Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth is a single, unwavering path that circumambulates around the sacred 84,000 teachings of the Buddha, the Kangyur enshrined at its heart in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).
His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang Rinpoche envisioned the Kangyur labyrinth as a unique space for walking meditation and mindful contemplation.
Location of Kangyur Labyrinth
The Kangyur Labyrinth will be constructed on a 25-acre site in Pemathang, Gelephu Gewog, under the guidance of the GMC. There are also plans to expand the campus by an additional 15 acres, making the total area 40 acres in the future.
Background of Kangyur Labyrinth
Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth is one of the eight spiritual projects under the GMC, officially granted Royal Kashos (Edicts) by His Majesty the King on May 12, 2025. The royal handover took place at Simtokha Dzong, where Gyalpoi Zimpon Dasho Ugyen Namgyel presented the Edicts in a traditional ceremony.
The other spiritual projects that were officially granted Royal Edicts include:
- Gelephu Dzong (Shambhala Dzong)
- Dorden Tashi Gomang Chorten
- Barched Kuensel Chorten
- Vajrakilaya Research Centre
- Kurkulee Centre
- Kesang Do-Ngag Shedrupling
- Gyenyen Nyekhang
In addition to these, two Royal Projects, the Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsi Zilnon Lhakhang, as well as the Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang, are being established by the Central Monastic Body in GMC.
Construction of Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth
The Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth is being developed under the spiritual guidance of His Holiness Drikung Kyabgon Chetsang, the 7th reincarnation of the Chetsang Rinpoche, regarded as a manifestation of Avalokiteshvara (Chenrezig) and the 37th throne holder of the Drikung Kagyu Lineage.
The Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth will feature a traditional labyrinth with sacred Buddhist texts (Kangyur) engraved on stone slabs, alongside 108 traditional Bhutanese stupas.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held on 8 November 2025, presided over by the 11th Choeze Kuchen Rinpoche, Kunchok Thrinley Lhundup Namgyal.
The Labyrinth project is estimated to cost between $50 million and $100 million. The collective support of Drikung followers worldwide will provide funding.
Construction is expected to begin in the second week of January 2026 and is scheduled for completion by December 17, 2029. Development will be rolled out in phases, with the labyrinth built in the first phase, followed by the central hall, Rinpoche’s residence, an amphitheater, and supporting facilities.
Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth
Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth will be a sprawling Buddhist meditation complex, featuring a single-story, 40-foot-tall walking meditation center. The Drikung Kagyu tradition inspired the creation of the labyrinth. The labyrinth will include:
- A traditional labyrinth with one continuous path leading directly to the center.
- Engraved on stone slabs with sacred Buddhist texts (the Kangyur)
- 108 traditional Bhutanese stupas
- Meditation and training spaces
- Residential quarters
- Cafes and activity centres
- Guesthouses and dining facilities
The entire complex will be designed in the shape of a lotus flower, symbolizing purity, wisdom, and spiritual awakening. Unlike a maze, the labyrinth will feature a single, non-branching path symbolizing the journey toward enlightenment.
Opportunity for Sponsorship
Each engraved stone slab of the Kangyur and each of the 108 stupas will have a sponsorship option. These sponsorship options are available online, enabling people around the world to accumulate merit. You can visit the Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth Project website for more information.
Conclusion
With Drikung Kangyur Labyrinth now underway, Gelephu Mindfulness City continues to strengthen its spiritual foundation under the visionary guidance of His Majesty the King. This sacred structure represents more than architecture. It is a living testament to Bhutan’s commitment to mindfulness and spiritual well-being, offering pilgrims and visitors alike a transformative journey through contemplation and devotion. You can visit the major pilgrimage sites of GMC with the Bhutan Pilgrimage Package.
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