--- title: "Bhutanese Volunteers Build 108 Stupas in Gelephu Mindfulness City" url: https://newscentral.site/bhutanese-volunteers-build-108-stupas-in-gelephu-mindfulness-city/ language: en publisher: "News Central Site" section: "World" published: 2026-11-01T20:03:32.000Z updated: 2026-11-02T06:37:52.001Z id: 032537b7-a74f-4c78-9581-bb9aee0cec82 source: "ABC News International https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/thousands-volunteers-build-108-stupas-day-bhutans-gelephu-137752348" attribution: "Link to https://newscentral.site/bhutanese-volunteers-build-108-stupas-in-gelephu-mindfulness-city/ and name News Central Site when you quote or summarize this story." --- # Bhutanese Volunteers Build 108 Stupas in Gelephu Mindfulness City Thousands of volunteers from around the world have come together to witness an extraordinary feat: the construction of 108 stupas in a single day. Thousands of volunteers have come together in Gelephu, Bhutan, to witness an extraordinary feat: the construction of 108 stupas in a single day. This impressive achievement has been made possible by the gathering of Buddhist masters from various schools and denominations alongside approximately 200,000 people from around the world. The newly built stupas serve as sacred structures that symbolize Buddha's enlightenment. They are an integral part of Gelephu Mindfulness City, a vibrant economic hub being developed with a focus on ecological sustainability and the happiness of its citizens. This innovative approach is in line with the ideals of Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The city, currently a small town with a population of around 10,000, is located in southern Bhutan along the border with India. It lies approximately 150 miles south of Thimphu, the nation's capital. The construction of Gelephu Mindfulness City is seen as a crucial step towards boosting the country's economy and providing opportunities for its citizens. Bhutan is facing significant economic challenges, including rising unemployment and falling birth rates. Many skilled workers have left the country in search of better prospects. In response to these issues, Bhutanese are pinning their hopes on Gelephu Mindfulness City to create jobs and encourage young people to stay in the country. The 108 stupas, each standing about 50 feet tall, will be spaced approximately 354 feet apart along the Mao Chhu river. This formation is designed to resemble a "procession" of monuments, according to the project's website. The number 108 holds great significance in Buddhism, which is widely practiced in Bhutan. The construction of 108 Jangchub Chortens, also known as stupas, in Bhutan's Gelephu Mindfulness City has reached its external completion, thanks to the efforts of approximately 40,000 volunteers who worked tirelessly over several months. These sacred structures are not just impressive feats of engineering but also carry significant spiritual meaning within the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition. In this branch of Buddhism, building a chorten is considered one of the most meritorious acts that can bring spiritual benefits to those involved and others who interact with it. The project's organizers stated that the structures will be filled with prayers, blessings, relics, and sacred texts, effectively turning them into permanent physical forms of prayer. This process aims to imbue the stupas with spiritual energy, making them a lasting source of positivity for all who encounter them. Devout followers gathered at night to chant, offer prayers, and hold glowing yellow light balls in reverence at the base of the newly constructed stupas. The collective atmosphere was one of serenity and devotion as people came together to honor this sacred undertaking. Bhutan's unique cultural landscape is deeply intertwined with Vajrayana Buddhism, which has been enshrined as the state religion within its constitution. This philosophy underpins the country's concept of Gross National Happiness, prioritizing peace and collective well-being over mere economic growth. The tradition of building chortens in Bhutan dates back over 2,500 years to the time when relics of the Buddha were enshrined within them after his passing. Sunday's event at Gelephu Mindfulness City was a significant occasion for the country, with thousands of volunteers coming together to build 108 stupas. According to Kinley Dorji, spokesperson for the city, this gathering marked a major milestone in Bhutanese history and spirituality. The location chosen for the construction is a prime spot along a river that marks the boundary between India's plains and the Himalayas. This area was selected due to its unique geography and spiritual significance. The stupas will be built in this picturesque setting, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Among the guests attending the event were Buddhist masters from various temples and monasteries worldwide. They brought treasured offerings and blessings for the newly constructed stupas. One such delegation included Venerable Pannakara, a Theravada Buddhist monk who had previously completed an impressive 108-day, 2,300-mile Walk for Peace. Pannakara's journey to Bhutan was part of a sacred pilgrimage, as he joined others in attending the consecration ceremony of the stupas. He documented his experience on social media, including a video tour of the completed structures. The volunteers and workers had achieved an impressive feat, assembling prefabricated pieces to build 108 stupas within just 12 hours, four hours ahead of schedule. The volunteers' incredible feat was a testament to their dedication and teamwork. Thousands of people from around the world had gathered in Gelephu Mindfulness City, drawn by the unique opportunity to witness this special event. The sheer scale of the effort was impressive, with 108 stupas assembled within an astonishing 12 hours - four hours ahead of schedule. --- Source: [ABC News International](https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/thousands-volunteers-build-108-stupas-day-bhutans-gelephu-137752348) Published by News Central Site: https://newscentral.site/bhutanese-volunteers-build-108-stupas-in-gelephu-mindfulness-city/