Scouting in Bhutan began in the 1970s, gaining formal structure in 1996 after a Royal Command from His Majesty The Fourth King. On 26 July 1999, the Bhutan Scouts Association (Druk Scout Tshogpa) became a full member of the World Organization of the Scout Movement (WOSM) at the 35th World Scout Conference in Durban, South Africa. Since then, under the patronage of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, Scouting has grown into one of Bhutan’s most impactful youth development programs.
Scouting in Bhutan is more than outdoor adventure—it is a platform for character building, leadership training, and community service. Today, the Bhutan Scouts Association reaches 92% of students nationwide, organized into five levels:
- Cheychey Scout: Pre‑primary to Grade III
- Nachung Scout: Grades IV to VI
- Nazhoen Scout: Grades VII to XII
- Rovers: Colleges and vocational training institutions
Through camping trips, service projects, and national events like the Scout Jamboree, Scouts learn resilience, teamwork, and a deep respect for nature. These experiences foster lifelong friendships and strengthen unity across Bhutan.
His Majesty The King places equal importance on Scouting, recognizing its role in shaping future leaders. A notable example was on 12 January 2018, when His Majesty granted an audience to participants of the 9th Scout Leadership Training Programme at Tencholing, Wangdue Phodrang—an inspiring moment that highlighted the national significance of Scouting.
Aligned with Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness, Scouting nurtures compassion, self‑discipline, and environmental stewardship. Scouts emerge as responsible citizens, ready to serve their communities and lead with kindness, inclusivity, and pride.
