Gelephu Dzong, also known as Shambhala Dzong, is a large, iconic fortress and a Vajrayana Centre in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The fortress is inspired by Paro Rinpung Dzong, and will incorporate both traditional Bhutanese architecture and modern facilities. Zhung Dratshang (Central Monastic Body) of Bhutan is leading the project.
The Shambhala Dzong is envisioned to be a major Vajrayana training and exhibition center. It will be dedicated to preserving Bhutan’s living Buddhist heritage, its sacred arts, ritual practices, and spiritual knowledge.
Shambhala Dzong is one of three Royal projects, alongside Jarung Kashor Choeten and Guru Nangsi Zilnon Lhakhang. It will function both as an administrative and monastic center for Vajrayana Buddhist training and practice.
Location of Gelephu Dzong
Gelephu Dzong is situated at the base of Phulari under Samtenling, within the Gelephu Mindfulness City. Although the site was initially planned at the Phulari Viewpoint, it was relocated to the base of Phulari to accommodate a larger structure and address certain geological concerns.
Background of Gelephu Dzong
On 12 May 2025, His Majesty the King officially granted Royal Kashos (sacred Royal Edicts), recognizing eight spiritual projects under the Gelephu Mindfulness City. The ceremonial handover took place at Simtokha Dzong, where Gyalpoi Zimpon Dasho Ugyen Namgyel presented the Royal Kashos in a traditional ceremony.
Along with Gelephu Dzong, the projects that received the Royal Kashos include Tashi Gomang Chorten, Barchey Kuensel Chorten, Vajrakilaya Research Centre, Kurkulee Centre, Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling, Kangyur Labyrinth, and Gyenyen Nyekhang.
In addition, His Majesty also approved two Royal projects: the Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsid Zilnon Lhakhang, as well as a project by the Zhung Dratshang, the Tabab Chorten. The Gelephu Dzong is now named Shambhala Dzong.
Construction of Shambhala Dzong
With the relocation to a larger and more stable site, plans for Shambhala Dzong have expanded significantly. The new dzong is expected to be even larger than the original Rinpung Dzong, featuring additional structures and enhanced facilities. The project is being funded by the Zhung Dratshang, with an estimated budget of 1 billion Ngultrum.
On 17 November 2024, His Majesty graced the Sachu Bumter for Gelephu Dzong presided over by the Dorji Lopen of the Central Monastic Body.
A National Kurim, Duekhor Jinsed for the Salang Tendrel of Shambhala Dzong, was conducted by Dorji Lopen on 7 January 2026.
Gelephu Dzong
Gelephu Dzong is modeled after the original Paro Rinpung Dzong, while its interior design draws inspiration from Dungkar Dzong. Alongside traditional courtyards, temples, and monastic quarters, the dzong will incorporate modern amenities such as lifts, contemporary washrooms, seminar and conference halls, theaters, and a meditation center, ensuring both functionality and comfort without compromising Bhutanese architecture.
Conclusion
With this project now underway, Gelephu Dzong will become a spiritual landmark of the Gelephu Mindfulness City. The project reflects Bhutan’s spiritual heritage and His Majesty’s visionary guidance, one that brings together spiritual depth, cultural integrity, and modern aspirations in harmony. You can visit the major pilgrimage sites of GMC with the Bhutan Pilgrimage Package.
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