Ugyen Norlha Chorten, formerly known as Tabab Chorten, is a four-story stupa-temple dedicated to Ugyen Norlha, the manifestation of prosperity of Guru Rinpoche, that symbolizes a spiritual gateway to the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC). The stupa stands 53 feet tall, 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 Chorten is one of the 22 spiritual sites being constructed in GMC.
Location of Ugyen Norlha Chorten
Ugyen Norlha Chorten 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
Ugyen Norlha Chorten was first conceived as Tabab Chorten by the Central Monastic Body. It 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 entry into Mindfulness City, reminding all to pay their respects and show reverence.
Construction of Ugyen Norlha Chorten
Construction of Tabab Chorten 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. The chorten was later named Ugyen Norlha Chorten.
On 21 February, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar, His Majesty the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema, Their Majesties the Queen Mothers, and Members of the Royal Family graced the consecration of the Ugyen Norlha Chorten in GMC. His Holiness the Je Khenpo and the dratshang (central monk body) performed the rabney (consecration) ceremony.
Built to commemorate the birth of Her Royal Highness Gyalsem Sonam Yangden Wangchuck, the Chorten stands as a symbol of auspicious beginnings and embodies the vision and aspirations of GMC.
Ugyen Norlha Lhakhang
Ugyen Norlha Chorten 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 chorten’s architecture reflects spirituality in all directions. The southern wall features various forms of Dzambhala, the protector of enlightened wealth, offering continued blessings for the City. Above them are depictions of Buddha Jampa Gonpo (Maitreya) and Choeje Tsangpa Garey, a founder of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage. On the northern wall, the Five Sister Deities of longevity and prosperity, known as Tshering Che Nga, appear alongside Buddha Shakyamuni and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the unifier of Bhutan as a nation-state.
Near the main entrance, sculptures of the Four Great Kings stand alongside Lord Ganesh, Lhamo (Parvati), Lhamo Norjunma, the Goddess of Fortune, and Drolma (Tara), enriching the chorten’s protective and auspicious presence. The exterior walls display 34 images of each of the Buddha, Guru Rinpoche, Tara, and Zhabdrung, oriented along the cardinal directions. Together, they symbolise the wisdom, compassion, and collective merit that underpin the creation of Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Within its walls is the Sid-Dhok Chorten, a structure dedicated to pacifying obstacles and ensuring harmony. Sacred Buddhist texts, including the Kangyur, Tengyur, and the teachings of enlightened masters, are preserved here as inner relics that deepen the monument’s sanctity.
The top floor is a realm of devoted presence, housing 1,000 statues each of Guru Rinpoche, Tara (Drolma), Thangtong Gyalpo, the Three Deities of Long Life (Tse Lha Nam Sum), Medicine Buddha (Sangay Menlha), Vajrapani (Chana Dorji), Avalokitesvara (Chenrigzi), Vajrasattva (Dorji Sempa), and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel.
Conclusion
Ugyen Norlha Chorten is open to visitors. More than just a monument, Ugyen Norlha Chorten 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ugyen Norlha Chorten?
Ugyen Norlha Chorten is one of the first completed spiritual projects in Gelephu Mindfulness City. It symbolises peace, prosperity, Bhutanese heritage, and the sacred character of GMC.
Where is it located?
The chorten is located at Namkhailing, a short distance above the Gelephu border gate from India. Its position allows visitors entering GMC to see it as one of the city’s first spiritual landmarks.
What was its former name?
It was originally called Tabab Chorten and was later renamed Ugyen Norlha Chorten. The word Tabab refers to the traditional practice of travellers dismounting before approaching a sacred site.
Who is Ugyen Norlha?
Ugyen Norlha is regarded in Bhutanese Buddhist tradition as a manifestation of Guru Rinpoche associated with prosperity and wealth. The chorten’s principal sacred figure is Ugyen Norlha, accompanied by Khandro Yeshey Tshogyal and Mendarawa.
How tall is the chorten?
The chorten is approximately 53 feet tall, rising to about the height of a four-storey building.
When was it consecrated?
The chorten was consecrated on 21 February 2026 by His Holiness the Je Khenpo and the Central Monastic Body. The ceremony was attended by Their Majesties, members of the Royal Family and other guests.
Why was it built?
The chorten was built as:
A spiritual welcome for people entering GMC.
A place for blessings, prayer and reflection.
A symbol of Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage.
A foundation for GMC’s vision as a global centre for Vajrayana Buddhism.
A commemoration of the birth of Her Royal Highness Gyalsem Sonam Yangden Wangchuck.
Can tourists and pilgrims visit it?
The chorten is intended to welcome devotees and visitors, and local devotees have already begun visiting it. However, pilgrims should follow site instructions regarding opening hours, ceremonies, photography and access to the interior.
As with any sacred Buddhist site, visitors should dress respectfully, maintain silence, walk clockwise around the chorten and avoid touching statues or religious objects without permission.
