Bhutan was meant to celebrate its historic 100 years of monarchy on the 17th of December 2007. The celebration has been postponed to 2008 since the year 2006 – 2007 is considered to be under an inauspicious sign in the Bhutanese lunar calendar.

The history of Bhutan’s founding of hereditary Kingship

The 1st King of Bhutan, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk was crowned at Punakha Dzong on the 17th of December 1907. In 1907 Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk founded the monarchy, a historic assembly of the Clergy, the Official Administration and the people unanimously elected Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk as first hereditary King of Bhutan from 1907 -1925.

He was succeeded by the second King, Jigme Wangchuk, 1925 – 1952     

The 3rd King, Jigme Dorji wangchuk 1952 – 1972 known as the "Father of Modern Bhutan", initiated planned Development and led the country into the Global arena with membership in the United Nations and other International Organizations.

The 4th King, Jigme Singye Wangchuk reigned from 1972 –2008. In the year 2008, His Majesty will hand over his power to the crown prince HRH Jigme Gaser Namgyal Wangchuk, who will be the 5th hereditary King of Bhutan in the year 2008 coinciding with the celebration of hundred years of Monarchy in Bhutan.
 
In 2008, Bhutan will celebrate 101 years of Monarchy. Every Bhutanese will wholeheartedly embrace the event as a gesture of their gratitude to a leader that has shaped and carried Bhutan to its present glory.

Those tourists who travel to Bhutan during this year will witness the activities running throughout the year and will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the small Himalayan Kingdom as a nation in jubilation and in annual celebration.