Bhutanese volunteers construct 108 stupas for new ‘Mindfulness’ City
A massive volunteer effort has resulted in the construction of 108 Buddhist stupas in Bhutan, marking a significant step in the development of the nation’s planned Gelephu Mindfulness City. The project aims to stimulate economic growth within the Himalayan kingdom.
The 15-meter (50-foot) stupas, traditional Buddhist monuments, were erected on Sunday along a 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) stretch of riverbank near the Indian border. Over 40,000 volunteers participated in the construction, which began after midnight. The number 108 holds deep spiritual significance in Buddhism, the predominant religion in Bhutan.
Approximately 200,000 people, representing nearly a quarter of Bhutan’s population, attended the ceremony.
“I was worried that raising 108 stupas in a single day might not succeed,” stated King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck during a speech. “But everything went successfully, and for that, I am truly grateful.”
Gelephu Mindfulness City, conceived by the king and designed by Danish architects, is intended to attract investment in sustainable business, green technology, education, tourism, and financial services, while also encouraging young Bhutanese citizens to remain in the country. Bhutan is currently facing economic headwinds, including unemployment and emigration.
The city is located in southern Bhutan, approximately 240 kilometers (150 miles) south of the capital, Thimphu, and currently houses around 10,000 residents. Established in 2024 via royal charter, the special zone is envisioned as a “vibrant economic hub.”
Bhutan, a landlocked nation of just under 800,000 people situated between China and India, is known for prioritizing “Gross National Happiness.”
“This occasion will be recorded in our history for generations to come,” remarked Nima Gyeltshen, 65, head of the Organisation for Youth Empowerment.
Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, founder of the Adani Group, became a founding member of the project in January. Future plans include connecting the site to India’s rail network in Assam and establishing an international airport by 2029.
The initiative also incorporates Bhutan’s ambitions in the cryptocurrency sector, with plans to mine Bitcoin using surplus hydropower and utilize digital assets for the city’s development.
“I hope to live long enough to see it,” said Bishnu Maya Moktang, 56, a local resident who attended the ceremony.
Source
“Tens of thousands build 108 Buddhist stupas for Bhutan ‘mindfulness’ city”
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