In a momentous development underscoring Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural aspirations, eight spiritual projects under the Gelephu Mindfulness City Administration (GMCA) were formally granted Royal Kashos on May 12, 2025. The auspicious occasion coincided with the 15th Day of the 3rd Month of the Wood Female Snake Year in the traditional Bhutanese calendar.
In a solemn ceremony held at Simtokha Dzong, the sacred Royal Edicts were handed over by Gyalpoi Zimpon Dasho Ugyen Namgyel, representing His Majesty The King. These Royal Kashos signify formal approval and ceremonial recognition of the spiritual initiatives that will serve as the cornerstone of Gelephu Mindfulness City — envisioned as a global destination for mindfulness and spiritual discovery.
The eight newly endorsed projects are rooted in Bhutan’s profound Vajrayana Buddhist heritage. Together, they form the spiritual spine of the emerging city:
- Gelephu Dzong (Vajrayana Centre): Spearheaded by the Central Monastic Body, this comprehensive centre will preserve and showcase Vajrayana ritual practices and sacred arts.
- Tashi Gomang Chorten: Initiated by Lam Tshering Wangdi under the guidance of His Holiness the Je Khenpo, this stupa draws inspiration from Bodh Gaya’s Dorjidhen Stupa and aims to become a beacon of spiritual significance.
- Barchey Kuensel Chorten: Proposed by Khenpo Karma Wangchuk, the project will feature a central stupa encircled by 108 smaller stupas, symbolizing peace and wellbeing.
- Vajrakilaya Research Centre: Led by Zuri Trulku, this international centre will specialize in the preservation of Vajrakilaya teachings and rare Buddhist scriptures.
- Kurkulee Centre: A vision of Gangtey Trulku Rinpoche, this centre will integrate sacred mandala architecture and house the revered Kurkulee Tara statue.
- Kesang Do Nags Shedrupling: Proposed by Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche, the institute will offer advanced academic degrees in Buddhist studies, blending rigorous scholarship with traditional practice.
- Kangyur Labyrinth: Conceptualized by His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon, this contemplative space will weave sacred scriptures into the design of a labyrinth, encouraging mindfulness and inner reflection.
- Gyenyen Nyekhang: Dedicated to Gyenyen Jakpa Melen, the protector deity of Gelephu, this site proposed by Trulku Marp will mirror the revered Dechenphu.
In addition to these eight projects, two sacred initiatives led by His Majesty The King will commence construction immediately:
- Gelephu Chorten: The symbolic centerpiece of the City, this Royal Project is inspired by the revered Jarong Khashor Stupa.
- Guru Nangsid Zilnon Lhakhang: Modelled after Bumthang’s Kurje Lhakhang, this temple is dedicated to a powerful manifestation of Guru Rinpoche, intended to bless the City’s foundations and benefit all sentient beings.
With ten projects now formally underway, the spiritual blueprint for Gelephu Mindfulness City is rapidly taking shape. Over 15 additional projects remain in development, with more expected as the City continues to align its vision with detailed site planning and sacred architectural principles.
These initiatives reflect Bhutan’s enduring spiritual values and the far-sighted vision of His Majesty The King. By intertwining sacred tradition with the modern aspiration for a peaceful and contemplative society, Gelephu Mindfulness City is poised to become not only a national treasure but a sanctuary for the world.
