On 24 March 2026, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck visited Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) to inspect the planned site for the construction of the 108 Jangchub Chorten, a significant initiative announced during the prior month’s launch of the 5th Zhabtog voluntary programme. This ambitious project is not merely a physical development; rather, it is a symbolic endeavor that embodies the spiritual and collective values of Bhutan. The chortens will span an 11-kilometre area, creating a continuous sacred landscape that solidifies GMC’s identity based on mindfulness, unity, and purpose.
Accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck and other officials, His Majesty conducted an inaugural walk along the intended stretch for the chortens, each anticipated to stand 15 meters high. The visual and spiritual impact of these structures is expected to significantly enhance the area, merging sacred architecture with the natural landscape. Notably, this initiative aims to complete all 108 chortens within a single day, showcasing logistical challenges while embodying the strength of unity and collective endeavor. This goal necessitates broad participation, meticulous planning, and a united commitment to shared objectives.
The project’s introduction was highlighted on February 21 during the groundbreaking of the Gelephu Chorten in Chuzergang, where His Majesty emphasized the courage, unity, and deep commitment required to realize such ambitions. He articulated the project’s purpose as a way to illustrate Bhutan’s capabilities when responding to forthcoming challenges through solidarity.
The 108 Jangchub Chorten project also carries profound spiritual significance, as the number 108 symbolizes completeness and the enlightenment path in Buddhism. It fosters community engagement and responsibility by encouraging participation from citizens nationwide toward a single cause, reflecting Bhutan’s core values. This initiative aligns harmoniously with the Zhabtog programme’s ethos, promoting voluntary service as a pathway to nation-building.
During the visit, His Majesty also met with the third cohort of the Pelsung programme trainees, reinforcing the importance of cultivating a generation grounded in discipline, service, and leadership—a vision integral to both the Pelsung initiative and GMC’s broader objectives. The 108 Jangchub Chorten project stands as a pivotal milestone in GMC’s evolution, blending spirituality, community involvement, and national aspirations. As GMC progresses, initiatives like this demonstrate that Bhutan’s development transcends mere infrastructure, instead reflecting its core values and collective spirit.
