Bhutan history spans over 1500 years — from early Buddhism, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Wangchuck dynasty, to modern Kingdom of Bhutan.
Introduction of Buddhism
Buddhism arrived in Bhutan early. Guru Padmasambhava came in the 8th century.
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal (1594-1651)
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal unified Bhutan. Established dual system of government — civil and religious.
Wangchuck Dynasty (1907-today)
Ugyen Wangchuck proclaimed first King of Bhutan 1907. Wangchuck dynasty rules to this day.
External Affairs Treaty (1949-1971)
Treaty between India and Bhutan 1949 — India guided Bhutan foreign affairs. Bhutan joined UN 1971.
Internal Reforms (1961-1985)
King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1952-1972) began modernization reforms. King Jigme Singye Wangchuck (1972-2006) introduced Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy 1972.
Democratic Transition (2008)
King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (2006-) introduced democratic constitution 2008. Constitution adopted.
Modern Bhutan (2018-today)
800,000 inhabitants. Bhutan is the world only carbon-negative country. Gross National Happiness main policy. Limit on tourism to 200,000 visitors.