Danish architecture studio BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group, in collaboration with engineering giant
Arup and urban development consultancy firm Cistri, is set to develop the Gelephu Mindfulness
City. This visionary project will span over 1,000 sq km, boasting 35 rivers and streams, creating
a unique setting with a focus on mindfulness, sustainability, and harmony. This is the vision of
the fifth king Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Upon completion, the Mindfulness City will
showcase sustainable and value-driven urban development, breaking barriers for future
generations.
Situated in southern Bhutan, bordering India, the Gelephu Mindfulness City holds strategic
significance, connecting to South and Southeast Asia, opening doors for Bhutan to join the
global market. This venture involves substantial investments in public infrastructure, including
roads, bridges, and international airports, attracting foreign investments for offices, residences,
schools, hospitals, and businesses. The economic growth generated will benefit various
provinces in Bhutan, providing lucrative markets for local products and creating employment
opportunities, reducing the need for migration.
The Gelephu Special Administrative Region (SAR) challenges global economic development norms, aiming to achieve economic success without compromising environmental, societal, and
individual well-being.
Powered by renewable energy sources and utilizing local materials, the
city embraces sustainability and eco-friendliness, incorporating paddy fields and rivers to
preserve local flora and fauna. With a focus on mindfulness and sustainability, the city
encapsulates the rich culture of Buddhism, featuring temples on bridges and Vajrayana
Buddhism monks.
To ensure the success of the Gelephu project, priority is given to building the skills of the
Bhutanese people. The project’s goals extend beyond attracting investments, boosting trade, and
creating employment; it includes investments in green technology, education, and infrastructure.
The masterplan encompasses a new international airport, railway connections, a hydroelectric dam, public spaces, and local building typologies aligned with the nine domains of Gross
National Happiness (GNH). Nestled amidst mountains, forests, and rivers, Bhutan’s abundant biodiversity will be amplified, creating a vibrant tapestry of interconnected ecosystems and
neighborhoods. The city’s design mimics paddy fields, cascading down from highlands to
lowlands, ensuring a seamless blend of urban and natural landscapes. The Gelephu Mindfulness
City embodies Bhutan’s commitment to sustainable development and cultural preservation,
inspired by the vision of the fifth king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
A robust screening process will be implemented to ensure that companies and individuals
coming to Gelephu are culturally sensitive, respecting our traditions, and aligning with our
values.
Invitations will be extended selectively, welcoming only those entities that contribute significantly to sustainability of the world as a whole.This approach aims to prevent the entry of businesses that could negatively impact the environment and ensures that every invited entity is a positive force for the community.
