Thai royals to enhance ties with Bhutan in April state visit
King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana will embark on a state visit to Bhutan from April 25 to 28, as announced by the Royal Household Bureau.
The journey follows an invitation from King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan and aims to enhance the friendship and cooperation between Thailand and Bhutan, which are rooted in shared cultural and religious ties, as well as longstanding royal connections.
Upon their arrival at Paro International Airport, the royal couple will be greeted by members of the Bhutanese royal family before proceeding to Thimphu in the afternoon.
A formal welcome ceremony, including a guard of honour, will take place at Tashichho Dzong, attended by King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the Fourth King of Bhutan, and the Queen of Bhutan.
The schedule includes a visit to Tendrelthang, where Their Majesties will witness a parade and cultural performance, with Bhutanese people gathering to offer their respects and warm greetings. The evening will feature a state banquet hosted by the Bhutanese King and Queen at Dechencholing Palace.
The second day will see Their Majesties attending a religious ceremony at Buddha Dordenma, where 74 Thai and 74 Bhutanese monks will chant Buddhist blessings. A meeting with the Fourth King of Bhutan will follow.
In the afternoon, the royal couple will explore development projects and exhibitions, including collaborations between Thailand’s Royal Projects and Bhutan’s initiatives like the One Gewog, One Product (OGOP) scheme. Later, they will meet with the Bhutanese prime minister and his spouse.
On the third day, Their Majesties will visit Lingkana Palace to engage with Bhutanese culture, including displays of woven textiles and garments, before visiting Thimphu’s central market for a volunteer programme exhibition.
Concluding their visit on the final day, Their Majesties will travel to Dungkar Dzong in Paro to pay homage to Shakyamuni Buddha and observe activities at the Royal Institute, which includes an exhibition on the Gelephu Smart City Project, reported Bangkok Post.
Their departure from Don Mueang air force base is scheduled for 7am on Friday, April 25, with a return on April 28 at 7.30pm. This marks the first official overseas state visit during the current reign.
In preparation for the royal visit, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has initiated the Amazing Thailand Festival in Bhutan 2025 campaign, aiming to foster travel interest and promote cultural exchanges.
Latest Thailand News
