December 18, 2025
As Bhutan joyfully celebrated its 118th National Day, the Bhutan Foundation was deeply honored to stand with the people of Bumthang in the sacred presence of His Majesty The King, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, and Their Royal Highnesses the Gyalseys and the Gyalsem. Joining the nation on this historic occasion was both a profound privilege and a moment of deep reflection on the enduring values that continue to guide Bhutan across generations.
This year’s National Day celebrations were held on the sacred grounds of Wangduechhoeling Palace—an extraordinary site of national significance through whose doors all of Bhutan’s Kings have once walked. To witness the Palace once again come alive, welcoming His Majesty The Druk Gyalpo, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Their Royal Highnesses the Gyalseys and the Gyalsem, and members of the Royal Family, was a moment of immense honor.
Over the past decade, the Bhutan Foundation has worked in close collaboration with the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development and other valued partners to restore Wangduechhoeling Palace with dedication and care. Seeing this historic landmark serve once again as a living space for national celebration reaffirmed the shared commitment to preserving Bhutan’s cultural heritage for future generations.
On this most auspicious occasion, we were especially proud to witness His Majesty The King confer the National Order of Merit (Gold) upon the families of our Co-Chair, Mrs. Lucy Goelet, and our Board Member, Mrs. Daphne Hoch Cunningham. This distinguished honor recognizes their families’ longstanding friendship, dedication, and service to Bhutan. Their deep bond with the country spans generations, reflecting a relationship rooted in trust, respect, and shared values that dates back to the 1970s.
These honors are a source of immense pride for the Bhutan Foundation and stand as a testament to the enduring relationships that underpin our work and our partnership with Bhutan.
On this sacred National Day, we offered our heartfelt prayers for the long life and well-being of His Majesty The King, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Their Royal Highnesses the Gyalseys and the Gyalsem, and the entire Royal Family. May Bhutan continue to be blessed with peace, stability, and lasting prosperity.