National Day in Bhutan Date in the current year: December 17, 2024

The Drugk Gyalpo is the official title of the head of state of Bhutan. It is translated from the Dzongkha language as “Dragon King”. Modern Bhutanese monarchy was established in 1907 by the Wangchuck family. Ugyen Wangchuck reunified the country and was unanimously chosen as the hereditary monarch of Bhutan. His coronation took place on December 17, 1907.

Ugyen Wangchuck founded the House of Wangchuck that has ruled Bhutan since its reunification. Once an isolated country, the Kingdom of Bhutan is now on its path toward decentralization, democratization and sustainable development.

The National Day of Bhutan was established to honor Ugyen Wangchuck and his contributions to the development of the country. It is observed throughout Bhutan, but the main celebrations are held at Changlimithang Stadium in the capital city of Thimphu. They include a public address by the incumbent Druk Gyalpo and a procession. During the procession, a statue of Ugyen Wangchuck is carried to honor the first Dragon King of Bhutan and the independent Bhutanese nation.