Two more spiritual projects, the Kangyur Labyrinth and Kesang Do Ngag Shedrupling, held their Salang Tendrel, or groundbreaking ceremony, on Saturday in Gelephu, marking another milestone in the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
The Kangyur Labyrinth, initiated under the guidance of Drikung Kyabgon, will be constructed at Pemathang in Gelephu Gewog. The Salang Tendrel ceremony was presided over by Choeze Kuchen Rinpoche.
Unlike a maze, the labyrinth features a single, unbroken path leading to the center, symbolizing life’s journey, self-reflection, and enlightenment. At its core, it will enshrine the Kangyur, the Buddha’s most sacred text composed entirely of his own words. The project, estimated to cost between 50 and 100 million USD, is set to begin next year and be completed by December 2029.
Khoo Peng Beng, the architect of Kangyur Labyrinth Project said, “The labyrinth is based on the lotus flower, a powerful symbol in Buddhism and one that resonates deeply with Bhutan. This project aligns with the vision of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, creating a space for people from Bhutan and across the world to find peace and mindfulness within.”
Among the attendees was 84-year-old Cheki Wangdi from Pemathang village, whose 3.6 acres of land form the core of the Kangyur Lhakhang site. He says he feels fortunate and blessed to have his land serve a sacred purpose.
Cheki Wangdi, a resident said, “Unlike other areas, my land has fallen under the construction of a Kangyur Lhakhang, and I feel very blessed. Giving my land for such a sacred purpose will help me earn good merits. I can now die with relief knowing that the Buddha Dharma will continue for generations.”
The second project, Kesang Do Ngag Shedrupling, initiated by Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche, will be located at Pelrithang in Gelephu Gewog. The ground breaking ceremony was graced by Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche, and Her Royal Highness Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck.
The institution is envisioned as a global centre for Buddhist learning and practice, welcoming students from Bhutan and around the world to study wisdom and compassion, teachings that remain deeply relevant in today’s world.
The academic curriculum will offer Buddhist studies leading to Master’s and, eventually, Doctoral degrees, covering Buddhist philosophy, epistemology, history, classical languages, and translation of Buddhist texts. The institute also plans to establish academic affiliations with reputed universities for accreditation.
Khenpo Ngawang Jamtsho, Executive Member of Kesang Do Ngag Shedrupling said, “We are constructing this educational institute to provide an opportunity for students from Bhutan and around the world to study and practice the teachings of wisdom and compassion. With the Salang Tendrel held today, we have officially begun our work, and we aim to complete the project alongside the Gelephu International Airport.”
With the Salang Tendrel for these two new spiritual projects, Gelephu Mindfulness City now hosts 14 sacred projects, including the recently approved Druk Ugyen Samye Ling, Gelephu Maitreya Temple, and Tara Retreat Center.
Passang Dorji
