Latest Gelephu Mindfulness City News & Updates

Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) continues to make progress as Bhutan develops its ambitious Special Administrative Region in the country's south. From major spiritual initiatives such as Project 108 to new immigration infrastructure and international connectivity projects, GMC is steadily moving from vision to implementation.

Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) is one of Bhutan's most ambitious national development initiatives, envisioned as a new economic and urban centre in southern Bhutan that integrates sustainable development, technological innovation, cultural heritage and mindfulness.

Announced in December 2023 by His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, the project aims to create new economic opportunities for Bhutan while preserving the country's distinctive values and environmental priorities.

As of October 2026, Gelephu Mindfulness City is progressing through major infrastructure developments, international investment initiatives, improved border connectivity and landmark cultural projects.

Among the most significant developments are Project 108, the construction of Gelephu International Airport, the introduction of biometric immigration facilities and new initiatives supporting technology investment and climate resilience.

This page brings together the latest Gelephu Mindfulness City news, important milestones and upcoming developments, with links to detailed coverage.

Here are the latest key developments shaping Gelephu Mindfulness City in 2026.

Gelephu Mindfulness City 2026: Key Highlights at a Glance

These figures and statuses reflect reports available up to 26 October 2026. Planned completion dates and proposed investments are subject to change.

1. Project 108: Over 120,000 Visitors Expected in Gelephu for Historic Chorten Construction

October 2026

One of the biggest developments in Gelephu Mindfulness City is Project 108, a Royal initiative to construct 108 Jangchub Chortens (Stupas of Enlightenment) along approximately 12 kilometres of the Mau Chhu river corridor.

Scheduled for 1 November 2026, the initiative will see the external structures of all 108 chortens completed in a coordinated effort, following months of groundwork and preparation.

Each chorten will stand approximately 15 metres tall, with the project symbolising peace, unity and Bhutan's Buddhist heritage.

More than 120,000 visitors have registered for the event, including Bhutanese citizens, international guests and prominent Buddhist teachers. International martial arts star Jet Li is also expected to attend.

With Gelephu's hotels fully booked, organisers are preparing additional campsites, transport services and visitor facilities to accommodate the gathering.

Project 108 key facts

Read more on Daily Bhutan:

• Gelephu Prepares for More Than 120,000 Visitors Ahead of Project 108

• Project 108: Bhutan's Ambitious Vision to Build a Line of Prayer Across the Land

• Over 70 Jangchub Chortens Sponsored as Project 108 Gains Momentum

2. Gelephu Opens Biometric Immigration Terminal for Faster Bhutan–India Border Crossings

24 October 2026

Gelephu has introduced a new biometric immigration terminal, marking an important step towards modernising cross-border travel between Bhutan and India.

Opened on 22 October 2026, the pedestrian terminal uses facial recognition technology and automated e-gates to streamline immigration clearance for eligible Bhutanese and Indian nationals.

The system verifies travellers against previously registered biometric information, reducing the need for routine manual identity checks. Traditional immigration counters remain available for travellers who have not registered their biometric information.

The new facility is expected to improve border efficiency as Gelephu Mindfulness City expands its transport and economic connections with neighbouring India.

Temporary arrangements have also been introduced for invited international guests attending Project 108 between 24 October and 6 November 2026, subject to the necessary immigration clearances.

Read more: Gelephu Opens Biometric Immigration Terminal for Faster India–Bhutan Border Crossings — Daily Bhutan

3. Project 108 Attracts International Support and Sponsorship

2026

Project 108 has received growing support from Bhutanese communities, institutions, businesses and international contributors.

More than 70 of the 108 planned chortens had secured sponsorship at the time of Daily Bhutan's report, reflecting the project's appeal beyond Bhutan's borders.

Preparations have also included the creation and consecration of sacred contents, known as zung, which will be placed inside the chortens.

These preparations highlight the spiritual significance of the project, which brings together traditional Buddhist practices, community participation and modern construction coordination.

Read more on Daily Bhutan:

• Over 70 Jangchub Chortens Sponsored as Project 108 Gains Momentum

• Bhutan Begins Preparing Sacred Relics for Project 108's Chortens

4. Gelephu International Airport Development Progresses Towards 2029 Target

2025–2026

The development of Gelephu International Airport remains one of the most important infrastructure initiatives supporting GMC's long-term ambitions.

Construction was formally launched in July 2025, with the airport currently targeted for completion in 2029.

Designed to strengthen Bhutan's international connectivity, the airport is expected to support tourism, investment, business travel and logistics.

The architectural concept, developed by Bjarke Ingels Group and collaborators, draws inspiration from Bhutanese architecture and traditional craftsmanship.

Once operational, the airport could significantly improve international access to southern Bhutan and complement the country's existing international gateway in Paro.

For travellers planning a visit before the new airport opens, Druk Asia provides information on existing flight routes, Bhutan visa requirements and travel arrangements.

5. Gelephu Mindfulness City Advances Infrastructure and Investment Plans

October 2026

Beyond its spiritual and tourism initiatives, GMC continues to establish the foundations of a new economic centre.

Recent developments include the handover of flood protection infrastructure along Gelephu's river systems and the announcement of a proposed AI data centre initiative involving Bitdeer.

These initiatives reflect two important priorities for the city: building resilient infrastructure and attracting investment in emerging industries.

Flood management is particularly significant because Gelephu's river systems and monsoon climate create environmental challenges that must be addressed as urban development expands.

Meanwhile, technology-related investment proposals demonstrate GMC's ambition to develop new industries alongside its commitments to sustainability and well-being.

6. GMC and Bitdeer Advance Plans for an AI Data Centre Campus

15 October 2026 · Technology and investment

Gelephu Mindfulness City has taken another step towards developing its technology sector through a proposed artificial intelligence data centre campus involving Bitdeer.

On 15 October 2026, GMC announced that the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority, Gelephu Investment Development Corporation and Bitdeer had signed a letter of intent to advance the initiative.

What is being proposed?

The proposed data centre campus would support high-performance computing and artificial intelligence workloads.

Bitdeer has disclosed plans targeting an initial 30 megawatts of renewable hydro- and solar-powered capacity, with a potential expansion pathway of up to 500 megawatts.

These figures represent the proposed development concept rather than installed or operational capacity.

Why an AI data centre could be important for GMC

Large-scale AI infrastructure requires substantial electricity, reliable connectivity and specialised computing facilities.

Bhutan's renewable energy resources could provide an opportunity to support energy-intensive digital industries, subject to the availability of suitable infrastructure and commercial arrangements.

If developed, the proposed campus could contribute to GMC's ambition to attract technology investment, create specialised employment opportunities and diversify Bhutan's economy.

What makes GMC different from the rest of Bhutan?

Unlike a conventional urban development project, Gelephu Mindfulness City is intended to operate under a specialised administrative and regulatory framework.

Its economic vision encompasses sectors such as sustainable tourism, education, healthcare, financial services, technology and other knowledge-based industries.

The city is also being planned around principles of mindfulness, environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.

What does this mean for international investors?

GMC aims to establish a business environment that can attract international entrepreneurs, companies and institutional investors.

However, prospective investors should distinguish between the city's long-term ambitions and regulations that have already entered into force.

Business registration, licensing, taxation, employment, land use and other regulatory requirements should be checked against current official GMC publications.

As the city's institutions and regulatory systems develop, announcements relating to company formation, investment incentives and permitted business activities will be important milestones to follow.

How GMC could change travel to southern Bhutan

Historically, many international tourists have concentrated their visits around western Bhutan, particularly Paro, Thimphu and Punakha.

As southern Bhutan's infrastructure develops, Gelephu could become a more accessible destination for business visitors, international events and tourists interested in exploring other parts of the kingdom.

For now, visitors should continue using existing approved entry points and confirm travel requirements before making arrangements.

What are the latest Gelephu Mindfulness City developments in 2026?

Major developments reported in October 2026 include preparations for Project 108, the opening of a biometric immigration terminal, the handover of flood protection infrastructure and a proposed AI data centre initiative involving Bitdeer. Construction of Gelephu International Airport also remains a major long-term priority.

What is Project 108 in Gelephu Mindfulness City?

Project 108 is a Royal initiative to construct 108 Jangchub Chortens along approximately 11.7 kilometres of the Mau Chhu river corridor. The external structures are scheduled to be raised together on 1 November 2026.

When will Gelephu International Airport be completed?

The new Gelephu International Airport is currently targeted for completion in 2029. This is a development target rather than a confirmed date for the commencement of commercial international flights.

Is Gelephu Mindfulness City already open?

Gelephu is an existing town in southern Bhutan, and development activities within GMC are underway. However, the broader city is a long-term project being developed in phases. It should not be described as a fully completed new city.

Can foreigners invest or start a business in Gelephu Mindfulness City?

GMC is intended to attract international businesses and investors. Actual investment and company formation requirements depend on the applicable regulations, licensing processes and sector-specific rules. Prospective investors should consult official GMC information.

Can tourists visit Gelephu Mindfulness City?

Yes. Gelephu is accessible to visitors who meet Bhutan's applicable entry requirements. However, some construction areas and development sites may not be accessible to the general public.

What is the difference between Gelephu Mindfulness City and Bhutan's existing tourism destinations?

GMC is envisioned as a special administrative and economic region focused on sustainable urban development, investment and innovation. Existing tourism destinations such as Paro, Thimphu and Punakha are established centres for Bhutan's cultural, historical and nature-based tourism experiences.

Where can I find reliable Gelephu Mindfulness City updates?

Official announcements are published through Gelephu Mindfulness City, while Daily Bhutan provides news reporting and contextual coverage of major developments across Bhutan.

For ongoing Gelephu Mindfulness City coverage, visit Daily Bhutan for the latest news, developments and stories from across the kingdom.