Bhutan builds 108 Buddhist monuments for new mindfulness city

Published 20h ago · Latest report 1h ago

Affects Bhutan and India · Covered in 2 countries

AI summary48s readPositive

Bhutan is building 108 Buddhist monuments to launch its ambitious new economic hub.

Thousands of participants in Bhutan are constructing 108 Buddhist stupas to establish the spiritual base of Gelephu Mindfulness City. The ambitious urban project aims to transform the region into a spirituality-driven global economic hub and encourage young citizens to remain in the country. India has provided sacred relics to be enshrined within the new monuments.

The architectureVolunteers are simultaneously raising 108 stupas known locally as chortens.
The originSacred relics linked to India are being enshrined inside the newly built structures.
The leadershipKing Jigme Wangchuk described the massive undertaking as a test of national character.
The goalAuthorities hope the mindfulness metropolis will bolster the domestic economy and reduce youth emigration.

Why it matters

Bhutan has long prioritized gross national happiness over pure economic output, but the Himalayan nation faces economic headwinds and the emigration of young professionals seeking better opportunities abroad. The Gelephu Mindfulness City represents a major strategic pivot to attract global investment while preserving traditional Buddhist values.

By the numbers1

108chortens

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What outlets agree on

Thousands of people are simultaneously constructing 108 Buddhist stupas in Bhutan to lay the spiritual foundation for Gelephu Mindfulness City, incorporating India-linked relics.

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