penlop

A penlop was a feudal ruler, chief, or governor of a province in Bhutan. Historically, Bhutan's administrative organization was consolidated through the appointment of regional penlops and jungpens (governors of forts). For much of the 19th century, Bhutan experienced civil wars as these territorial governors vied for power. The deb raja, theoretically elected by a council of penlops and jungpens, was often held by the strongest governor, typically the penlop of Paro or Tongsa. The penlops themselves often fought to attain their positions rather than being appointed. In 1907, the strongest penlop, Ugyen Wangchuk of Tongsa, was elected hereditary king of Bhutan.123