Thimphu is set to host one of the largest spiritual gatherings in recent memory, as the Global Peace Prayer Festival (GPPF) takes place at Changlimithang from November 4 to 19. The two-week festival aims to bring together Buddhist leaders, practitioners, and peace advocates from around the world in a collective prayer for global harmony and well-being.
A Gathering for Global Harmony
Conceived under the guidance of His Majesty The King, the GPPF draws upon the rich spiritual traditions of Theravada, Sutrayana, and Mantrayana Buddhism. The festival will feature prayers, teachings, rituals, and empowerments that celebrate the shared values of compassion, wisdom, and peace.
Among the central highlights will be the Jabzhi Dhoechog ritual and the Kalachakra initiation, sacred ceremonies symbolizing unity and the turning of the wheel of time toward universal peace. These rituals will be presided over by His Holiness the Je Khenpo and other revered masters from Bhutan and abroad.
Open to All
The event is expected to welcome up to 40,000 participants, with no mandatory registration required. Organizers have emphasized inclusivity, inviting everyone—regardless of background or belief—to join in the prayers and experience Bhutan’s spiritual heritage.
To accommodate the large gathering, the venue at Changlimithang will be equipped with restrooms, medical services, volunteer assistance, and multilingual translation facilities, ensuring that both local and international attendees can fully participate.
Coordinated Effort for a Peaceful Cause
The Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs, the Royal Bhutan Army, and De-suung are key agencies coordinating logistics, safety, and crowd management. The event enjoys strong support from the Royal Government of Bhutan and a network of private sponsors, reflecting a national commitment to fostering peace and unity.
Prayers Beyond Borders
Over the course of the festival, participants will engage in group recitations, ordinations, and teachings by prominent Buddhist figures representing diverse traditions. These sessions are designed to nurture both inner peace and global understanding, echoing Bhutan’s long-standing role as a beacon of spirituality and compassion.
As the world grapples with conflict and division, the Global Peace Prayer Festival offers a timely reminder of the power of faith and collective goodwill. For Bhutan, it is not only a celebration of spiritual heritage but also a heartfelt contribution to the dream of lasting global peace.
