A once ordinary structure in Gelephu is now drawing crowds and attention, standing out as a symbol of change. ChoeGo GMC, the first renovated building under the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, is offering a glimpse into the future of the city.
From then to now, ChoeGo GMC’s transformation is hard to miss.
Towering above the town, ChoeGo GMC is impossible to miss, whether from the ground or the sky.
Meaning “you are needed,” the name reflects a vision of inclusion and shared responsibility in shaping the city’s future.
While it dominates the skyline from above, the real attention is happening on the ground. Even as finishing touches continue, the building is already drawing crowds, offering residents and visitors a glimpse of what lies ahead. Many say it is unlike anything they’ve seen before.
Karma, a resident of Gelephu said, “I have never seen a building like this before, not even in our country. The design is very beautiful, and it’s huge. For us here in Gelephu, it’s a proud moment.”
Tshering, another resident of Gelephu said, “When we see a building like this here, it’s surprising and impressive. Gelephu is changing, things were not like this before. It’s exciting to see such developments happening.”
Likewise, Sonam, a resident said, “It’s a good blend of Bhutanese traditional and modern design, and they go very well together. The use of local materials makes it even more meaningful. It will be an example for future generations, and it feels proud to see visitors appreciating it.”
Inside, the transformation is well underway. The first phase of construction has been completed, covering the building façade, basement parking, ground floor, and the fourth-floor corporate office. Core systems, including fire safety and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing, have been upgraded to international standards.
Work is now ongoing to install electric vehicle charging stations and rooftop solar panels, expected to be completed by mid-May.
Dorji Yangki, Managing Director of GMCA said, “The GMC ChoeGo will be a vibrant place to work, interact, and experience. If anyone really wants to understand GMC, its development plans and His Majesty’s vision for this transformative city, then I would say a visit to the GMC ChoeGo is a must. ChoeGo will house a state-of-the-art immersive Experience Centre on the ground floor. This is being designed and developed by GMCA, with support from an international firm from Thailand, and we expect it to be ready within the next five to six months.”
The next phase of construction is set to begin shortly. This will focus on developing the first, second, and third floors, bringing in innovation spaces, co-living hotel rooms, and additional functional areas.
The building is also designed as a mixed-use space, bringing together work, lifestyle, and experience under one roof. The fourth floor already houses international-standard office spaces and fully equipped meeting rooms, offering a professional environment for businesses and partners. Several local and international firms, including BIG, MQDC, Terrama, DK Bank, and the Bhutan Trust Fund, have already set up or committed to offices here.
Managing Director Dorji Yangki said, “Beyond the Experience Centre and offices, visitors can enjoy cafés, a souvenir shop, and innovation hubs. The upper floors will also offer co-living concepts hotels for guests and will also house a state of the art gym.”
Despite its scale, officials say the project has remained on track. Minor design refinements, such as expanding the Experience Centre, were incorporated without affecting timelines. The first phase, comparable to multiple residential projects, was completed in just six months, setting a benchmark for future developments. Cost-wise, the project has remained within its initial budget, with strict oversight ensuring financial discipline.
Looking ahead, similar approaches are planned for other structures within Gelephu’s old town, aiming to preserve what is valuable while upgrading the area to modern, international standards.
Offering more than just a glimpse, ChoeGo GMC brings the vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City closer to reality, setting the pace for what is yet to come.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi
