Royal Vision Takes Shape as Ground Breaks for 108 Jangchub Chortens in Gelephu

More than 30,000 volunteers register and over 80 chortens receive sponsorship as one of Bhutan’s largest spiritual projects gathers momentum

The vision of constructing 108 Jangchub Chortens in Gelephu took a significant step forward on June 16 as senior religious leaders of the Zhung Dratshang conducted groundbreaking ceremonies at three separate locations, marking the formal commencement of one of the most ambitious spiritual projects linked to the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).

The ceremonies were led simultaneously by the Dorji Lopen, Tsugla Lopen and Laytsho Lopen, symbolizing both the spiritual and cultural significance of the project.

The Dorji Lopen of the Central Monastic Body presided over the Salang Tendrel, or groundbreaking ceremony, for the 108th Chorten above the Zombabi Elephant Enrichment Area. At the same time, the Tsugla Lopen conducted the ceremony for the 92nd Chorten alongside monks and lams from Tsirang Rabdey, while the Laytsho Lopen led the groundbreaking ritual for the first chorten near Serzhong Bridge.

For many Bhutanese, the ceremonies represented more than the beginning of physical construction. They signified the spiritual sanctification of the land and the invocation of blessings to ensure the successful completion of the project.

“The purpose of conducting the Salang Tendrel is to seek the blessings of local deities and establish spiritual harmony with the land. It is also performed to ensure that the 108 Jangchub Chorten project progresses safely, free from obstacles and disasters, and brings lasting prosperity and benefit,” a renowned Khenpo explained.

The project was initiated under the vision of His Majesty The King and is expected to become one of the defining spiritual landmarks of the GMC. All 108 chortens are scheduled to be raised simultaneously on November 1 this year.

Each chorten will stand approximately 15 metres tall and will be positioned 108 metres apart in a continuous line stretching along the Mao River, creating a unique spiritual corridor within the emerging GMC landscape.

Project officials say preparations are progressing steadily, with widespread support from Bhutanese both at home and abroad.

As of June 16, sponsorships have been received for more than 80 chortens. This figure does not include numerous contributions made by individuals in other forms. The installation of the sacred zung will be coordinated by the Zhung Dratshang, while the project have already registered more than 30,000 volunteers who have expressed their willingness to participate in the construction of the 108 chortens.

The Authority noted that details regarding the selection and training of volunteers will be announced as the project progresses.

At the same time, spiritual preparations are also advancing simultaneously at the historic Sarpang Dzong, where monks have begun preparing the sacred zung that will be installed within each chorten.

Prepared according to centuries-old Buddhist traditions, the zung contains sacred relics, scriptures and ritual items and is considered the spiritual heart of every chorten. The process is being coordinated by the Zhung Dratshang and is expected to continue over the coming months.

Beyond its religious significance, the project has generated considerable excitement among ordinary Bhutanese, many of whom see it as a source of national pride and spiritual inspiration.

Karma Tshering, a resident of Gelephu who attended one of the ceremonies, said the project reflects Bhutan’s unique identity at a time of rapid development.

“Gelephu is growing very fast with the Mindfulness City project, but it is important that we do not lose our spiritual roots. The 108 chortens will remind future generations of our values and traditions,” he said.

Similarly, Sonam Choden, a shopkeeper from Sarpang, said she hopes the project will benefit both local communities and visitors.

“I believe these chortens will become a place where people can come to pray, meditate and find peace. It will also attract visitors and create opportunities for local businesses,” she said.

Another resident, Ugyen Dorji, described the initiative as a project that belongs to all Bhutanese. “Many people are contributing through sponsorships, volunteering and prayers. It gives us a sense of ownership and participation in something meaningful that will endure for generations,” he said.

As construction preparations gather momentum and thousands of volunteers prepare to take part, the 108 Jangchub Chortens project is steadily evolving from a royal vision into a national undertaking, one that many hope will stand as a lasting symbol of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and aspirations for the future.

Tashi Namgyal, Thimphu

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