A Historic Royal Visit: The First State Visit of the King of Thailand to Bhutan
Bhutan welcomed Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand for a historic State Visit from 25–28 April 2025. Discover how this landmark occasion strengthened ties between the two kingdoms, highlighted by grand welcomes, sacred ceremonies, and cultural celebrations.
From 25th to 28th April 2025, the Kingdom of Bhutan welcomed Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand for a historic four-day State Visit—the first such visit by a reigning Thai monarch. The occasion marked a new chapter in the enduring friendship and close ties shared by the two kingdoms.
A Grand Royal Welcome (25 April 2025)
In a gesture rich with warmth and tradition, His Majesty King Jigme and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema personally received His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana at Paro International Airport.
Remarkably, His Majesty the King of Thailand landed at Paro Airport aboard the Royal Thai Air Force aircraft, piloted by the King himself, who is a certified military and civilian pilot.
The royal couple were welcomed not only by Bhutan’s King and Queen, but by the entire nation. Schoolchildren lined the roads from Paro, waving flags and offering flowers, while cultural performances celebrated the arrival of the distinguished guests.
Upon their arrival in Thimphu, Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand were formally received at Tashichho Dzong, where a Guard of Honour was presented by the armed forces. The occasion was followed by a special Audience with His Majesty King Jigme and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema.
The day’s celebrations continued at Tendrelthang, where His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo and members of the Royal Family joined a grand welcome ceremony. Here, DeSuups and Gyalsups presented a Guard of Honour, and both Bhutanese and Thai traditional dances were performed. Hundreds of dignitaries, students, and Thai nationals living in Bhutan attended the event, underscoring the significance of this royal visit.
Prayers and Sacred Relics (26 April 2025)
On the second day, the royal families of Bhutan and Thailand gathered at Kuenselphodrang for a special prayer ceremony at the iconic Buddha Dordenma. Thousands of Bhutanese turned out to receive the Tshepamey and Tandin Wang, blessings conferred by His Holiness the Je Khenpo. Sacred relics—including a relic of Lord Buddha presented by His Majesty the King of Thailand to Bhutan—were placed on public display for blessings, alongside four precious relics from Bhutan.
In a moving display of spiritual unity, 74 monks from each kingdom jointly offered prayers, and a thousand butter lamps were lit to wish for the long life and wellbeing of Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand.
Later in the day, Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand, accompanied by Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, visited Dechenchholing to view an exhibition of collaborative Royal Projects. These initiatives—ranging from dog population management to golden mahseer conservation, sturgeon farming, and the OGOP (One Gewog, One Product) programme—reflect the strong partnership between Bhutan and Thailand. OGOP, inspired by Thailand’s “One Tambon, One Product” initiative, has flourished under the support of the Thailand International Cooperation Agency and the Queen’s Project.
A Celebration of Culture and Craftsmanship (27 April 2025)
The third day of the State Visit saw Their Majesties host the King and Queen of Thailand at Lingkana Palace. Traditional Bhutanese games—including archery, khuru, and soksoma—were held, allowing the royal guests to experience the vibrancy of Bhutanese culture first-hand. An exhibition of local crafts, artwork, and products offered further insight into the country’s rich traditions and contemporary creativity.
In the afternoon, the King and Queen of Thailand were warmly received at Kaja Throm by Their Royal Highnesses Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, Prince Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, and Prince Ugyen Jigme Wangchuck. The event featured performances and skill demonstrations by De-suups from the De-suung Skilling Programme, showcasing the talents of Bhutan’s youth.
Heartwarming Farewell (28 April)
Their Majesties also took the opportunity to explore the Kaja Throm market, sampling local produce and viewing handmade goods from farmers and artisans, highlighting Bhutan’s thriving craft and agricultural sectors.
The farewell on 28 April was a fitting conclusion to a visit filled with cultural exchange, spiritual resonance, and heartfelt connections. At Dungkar Dzong, Their Majesties shared a moment of quiet reflection and camaraderie amid Bhutan’s sacred and historic setting, symbolising the spiritual kinship that ties the two nations. As Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand made their way to Paro, the route was once again lined with Bhutanese well-wishers—children, monks, and locals—offering flowers, smiles, and prayers.
The departure ceremony at Paro International Airport, where King Jigme and Queen Jetsun personally bid farewell, encapsulated the warmth and respect that defined the entire visit. The echoes of this historic occasion will undoubtedly inspire deeper collaboration and enduring friendship between the people of Bhutan and Thailand for years to come.
A Visit Marking History and Friendship
The first State Visit of the King and Queen of Thailand to Bhutan is a significant milestone in the relationship between the two nations. With shared spiritual values, a commitment to sustainable development, and a history of cooperation, this visit not only reaffirmed the bonds of friendship but also opened new avenues for collaboration and cultural exchange.
As Bhutan and Thailand look towards a future of continued friendship, the 2025 State Visit stands as a testament to the enduring ties and mutual respect between these two unique kingdoms.
Thai Festival in Bhutan
On 19 April, Bhutan hosted a vibrant Thai Festival, bringing a taste of Thailand’s rich culture and traditions to the heart of the Himalayas. The event featured colourful cultural performances, Thai cuisine, and handicraft displays, allowing Bhutanese locals and visitors to experience the warmth and hospitality of Thailand. Organised in partnership with the Royal Thai Embassy, the festival further strengthened the bonds of friendship and cultural exchange between Bhutan and Thailand, setting a joyful prelude to the historic State Visit by Their Majesties the King and Queen of Thailand.
How to travel to Bhutan from Bangkok, Thailand
Travelling to Bhutan from Thailand is convenient and straightforward, with direct flights available from Bangkok to Paro International Airport—Bhutan’s sole international gateway. Bhutan's national carrier, Drukair, Royal Bhutan Airlines operate regular daily flights connecting the two countries, making it easy for Thai travellers to embark on a journey to the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
The flight offers spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas, setting the stage for an unforgettable Bhutanese adventure as soon as you board. Thai citizens require a visa to visit Bhutan, which can be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
