Bhutan, widely recognized as one of the happiest nations globally, is embarking on a transformative project with the potential to set new standards in sustainable living. This ambitious venture, known as the “Mindfulness City,” is underway in Gelephu, a Special Administrative Region (SAR) in Bhutan. Spanning over 2,500 square kilometers, the region will function as a semi-autonomous zone, equipped with its own government, legal system, and judiciary, establishing it as an independent entity within Bhutan.
The project’s distinctiveness lies not just in its size but in its commitment to sustainability and harmonious living with nature. Gelephu Mindfulness City will incorporate two protected ecological zones: a national park and a wildlife sanctuary. These areas will house a network of rivers with renewable energy capacity, projected to generate between 4,000 and 5,000 megawatts of electricity. Additionally, the city will feature agricultural zones, small towns, extensive forests, and diverse wildlife, aligning with Bhutan’s dedication to environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck conceived this “Mindfulness City” to elevate the nation’s growth while preserving its values and resources. The king envisions a place where individuals from various backgrounds can live together in harmony with nature, fostering a multicultural yet ecologically focused society. Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay spoke at the NDTV World Summit in New Delhi, describing the project as “Gross National Happiness 2.0.” He shared, “This is what we call ‘Gross National Happiness 2.0,'” highlighting the city’s goal to enhance the well-being of Bhutanese people through a refined model of sustainable and mindful urban living.
Significantly, Gelephu is strategically situated near Bhutan’s border with Assam, India. The prime minister noted that the location choice is intended to strengthen ties with India, emphasizing that the city will “directly benefit India” in numerous ways. This proximity to India underscores Bhutan’s commitment to collaboration with its neighboring country. The Bhutanese Prime Minister added, “The King had one word for why Gelephu: ‘India’,” illustrating the visionary outlook for integrating Bhutan and India’s futures.
The choice of Gelephu, a biologically rich and pristine area, was not arbitrary. Initially, Prime Minister Tobgay questioned why the project wasn’t placed in Bhutan’s existing infrastructure hubs like Thimphu or Paro, where airports and highways already exist. In response, the king conveyed that Bhutan’s future is inseparably linked with India, explaining, “If we chose any other place, then such a project may succeed, it may have its challenges, but if we plan this along the border with India, the concept itself will drive it to success.” This statement underscores Bhutan’s strategy to develop a collaborative, cross-border vision with India through this groundbreaking city.
Once realized, the Mindfulness City will occupy nearly 2.5% of Bhutan’s total landmass, an area more expansive than the entire nation of Singapore. Comparatively, it will dwarf Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, which spans just 26 square kilometers, in contrast to Gelephu’s impressive 2,500 square kilometers. The city’s blueprint involves a series of “inhabitable bridges” that will link different areas, fostering a sense of interconnectedness across the region’s natural rivers and streams.
The architectural layout of Gelephu Mindfulness City aims for a low-rise skyline, emphasizing harmony with the surrounding landscape. The city will feature amenities typically found in modern urban centers, including a university, healthcare facilities offering both Western and traditional treatments, markets, and spiritual centers. The development will also see the construction of hydroelectric power plants and hydroponic greenhouses, further supporting Bhutan’s environmentally-conscious objectives.
The city will be divided into 11 key neighborhoods, spanning 35 rivers and streams, designed as mandalas with central public spaces, reinforcing the focus on community and inclusiveness. This design mirrors Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) philosophy, where personal well-being, community spirit, and environmental preservation outweigh mere economic considerations. This philosophy has garnered global recognition for its emphasis on a holistic approach to progress, prioritizing the quality of life over GDP growth alone. The kingdom has expressed that the city will prioritize “not just economic development, but personal well-being,” aiming to set a precedent for future urban planning worldwide.
Construction on an international airport in Gelephu has already commenced, setting the stage for the city’s integration into the global network while preserving its unique mindfulness-oriented character. The city aims to redefine modern living, demonstrating how future cities might function in balance with the environment while achieving a high standard of living and well-being for their residents.