The Wangchuck dynasty is among the most colourful in the history of modern Asia.
The first king, Ugyen Wangchuck, was a masterful warrior-diplomat who was able to crush constant clan warfare and woo the British overlords in neighbouring India. London approved his proclamation of a kingdom in 1907.
When the British withdrew 40 years later, India replaced it as Bhutan’s protector. That role continues today: India is Bhutan’s biggest investor and customer.
The new king is an unexpecte...