Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling (KDS) Shechen International Buddhist Academy is a visionary center for higher Buddhist education being established at Pelrithang under Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The project is the result of a shared vision of Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche and Her Royal Highness Princess Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck.
The academy will serve as a center of learning for students from Bhutan and around the world, providing a space to study and practice the timeless teachings of wisdom and compassion. It will integrate Buddhist philosophy and practice with modern academic learning, offering degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
Shechen International Buddhist Academy is one of the spiritual pillars of GMC.
Location of Kesang Do-ngak Shedrupling
Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling Shechen International Buddhist Academy will be constructed on approximately 30-40 acres of land at Pelrithang in Gelephu Gewog, under the Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Background of Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling
KDS Shechen International Buddhist Academy is one of the eight spiritual projects under the Gelephu Mindfulness City, officially approved by His Majesty the King on May 12, 2025. The Royal Edicts were ceremonially handed over at Simtokha Dzong by Gyalpoi Zimpon Dasho Ugyen Namgyel.
The other approved spiritual projects include:
- Gelephu Dzong (Shambhala Dzong)
- Tashi Gomang Chorten
- Barchey Kuensel Chorten
- Vajrakilaya Research Centre
- Kurkulee Centre
- Kangyur Labyrinth
- Gyenyen Nyekhang
Along with two Royal Projects, the Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsi Zilnon Lhakhang, and a Tabab Chorten by the Central Monastic Body, a total of 14 sacred projects are now taking shape in GMC.
History of Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling
On 21 June 2025, Her Royal Highness Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck graced the opening ceremony of the project office for the Kesang Do-ngag Shedrup Ling. Her Majesty Gyalyum Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck also generously offered Nu 10 lakhs in support of the academy.
The name of the Academy carries deep meaning:
- “Kesang,” honors Her Majesty the Royal Grandmother Gyalyum Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck.
- “Do-ngak” means “sutra and tantra” and refers to the terton name of Kyabje Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, Pema Osel Do-gnak Lingpa.
- “Shedrup” represents learning and accomplishment.
- “Ling” means “place.”
With the blessings and support of Her Majesty the Royal Grandmother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck and the spiritual guidance of Padma Do-ngag Lingpa, the academy honors the legacy and dharma activities of the great master Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche.
Construction of KDS Shechen International Buddhist Academy
The groundbreaking ceremony (Salhang Tendrel) was presided over by Shechen Rabjam Rinpoche Gyurme Chokyi Senge on November 8, 2025. Her Royal Highness Ashi Kesang Wangmo Wangchuck also graced the occasion. Khenpo Ngawang Jamtsho, executive member of the project, will oversee the project in the absence of Rinpoche.
The project is estimated to cost Nu 1.3 billion, with the main sponsor coming from Hong Kong. Funding will be released in phases. Construction is expected to be operationalin 2029, around the same time as the Gelephu International Airport is scheduled to open.
Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling (KDS) Shechen International Buddhist Academy
Kesang Do-ngak Shedrupling Shechen International Buddhist Academy is a large, sprawling complex, all interconnected by pathways, surrounded by greenery and mountain views.
The academy complex will include:
- Guru Lhakhang
- Ling Gesar Plaza
- Academy and administrative blocks,
- Seminar and convention halls
- Dining facilities
- Hostels for male and female students
- Staff residences and guest houses
- A library
- Sports facilities
The academy will initially accommodate up to 500 students from around the world, with plans for future expansion.
Academic Vision
The KDS Academy will offer advanced degrees in Buddhist studies, including master’s and doctoral programs. Students will study philosophy, epistemology, history, classical languages, and the translation of texts. The institute also plans to collaborate with international universities to secure academic accreditation.
By blending traditional Buddhist scholarship with contemporary knowledge, the academy seeks to cultivate future leaders and thinkers who can apply Buddhist wisdom to address modern social, cultural, and ethical challenges.
Conclusion
More than just an academic institution, Kesang Do-ngag Shedrupling will be a place of mindful practice, dedicated to preserving the Dharma and helping people progress on the path toward liberation from suffering. You can visit the major pilgrimage sites of GMC with the Bhutan Pilgrimage Package.
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