Construction of the Shambala Dzong, one of the major spiritual projects under the Gelephu Mindfulness City, has officially begun. Led by the Central Monastic Body, the dzong is expected to become a key centre for Vajrayana training and preservation of sacred arts.
Among the 14 planned spiritual projects within the Gelephu Mindfulness City, the Gelephu Dzong, now named Shambala Dzong, is taking shape both on paper and on the ground. According to the project management team, the outer architectural designs of the dzong are almost complete, while work on the internal designs is currently underway.
On the ground, initial construction activities have begun with the development of labour camps and workspaces.
Tashi Tshering, the project director of the Shambala Dzong Project said, “As of today, the designs of the outer part of the dzong are almost complete, and we are also working on the internal designs. For this project, we estimate that around 400 labourers will be required. We have already started constructing labour camps and workspaces for about 200 workers, and we are in the process of arranging the remaining workforce.”
The dzong itself will rise on seven acres within a broader 50-acre campus. Originally planned at the Phulari Viewpoint, the project was later moved to the base of Phulari, opening up a far larger and more practical space for construction. Although the final cost of the project has yet to be determined, preliminary estimates suggest the structure could cost around three billion ngultrum.
Tashi Tshering said, “For now, our architects and engineers have not been able to determine the exact cost. However, based on the current designs and plans, we estimate that about three billion ngultrums will be required for the construction.”
In addition to the main dzong, several other spiritual structures are planned under the Shambala Dzong project.
Laytshog Lopen Sangay Dorji said, “As part of the Shambala Dzong project, we are undertaking three main projects, the Jarong Khashor stupa, the Gyenyen Nyekhang, and the Shambala Dzong itself. We expect other related construction works to begin within this month.”
Expected to be completed alongside the Gelephu International Airport, the Shambala Dzong will serve as a comprehensive Vajrayana training and exhibition centre, aimed at preserving sacred arts and ritual practices.
Passang Dorji & Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
