THE ROYAL FAMILY
Members
THE ROYAL FAMILY
The Royal Family represents a timeless legacy of unity, tradition, and cultural pride. Rooted in centuries of heritage, their story reflects dedication to their people and preservation of customs. Each generation carries forward values of integrity, leadership, and service, strengthening the bond between the throne and the nation through responsibility, compassion, and honor.
Guided by commitment and dignity, the Royal Family supports charitable causes, encourages education, and promotes national unity. Their presence inspires respect and continuity, reflecting a graceful balance between tradition and progress for future generations.
The Queen
QUEEN JETSUN PEMA
Queen Jetsun Pema was born on 4 June 1990 into a noble family. Her parents are Dhondup Gyaltshen and Sonam Choki, and she has four siblings.
Her brother, Thinley Norbu, is married to the King’s half-sister, Princess Euphelma Choden Wangchuck and her sister, Yeatso Lhamo, is married to the King’s brother, Prince Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Jetsun Pema was educated in Bhutan, India and the UK. As such, she speaks her native Dzongkha, plus Hindi and English. She married King Jigme Khesar on 13 October 2011 and they have three children: Crown Prince Jigme Namgyel, Prince Ugyen Wangchuck and Princess Sonam Yangden. Jetsun Pema became the Queen of Bhutan upon marriage and is beloved in the kingdom for her dedication to her role.
Royal Children
PRINCE JIGME NAMGYEL
Crown Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck (known commonly as Jigme Namgyel) was born on 5 February 2016 to the King and Queen. He is the youngest crown prince in the world and is seen regularly at events with his parents in Bhutan and across the globe.
At a young age, he has already undertaken solo engagements in the mountain kingdom. In Bhutan, he is known as the Dragon Prince (or Druk Gyalsey) and is expected to be Bhutan’s sixth Dragon King (Druk Gyalpo).
Royal Children
PRINCE UGYEN WANGCHUCK
Prince Jigme Ugyen Wangchuck (known only as Ugyen Wangchuck) was born on 19 March 2020 as the King and Queen’s second child. He regularly appears alongside his parents at royal events in and outside of Bhutan. He is second in line to the throne.
Extended Royal Family
PRINCESS SONAM YANGDEN
Princess Sonam Yangden Wangchuck was born on 9 September 2023 as the third child and only daughter of King Jigme Khesar and Queen Jetsun Pema. In her short life, she has already joined her parents on a state visit to Bangladesh.
She shares her first name with her paternal aunt, Princess Sonam Dechen and maternal grandmother, Sonam Choki. She shares her second name with her paternal grandmother, Queen Mother Tshering Yangdon. Princess Sonam Yangden is third in the line of succession.
ROYAL TRADITIONS & CEREMONIES
MUSIC AND DANCE
Traditional music and dance express the kingdom’s spiritual devotion and cultural identity. Ceremonial performances, rhythmic instruments, and graceful movements celebrate heritage, storytelling, and royal occasions with vibrant energy and reverence.
MONKS
Monks play a central role in preserving spiritual teachings, guiding ceremonies, and maintaining sacred traditions. Their disciplined lives reflect devotion, wisdom, and commitment to moral values within the royal community.
ARCHITECTURE AND TEMPLE ETIQUETTE
Royal architecture showcases intricate craftsmanship, symbolic designs, and sacred geometry. Temple etiquette emphasizes respect, modesty, and ritual purity, ensuring harmony between visitors, monks, and spiritual traditions.
TEXTILES
Royal textiles feature vibrant colors, detailed embroidery, and symbolic patterns reflecting cultural identity. Handwoven fabrics and ceremonial garments represent artistry, tradition, and status within royal celebrations and daily life.
Gallery
Videos
