Gelephu’s old town is about to take on a new look. Around 40 buildings will be rebuilt or upgraded as the Gelephu Mindfulness City works to create a modern urban centre rooted in Bhutanese identity. Japanese architecture firm Nikken Sekkei will lead the first phase, bringing Japanese expertise together with Bhutanese design, materials and craftsmanship.
Around 40 buildings, will be rebuilt or upgraded. The first phase will run from the streets next to ChoeGo towards the iconic V-shaped building at the centre of town. It will also cover the two streets opposite the Clock Tower.
The redevelopment will bring together Bhutanese traditional architecture, local materials and craftsmanship with modern engineering and urban planning. The plan also puts pedestrians first, with greater emphasis on walking, cycling and quieter forms of transport.
GMCA has appointed Japanese architecture, urban planning and engineering firm Nikken Sekkei to lead the architectural and structural design.
The GMCA Co-CEO, Seow Hiang Lee, said the project is not simply about replacing old buildings. He said the aim is to strengthen what already exists and prepare Gelephu Old Town for the city’s future.
For residents, the transformation could bring significant changes to the town they know today.
“ChoeGo has become one of the unique buildings in Gelephu. It has attracted both residents and visitors. Now, with the town planning and revitalisation work starting in this area, I think it will make the town more attractive and create more places for people to visit and spend time,” said Hemlal Dhakal, a resident of Gelephu.
“ChoeGo has already made Gelephu look more beautiful and has added to the facelift of the town. We have heard that more buildings like this will come up as part of the town development. We are excited about it. I think Gelephu will become a unique town, benefiting the local community and attracting more tourists and visitors,” said Krishna Kumar Pokhrel, another resident of Gelephu.
“When people from outside come to Gelephu and see more buildings like ChoeGo, I believe they will get a better sense of our Bhutanese architecture and tradition. It will help showcase our culture to visitors,” said Sonam Penjor, also a resident.
Nikken Sekkei says Gelephu brings together Bhutan’s cultural heritage and an ambitious vision for the future. The firm says it is looking forward to working with experts from Bhutan and around the world on the project.
The first phase of the Gelephu Old Town revitalisation is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.
For Gelephu, the transformation marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that seeks to modernise the town while keeping its identity at the heart of its future.
Passang Dorji/Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
