regional dominance. Within this political landscape, the Wangchuck family originated in the Bumthang region of central Bhutan. The family belongs to the Nyö clan, and is descended from Pema Lingpa, a Bhutanese Nyingmapa saint. The Nyö clan emerged as a local aristocracy, supplanting many older aristocratic families of Tibetan origin that sided with Tibet during invasions of Bhutan. In doing so, the clan came to occupy the hereditary position of Penlop of Trongsa, as well as significant national and local government positions. The Penlop of Trongsa controlled central and Bhutan; the rival Penlop of Paro controlled western Bhutan; and dzongpons controlled areas surrounding their respective dzongs. Eastern dzongpens were generally under the control of the Penlop of Trongsa, who was officially endowed with the power to appoint them in 1853. The Penlop of Paro, unlike Trongsa, was an office appointed by the Druk Desi's central government. Because western regions controlled by the Penlop of Paro contained lucrative trade routes, it became the object of competition among aristocratic families. Punakha Dzongpens Below are the Dzongpens of Punakha, also called "Punab." Thimphu Dzongpens Below are the Dzongpens of Thimphu, also called "Thimphub." Wangdue Dzongpens Below are the Dzongpens of Wangdue Phodrang, also called "Wangzob." See also Penlop Penlop of Trongsa House of Wangchuck History of Bhutan References Bhutanese monarchy