The event has drawn the highest echelons of the Buddhist world, led by His Holiness the Je Khenpo, the spiritual head of Bhutan, whose presence has lent the project an air of deep sanctity. The gathering has also attracted high-level political attention, with the Prime Minister of Thailand among the distinguished guests.

Je Khenpo Holds Sacred Audience with Gaden Tripa



In an auspicious development ahead of the main event, His Holiness the Je Khenpo today held a sacred meeting with the Gaden Tripa, Jetsun Lobsang Dorjee Pelsangpo, at the Tali Dratshang in Gelephu Mindfulness City. The meeting between the heads of Bhutan's Drukpa tradition and the Gelug school's highest throne, the Gaden Tripa being the senior-most hierarch of the Gelug lineage, was described by observers as a symbol of Buddhist unity and mutual reverence.

Gyalwang Karmapa Arrives for Consecration



His Holiness the Gyalwang Karmapa, Ogyen Trinley Dorje, has arrived in Bhutan to participate in the raising and consecration of the 108 Jangchub Chortens. The arrival of the head of the Karma Kagyu lineage marks a historic moment for the kingdom, and his participation underscores the pan-tradition character of Project 108.

Nyingma Masters Offer Prayers at Shechen Site



At the Shechen Gelephu KDS site today, Kyabje Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, Kyabje Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche, and Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche graced the occasion at the invitation of Rabjam Rinpoche, offering sacred prayers and auspicious aspirations for the success of the project. The gathering of such revered Nyingma masters, including the revered Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, one of the most influential Buddhist teachers of the modern age, added a deep spiritual dimension to the preparations.

Thai Prime Minister to Attend Project 108

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is visiting Bhutan from October 30 to November 1, 2026, to participate in Project 108 and strengthen bilateral relations between the two Buddhist nations.



On November 1, 2026, Prime Minister Anutin will travel to Gelephu Mindfulness City to take part in Project 108, a royal initiative by the King of Bhutan to construct and complete 108 Jangchub Chortens in a single coordinated day. The event marks the symbolic beginning and development of the new economic and mindfulness city in Gelephu.

The Thai leader's itinerary includes cultural and religious visits in Thimphu, including the National Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Dordenma statue, and the National Museum of Bhutan, as well as bilateral talks, the signing of three cooperation documents, and an audience with the King and Queen of Bhutan.

Jet Li to Join Historic Gathering

Adding a global dimension to the event, international film icon, martial artist, and humanitarian Jet Li will be in Gelephu Mindfulness City from November 1–4, joining the historic gathering for Project 108.



Known around the world for his legendary martial arts films, Jet Li's journey extends beyond cinema. His interest in Buddhist philosophy and spiritual practice reflects a quieter side of a life lived in the public eye. His presence this November, alongside people from Bhutan and around the world, signals a moment that reaches beyond borders, bringing together faith, culture, and a shared aspiration for peace and the well-being of all beings.

A Convergence of Traditions

Project 108 has brought together an unprecedented spectrum of Buddhist lineages, Drukpa, Gelug, Kagyu, and Nyingma, alongside international figures and state leaders, in a display of harmony rarely witnessed on such a scale.

From the Je Khenpo and the Gaden Tripa to the Gyalwang Karmapa and the great Nyingma masters, and from the Thai Prime Minister to a global cinema icon, the event stands as a testament to Bhutan's role as a global heartland of Buddhist practice.

As the 108 chortens rise along the Mau Chhu, they will stand not only as monuments of devotion but as markers of a moment when the world's Buddhist traditions, and the world beyond, came together in Gelephu for peace.

The Significance of the 108 Stupas at Gelephu Mindfulness City

At the heart of Project 108 lies a triply auspicious convergence of sacred events. The gathering celebrates 18 Years of Majesty, a milestone honoring the reign of His Majesty the King, while simultaneously raising 108 Jangchub Chortens, each stupa a monument to enlightenment and a prayer for the peace and well-being of all beings. These sacred structures rise during the hallowed observance of the Descending of Lord Buddha from Tusita Heaven, the celestial descent of the Buddha to the human realm, a moment of profound spiritual significance in the Buddhist calendar.

Together, these three sacred events imbue the chortens along the Mau Chhu with a significance that reaches far beyond their earthly form - embodying royalty, enlightenment, and divine grace in a single, coordinated act of devotion.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to our portal for continued coverage of Project 108 from Gelephu Mindfulness City.