Gelephu Maitreya Temple is a sacred Jamba Lhakhang dedicated to Maitreya, the future Buddha. Built in the visionary landscape of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), this temple symbolises compassion and the promise of future enlightenment. His Eminence Trulku Kunga Tenzin conceived the temple.
The Maitreya Temple is not only a physical site but also a sacred mandala of compassion, longevity, prosperity, and liberation designed to serve both present and future generations.
It is one of the 22 spiritual projects approved in GMC.
Location of Gelephu Maitreya Temple
Gelephu Maitreya Temple is being built in Tashiphug under Serzhong Gewog, within GMC.
Background of the Maitreya Temple
Gelephu Maitreya Temple is one of the three new spiritual projects approved by His Majesty the King on 16 October 2025. The Secretary of Dratshang Lhentshog, Dasho Zangla Namgyel, formally handed over the Royal Kashos (Royal edicts) at Changangkha Lhakhang.
The other two approved projects are:
- Druk Ugyen Samye Ling, under the patronage of Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche
- Tara Retreat Center, led by Leytshog Lopen Sangay Dorji under the Bhutan Tara Foundation.
These new initiatives are in addition to the eight spiritual projects approved earlier for GMC. Among them are two Royal Projects, the Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsid Zilnon Lhakhang, along with the Ugyen Norlha Chorten, initiated by the Central Monastic Body.
Construction of Gelephu Maitreya Temple
His Eminence Trulku Kunga Tenzin envisioned the Gelephu Maitreya Temple as a sacred site of the future Buddha, where the power of great compassion, great vows, and the supreme blessings of Maitreya Buddha converge. It is a symbol of hope and peace for the whole world, where the yearning for reconciliation and liberation is sown with awakened awareness and blossoms.
The key milestones of the sacred project include:
- Official registration as a Public Limited Company by Guarantee on 20 January 2026 under the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority.
- Site visit by project representatives to Serzhong on 26 January 2026.
- Inaugural Board Meeting held on 7 March 2026.
- Her Majesty Queen Mother Tseyring Pem Wangchuck graced the Salhang Tendrel ceremony on 14 March 2026.
The ceremony was held at 11:11 AM to mark the 70th birthday of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo.
Gelephu Maitreya Temple
Gelephu Maitreya Temple is designed as a circular sacred mandala, with concentric layers symbolising Buddhist cosmology. The Complex consists of Four Main Halls:
- Maitreya Temple (Jamba Lhakhang)
The main temple in the centre will house a Buddha Maitreya Statue standing at 35 to 40 feet, surrounded by a thousand smaller Buddha Maitreya statues.
- Temple of longevity (Tse Lha Nam Sum Lhakhang)
The temple will be dedicated to Buddha Amitabha for longevity.
- Abode of Amitabha (Yoed Par Med gi Zhingki)
The sacred space dedicated to the pure land Buddhas
- Temple of Prosperity (Norlha Lhakhang)
The temple is dedicated to Ugyen Norlha, the manifestation of the prosperity of Guru Rinpoche.
At the four corners of the main temple are the stupas of the four noble truths. Encircling the entire complex are the Twelve Deeds of Buddha with pathways for kora. There are also a library and hostels along the outer ring. For more details, visit the official website of Gelephu Maitreya Temple.
Conclusion
With this project now underway, Gelephu Maitreya Temple in the Gelephu Mindfulness City will stand as a lasting symbol of Bhutan’s devotion to enlightenment, fulfilling the far-sighted visions of His Majesty the King in nurturing peace, wisdom, and compassion for future generations. You can visit the major pilgrimage sites of the Gelephu Mindfulness City with the Bhutan Pilgrimage Package.
What is Gelephu Maitreya Temple?
Gelephu Maitreya Temple is a sacred Buddhist temple dedicated to Maitreya Buddha (Future Buddha). It is envisioned as a major spiritual landmark in Gelephu, Bhutan, symbolizing peace, compassion, and future enlightenment.
Where is Gelephu Maitreya Temple located?
The temple is located in Gelephu, southern Bhutan, a key gateway town near the Bhutan–India border. It is part of the developing Gelephu Mindfulness City vision.
Why is the Maitreya Buddha important?
Maitreya Buddha represents the future Buddha who will appear on Earth to restore dharma. Worshipping Maitreya symbolizes hope, compassion, and the continuation of Buddhist teachings.
What is special about Gelephu Maitreya Temple?
The temple is expected to become:
A major pilgrimage site in southern Bhutan
A center for meditation and spiritual practice
A symbol of peace aligned with Bhutan’s mindfulness vision
Can tourists visit Gelephu Maitreya Temple?
Yes, visitors can generally visit the temple area, but access may depend on construction status, religious events, and local permissions. It is recommended to check with local guides or travel operators in advance.
What is the best time to visit Gelephu Maitreya Temple?
The best time to visit Gelephu is during spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) when the weather is pleasant, and travel conditions are stable.
Is Gelephu Maitreya Temple part of Gelephu Mindfulness City?
Yes, the temple aligns with the broader vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), which aims to integrate spirituality, sustainability, and cultural heritage.
Why should pilgrims visit this temple?
Pilgrims visit Gelephu Maitreya Temple to:
Receive blessings of Maitreya Buddha
Experience peace and meditation
Connect with Bhutan’s living Buddhist traditions
