Bhutan's Neighbors: China (North) and India (East, South, West)

Landlocked Between Two Giants

Bhutan shares 1,139 km of land borders with only two countries:

• North: Tibet Autonomous Region of China (470 km). Disputed areas: Doklam, Jakarlung, Pasamlung, Charithang (total ~764 km²).
• East, South, West: India (659 km). States: Arunachal Pradesh (E), Assam (S), West Bengal (S), Sikkim (W).

Strategic Implications

• No sea access; all trade transits India.
• India provides defense guarantee (1949/2007 treaties), trains Royal Bhutan Army.
• China-Bhutan boundary talks ongoing (24 rounds since 1984); no diplomatic relations.
• Siliguri Corridor ("Chicken's Neck") – 22 km wide Indian strip separating Bhutan from Nepal/Bangladesh.

Unique Position

Only country bordering both China and India without direct diplomatic ties to China. Balances via "Middle Path" diplomacy, GNH, and careful engagement.