutan, the national sport, is undergoing challenges as urban development encroaches on available ranges. An archery tournament took place near Thimphu, where players expressed concerns about the shrinking space for their sport, essential for maintaining cultural practices. Bhutan's archery association noted rising safety concerns due to the use of more powerful compound bows in densely populated areas. Efforts are underway to secure new archery range sites through collaboration with various sports associations. Players emphasize the need for government support to sustain the sport's legacy amid changing preferences for modern sports.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Traditional archery requires flat terrain, which is becoming scarce in Thimphu.
•Archers expressed concerns during an all-day tournament about lack of play spaces.
•The sport is losing popularity to alternatives like football, affecting participation.
•Archery association focuses on safety measures for modern powerful bows.
•Initiatives are being taken to establish new ranges in safer locations.

Latest Updates

3:17 AMYahoo Sports — Bhutan's traditional archers lose ground to development

What they're saying

"
Atop a steep hillside near Bhutan's capital Thimphu, an arrow slices through the air and slams into a wooden target with a thud, prompting a round of celebratory song.A hit anywhere on the target earns points, along with an obligatory celebratory song and shuffling dance.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Olympics Olympics