108 Stupas Bhutan: Bhutan has undertaken a major religious and cultural initiative by constructing 108 sacred Buddhist stupas in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), near the Indian border. The project reflects Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage, community participation and vision of sustainable development. At the same time, Gelephu is gaining importance in India-Bhutan relations because of its potential to become a major economic and connectivity hub for India’s Northeast. India’s investment in railway and border infrastructure is also expected to strengthen regional trade, tourism and strategic cooperation.
Why in News?
On 1 November 2026, Bhutan raised 108 sacred Buddhist stupas in a single day at Gelephu Mindfulness City.
India was represented at the ceremony by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. The event was led by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and witnessed the participation of thousands of volunteers.
Key Facts About the 108 Stupas Project
The project, known as Project 108, is an important religious initiative in Bhutan.
- Location: Gelephu Mindfulness City, Bhutan.
- Number of Stupas: 108.
- Height: 15 metres each.
- Distance: 108 metres between consecutive stupas.
- Stretch: Approximately 11.7 kilometres along the Aie (Mau) River.
- Participation: Around 40,000 volunteers.
- Main Leader: King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
The structures are known as Jangchub Chortens and represent Buddhist spiritual traditions.
Why is the Number 108 Important in Buddhism?
The number 108 holds special religious significance in Buddhist traditions.
- Buddhist prayer malas traditionally contain 108 beads.
- The Kangyur, containing the teachings of Buddha, is traditionally associated with 108 volumes.
- The number represents spiritual practices and the journey towards enlightenment.
The project aims to promote peace, harmony and collective spiritual well-being.
What is Gelephu Mindfulness City?
Gelephu Mindfulness City is an ambitious development initiative envisioned by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.
It aims to develop Gelephu into an international economic and investment centre while maintaining Bhutan’s cultural identity and environmental values.
Its proposed development sectors include:
- Green energy
- Information technology
- Finance and investment
- Healthcare
- Education
- Aviation
- Tourism
The city is expected to create employment opportunities, attract international investment, and address challenges such as youth unemployment and migration.
Why is Gelephu Important for India?
Gelephu is located close to Assam in India’s Northeast. Its development offers opportunities to strengthen India’s economic and transport connectivity with Bhutan.
India is supporting the development through several connectivity initiatives.
1. India-Bhutan Railway Connectivity
In September 2025, India and Bhutan agreed to develop two cross-border railway links:
| Railway Project | Proposed Route |
| Kokrajhar-Gelephu | Assam to Bhutan |
| Banarhat-Samtse | West Bengal to Bhutan |
The combined estimated investment is ₹4,033 crore, funded by India.
The proposed Kokrajhar-Gelephu railway line will cover approximately 69 kilometres.
2. Border Infrastructure Development
India is also strengthening border connectivity through immigration facilities and logistics infrastructure.
The immigration check post at Hatisar in Assam is intended to facilitate the movement of visitors and investors travelling to Gelephu.
3. Economic Opportunities for Northeast India
The development of Gelephu could benefit Assam and neighbouring northeastern states through:
- Cross-border trade and investment.
- Tourism and hospitality.
- Agricultural product exports.
- Transport and logistics development.
- Employment and business opportunities.
Strategic Importance of Gelephu for India – 108 Stupas Bhutan
Gelephu also has geopolitical importance because of Bhutan’s geographical position between India and China.
Bhutan and China have an unresolved boundary dispute. The Doklam region is particularly sensitive because of its proximity to the Siliguri Corridor, which connects mainland India with the Northeast.
India’s growing economic and infrastructure cooperation with Bhutan strengthens bilateral connectivity and supports regional stability.
However, Bhutan continues to pursue its own diplomatic and development priorities.
Conclusion – 108 Stupas Bhutan
The construction of 108 sacred stupas represents Bhutan’s religious heritage and collective community participation. Beyond its spiritual importance, Gelephu Mindfulness City has the potential to transform regional connectivity and economic cooperation between Bhutan and India’s Northeast. India’s railway investment and infrastructure support reflect the growing importance of bilateral relations in trade, development, and regional security.
