A series of cultural and sporting events is taking place across the Himalayan kingdom.

In the capital, Thimpu, an archery tournament is being staged, along with traditional music and dancing.

A BBC correspondent in Thimpu says the celebrations come as the King is about to introduce further reforms aimed at modernising the country, including a timetable for Bhutan to become a constitutional instead of an absolute monarchy.

He gave up some of his powers as absolute monarch in 1998 and now rules in conjunction with government and a royal advisory council.

Our correspondent says King Jigme Singye Wangchuck's efforts to mingle with his people, and policies to conserve Bhutan's environment and culture, have made him a popular figure.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service