On February 21, 2026, His Majesty The King, Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, and the Royal Family inaugurated the Ugyen Norlha Chorten and grounded the Gelephu Chorten as part of significant milestones in the development of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The Ugyen Norlha Chorten, dedicated to Guru Rinpoche’s manifestation of prosperity, commemorates the birth of Her Royal Highness Gyalsem Sonam Yangden Wangchuck, symbolizing auspicious beginnings essential to the vision of GMC. The Gelephu Chorten is designed like the Jarung Khashor stupa, and will stand 80 meters high, representing the 80 years of the Buddha’s life.
During the inauguration, over 16,000 volunteers participated in the fifth round of Zhabtog (volunteer service), working alongside Their Majesties. His Majesty expressed deep gratitude for the groundwork laid by His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, highlighting his pivotal role in the foundation of modern Bhutan, and mentioned the significance of GMC for the nation’s future. His Majesty announced an ambitious plan to build 108 Jangchub Chorten stupas along an 11-kilometer stretch in one day, emphasizing the unity and commitment required to face future challenges.
He praised the Bhutanese people’s abilities, communicating that his role is to guide them toward excellence. His Majesty also acknowledged the support of the Indian Government and Prime Minister Modi, awarding the Druk Thuksey Medal to Mrs. Thippaporn Ahriyavraromp and Dr. Nathawat Ahriyavraromp from MQDC, recognizing their significant contributions and belief in GMC’s vision.
The Zhabtog program involved clearing the Gelephu Chorten site and enhancing elephant habitats through environmental restorative efforts. The Royal Family inspected ongoing construction work at Gelephu International Airport and actively participated in volunteer activities over several days, planting trees and enriching key ecological sites.
The fifth Zhabtog Programme, running from February 21 to February 25, concluded with 28 volunteer teams working across seven sites for environmental restoration and site preparation, leaving a legacy of collective effort and commitment towards a flourishing Gelephu Mindfulness City.
