With Bhutan’s rich heritage of spiritual architecture as its backdrop, the Commission for Religious Organisations, Chhoedey Lhentshog, has moved to bring uniformity to the nation’s Zangdopelris—the revered celestial palaces of Guru Rinpoche that dot the Himalayan kingdom. The landmark decision was reached at the conclusion of the 8th annual gathering of Religious Organisation Chairpersons in Paro, which drew leaders from monasteries, cultural experts, and, for its closing session on Sunday, even Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay.
Currently, each Zangdopelri reflects the unique interpretation of its builders—guided variously by ancient manuscripts or the counsel of local lamas—resulting in an eclectic array of forms and motifs. To harmonize this diversity, the commission voted to establish a dedicated working committee. This panel will blend the spiritual insight of religious bodies with the technical expertise of the Department of Culture’s architects and engineers.
“By clearly delineating roles—interior adornment to follow scriptural dictates under the watch of religious custodians, while the external shell adheres to a unified blueprint overseen by structural experts—we can ensure both authenticity and structural integrity,” explained Singye Samdrup, a specialist with the Department of Culture and Dzongkha Development.
Echoing this sentiment, Ngodup Dorji, chairperson of the Longchenpa Centre, emphasized the practical and spiritual benefits of standardization. “Though sacred texts may describe slight variations, the foundational concept of Zangdopelri is constant. A single, approved template will streamline the approval process and guide devotees and craftsmen alike toward a common vision,” he said.
Voices from the field underscore the need. Jigme Wangchuk, leader of the Ugyen Pejung Sidhi Dungdrup Tsogchung in Lhuntse, pointed out that while most Bhutanese Zangdopelri Lhakhangs follow a three-storey design—honoring Choeku Yoëdpamed above, Longku Chenrezi in the middle, and Guru Rinpoche at ground level—essential details cited in the Kilkhor manuscripts are sometimes omitted. “A standardized model will not only safeguard these scriptural nuances for future generations but also offer tourists a genuine portrayal of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage,” he noted.
Bhutan currently counts 111 registered religious organisations under the aegis of the Chhoedey Lhentshog, chaired by the Minister of Home Affairs. With the formation of the new committee, stakeholders anticipate draft guidelines for the exterior design to be completed later this year, laying a new cornerstone for Bhutan’s sacred architecture.
