A look at Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) Special Administrative Region (SAR), Bhutan’s autonomous city blending mindfulness, innovation, global commerce, and community values, with a detailed timeline of its milestones from inception to development.
Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) Special Administrative Region (SAR) represents a bold vision of Bhutan’s future, combining Bhutanese spiritual and cultural values with modern governance, innovation, and global commerce. Established under a Royal Charter, GMC is designed to be a hub of mindfulness, economic growth, and administrative reform. It operates under a “One Country, Two Systems” framework, offering a unique platform to adopt global best practices while preserving national identity.
The development of GMC unfolds in phases, beginning with core infrastructure and essential services and gradually evolving into a vibrant, values-driven community. GMC aims to attract both residents and international investment, establishing itself as a global destination for mindful living and business innovation.
Timeline of Milestones in GMC Development
17 December 2023 – A Vision Unveiled
On Bhutan’s 116th National Day, His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck announced the creation of Gelephu Mindfulness City, a Special Administrative Region rooted in Bhutanese values. This announcement marked the start of a transformative initiative blending mindfulness, community, and economic dynamism.
23 December 2023 – Salhang Tendrel Ceremony for the Airport
His Majesty The King and His Holiness the Je Khenpo presided over the Salhang Tendrel ceremony for GMC’s future airport, symbolizing the city’s commitment to connectivity and progress.
10 February 2024 – The Royal Charter
Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck received the Royal Charter establishing GMC as a Special Administrative Region at the sacred Machhen Lhakhang. This act linked Bhutan’s historical legacy to its forward-looking transformation, setting the legal foundation for the city’s governance and development.
1 October 2024 – Appointment of GMC Board of Directors
His Majesty appointed CEO Mun Leong Liew along with Board members Joichi “Joi” Ito, Yee Ean Pang, Seow Hiang Lee, Arun Kapur, and Lauren Chung. This team was tasked with leading GMC’s strategic vision and operational framework.
4 October 2024 – Appointment of GMC Governor
The GMC Board of Directors appointed Dasho Dr. Lotay Tshering as Governor, responsible for overseeing domestic operations, coordinating with Bhutan’s Royal Government, and implementing GMC’s strategic roadmap.
16 November 2024 – An Auspicious Occasion
The Salhang Tendrel ceremony for the Gelephu Chorten was held. Modeled on the Jarung Khashor Stupa in Kathmandu, the stupa symbolizes GMC’s spiritual aspirations and commitment to mindfulness.
17 December 2024 – Diamond Strategy Introduced
On Bhutan’s 117th National Day, His Majesty presented the Diamond Strategy, a 20-year roadmap guiding GMC’s development under a “One Country, Two Systems” approach, blending mindfulness, innovation, and economic growth.
25 December 2024 – Granting of Law No. 1
His Majesty granted GMC Law No. 1 at Punakha Dzong, formalizing GMC’s governance and building upon the Royal Charter granted earlier in February. This law paved the way for the city’s structured growth and administrative autonomy.
7 March 2025 – Master Planning in Motion
Detailed master planning commenced for Gelephu East and West, outlining regenerative urban design, development zones, and sustainable infrastructure strategies.
30 April 2025 – Launch of Nation Building Bond
Through the GMC National Building Bond (GNBB), over 35,000 Bhutanese invested, raising Nu. 3.347 billion to support GMC’s initial development projects, emphasizing community ownership and participation.
12 May 2025 – Granting of Royal Edicts for Spiritual Projects
Eight spiritual projects under the GMC Authority (GMCA) were granted Royal Edicts, formalizing the city’s spiritual foundations and linking development with Bhutanese cultural and religious heritage.
8 July 2025 – Construction Work Commences
The construction of Gelephu International Airport officially began, with Their Majesties leading the ceremony alongside government officials, Desuup volunteers, and local communities. This milestone marked the start of key infrastructure development.
29 August 2025 – Launch of New GMCA Office
The Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority inaugurated its new office in Thimphu, complete with a Lhabsang purification ceremony, signaling the operational readiness of GMC’s administrative framework.
24 September 2025 – New Board Appointments
His Majesty appointed three Bhutanese leaders—Dechen Dorji, Sonam Choden, and Jigdrel Singay—to the GMC Board of Directors, strengthening local leadership representation in the city’s governance.
5 November 2025 – Appointment of Co-CEOs
Mr. Lee Seow Hiang and Mr. Pang Yee Ean were appointed co-CEOs, replacing Mr. Liew Mun Leong, to oversee GMC’s ongoing strategy execution and operational management.
Phased Development and Future Outlook
GMC’s development follows a phased approach:
Phase 1 – Core Infrastructure: Building essential services, airport, administrative offices, and utility systems.
Phase 2 – Community and Spiritual Integration: Constructing cultural landmarks, religious structures, and residential zones.
Phase 3 – Economic Activation: Establishing business districts, financial services, and investment hubs.
Phase 4 – Global Destination: Positioning GMC as a model city for mindfulness, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Over time, GMC is expected to attract a growing population, draw international investors, and serve as a blueprint for Bhutan’s national development under the Diamond Strategy.
Gelephu Mindfulness City represents a historic vision for Bhutan—a city where mindfulness, culture, and innovation converge. Through careful planning, phased development, and strategic governance, GMC is set to become a global destination for mindful living and business excellence, showcasing Bhutan as a leader in sustainable and values-driven urban development.
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