Tabab Chorten, also known as Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang, is a four-story stupa-temple symbolizing a spiritual gateway to the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The temple stands 53 feet tall just above the Gelephu Border Gate as one of the first spiritual projects of the GMC, initiated by the Central Monastic Body.
Historically, Tabab Chorten is a sacred place where travelers dismount their riding horses and walk as a sign of respect. Today, it stands as a monumental symbol, reminding visitors that they are entering Mindfulness City, one that commands respect and reverence.
Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang is one of the 14 spiritual sites being constructed in GMC.
Location of Tabab Chorten
Tabab Chorten (Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang) is in Namkhailing, just a few meters above the Gelephu Border Gate, serving as a spiritual entrance to Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Background of Tabab Chorten
Tabab Chorten is one of GMC’s first spiritual projects, along with Gelephu Chorten and Guru Nangsid Zilnon Lhakhang, the two Royal Projects, officially approved by His Majesty the King.
The name, Tabab, reflects an ancient custom in which travelers dismount their horses before entering sacred sites as a gesture of respect. Therefore, Tabab Chorten is envisioned as a traditional symbol of entrance to Mindfulness City, reminding all to pay respect and reverence.
Construction of Tabab Chorten
Construction of Tabab Chorten (Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang) began in June 2024, at a cost of Nu 300 M. It is built as a symbol of peace and Bhutanese heritage to mark the gateway to the historic Gelephu Mindfulness City. Ten De-suups trained in traditional stonemasonry were involved in constructing a conventional stone wall around the chorten, preserving age-old techniques and ensuring that the structure reflects Bhutan’s timeless architecture for visitors.
Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang
Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang is a 53-foot-tall four-story structure. The main relic of Tabab Chorten is an 18-foot statue of Ugyen Norlha, one of the 13th manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. Ugyen Norlha is believed to bring fortune, wealth, and other blessings to people. Tshering Che Nga, Norlha Den Nga, and other wealth deities accompany the main statue.
The temple also houses thousands of sacred Tongkus, statues of 25 different deities, crafted by a family and volunteers in Thimphu over eight months.
Conclusion
Tabab Chorten is expected to open to visitors soon. More than just a monument, Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang stands as the spiritual gateway to Gelephu Mindfulness City, a symbol of Bhutanese culture, peace, and heritage. It marks the beginning of a series of spiritual projects, solidifying Gelephu Mindfulness City’s foundation in spiritual heritage and His Majesty’s visionary guidance. You can visit the major pilgrimage sites of GMC with the Bhutan Pilgrimage Package.
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