Barchey Kuensel Chorten is a central stupa surrounded by 108 smaller stupas in Samtengang under the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). It is built to symbolize peace, harmony, and universal well-being under the leadership of Khenpo Karma Wangchuk.
Barched Kuensel Chorten will become one of the spiritual foundations of Gelephu Mindfulness City, reflecting Bhutan’s enduring Buddhist values and His Majesty’s visionary guidance for the nation’s spiritual future.
Location of Barched Kuensel Chorten
Barchey Kuensel Chorten will be constructed on a 21-acre site at Samtengang in Samtenling Gewog under Gelephu Mindfulness City, overlooking the entire airport area.
Background of Barchey Kuensel Chorten
Barchey Kuensel Chorten is one of the eight spiritual projects under the GMC officially approved by His Majesty the King on 12 May 2025. The Gyalpoi Zimpon, Dasho Ugyen Namgyel, presented the Royal Edicts at a traditional ceremony at Simtokha Dzong.
The other spiritual projects under GMC include:
- Gelephu Dzong (Shambhala Dzong)
- Tashi Gomang Chorten
- Vajrakilaya Research Centre
- Kurkulee Centre
- Kesang Do Nags Shedrupling
- Kangyur Labyrinth
- Gyenyen Nyekhang
In addition, two Royal Projects, the Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsi Zilnon Lhakhang, as well as the Tabab Chorten, initiated by the Zhung Dratshang, are currently being established in GMC.
Construction of Barchey Kuensel Chorten
The groundbreaking ceremony (Salhang Tendrel) for the Gelephu Barched Kuensel Choeten was presided over by Kathok Situ Rinpoche on October 28, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the project.
Construction of the main Chorten is scheduled to begin in 2026, with completion planned for 2029, coinciding with the completion of the Gelephu International Airport.
Description of Barchey Kuensel Chorten
Barchey Kuensel Chorten will feature a majestic 61-meter-tall central stupa, encircled by 108 smaller stupas, symbolizing purification, compassion, and enlightenment.
Conclusion
Barched Kuensel Chorten is more than a sacred monument. It is a living expression of Bhutan’s spiritual identity and His Majesty’s vision for a harmonious future. As Gelephu Mindfulness City continues to take shape, this sacred stupa will remain a central symbol of peace, universal well-being, and the seamless coexistence of spiritual wisdom and modern aspirations. You can visit the major pilgrimage sites of GMC with the Bhutan Pilgrimage Package.
Enjoyed reading this blog?
