Wangchuck

The Wangchuck dynasty, also spelled Wangchuk, is the royal house that has ruled Bhutan as a hereditary monarchy since the early 20th century. It was founded by Ugyen Wangchuck, who in 1907 became the first Druk Gyalpo, or Dragon King, and established the modern Bhutanese state.

Under the Wangchuck dynasty, Bhutan moved from a feudal system of semi-autonomous districts toward a centralized form of governance. The monarchy has long served as a unifying national institution and continues to play a central role in the country’s political and cultural life.

The 2nd Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Wangchuck (reigned 1929–1952), expanded centralized governance and established formal relations with foreign powers, laying foundations for Bhutan’s modern state.

The 3rd Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (reigned 1952–1972), accelerated modernization, opened Bhutan to international contact, and began laying groundwork for a more participatory government.

The 4th Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck (reigned 1972–2006), continued modernization and economic planning, and introduced the concept of Gross National Happiness as a guiding policy, while initiating steps toward constitutional reform.

The 5th Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, has reigned since 2006 and oversaw Bhutan’s transition to a constitutional monarchy under the 2008 constitution, with a democratically elected parliament and a broader role for civil institutions.

The Wangchuck name, transliterated as Wangchuk in some sources, remains associated with Bhutan’s monarchy, diplomacy, and national identity. The dynasty continues to influence the country’s governance, culture, and international relations.