Preparations for the raising of 108 Jangchub Chortens in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) on November 1 are intensifying, with authorities focusing on traffic management, public transport and safety measures ahead of an expected large gathering of devotees and visitors.
The Royal Bhutan Police (RBP) has estimated that more than 30,000 vehicles could be involved in transporting attendees to Gelephu. However, the figure does not represent actual vehicle registrations, and no separate registration is required for vehicles travelling to the event.
In a clarification requested by the organisers, media houses have been informed that registration applies only to attendees. The vehicle estimates were prepared by the RBP for traffic-planning purposes, based on the number of registered attendees and an assumption that each vehicle would carry an average of three people.
The clarification follows a report by Bhutan Broadcasting Service (BBS) stating that more than 30,000 vehicles had registered to travel to Gelephu, including around 22,000 expected to use Indian highways and more than 9,000 to travel from Thimphu through Tsirang. The figures should instead be understood as estimates of potential vehicle movement derived from attendee registrations.
With preparations continuing for the November 1 ceremony, traffic management remains a major priority for authorities, particularly given the anticipated movement of people from different parts of Bhutan and beyond.
According to the information provided by the RBP for the event, vehicle monitoring will begin on October 20. Portable automatic speed-detection systems, automatic number-plate recognition technology and body cameras are expected to support traffic enforcement and road safety during the period.
Authorities have also planned restrictions on private vehicles entering Gelephu town from November 1 to 4. To reduce congestion, approximately 100 buses and 1,500 taxis have been arranged to transport visitors between designated parking areas and the city.
The Gelephu border gate is scheduled to close on November 1, with entry arrangements limited to invited guests, Bhutanese nationals and friends of the Bhutan-India Friendship Association. Vehicles travelling from Gelephu towards Thimphu will also face restrictions on October 30 and 31.
Parking arrangements have been planned for visitors approaching from different directions. Travellers from Sarpang are expected to use the designated parking area at Tashiling, while those coming from Serzhung will park at Pelrithang. Visitors arriving from Umling and Taraythang will use the parking area near the nunnery below Norbuling Primary School. Shuttle and pick-up services are intended to connect these locations with the event area.
A camping site has also been designated behind the Gelephu Fishery Farm, with additional parking planned near the Gelephu sewage plant. A toll-free number, 108, is expected to provide information and assistance related to traffic, directions and safety throughout the programme.
BBS reported on October 9 that around 100,000 people are expected to attend the ceremony, with visitors anticipated from approximately 20 countries. The broadcaster also reported increased demand for accommodation, with many hotels, guesthouses and apartments already fully booked.
The gathering is centred on the raising of 108 Jangchub Chortens, or stupas of enlightenment, which carry deep significance in Bhutan’s Buddhist tradition. According to BBS, the structures symbolise the Buddha’s attainment of enlightenment and the overcoming of negative emotions.
The stupas are planned to stand 15 metres tall along the Mao River, spaced 108 metres apart. The project is intended to establish a lasting sacred landmark within Gelephu Mindfulness City.
Beyond the religious ceremony, the event is expected to bring together Bhutanese communities and international visitors. The increased movement of people may also create opportunities for transport operators, accommodation providers and other local businesses, although the extent of any longer-term economic benefits remains to be seen.
For now, ensuring public safety and orderly movement remains central to preparations. Authorities are urging travellers to observe traffic regulations, avoid speeding and follow official instructions on parking and transport. Those travelling on Indian highways have also been advised to wear seatbelts and carry Indian currency to pay applicable highway fees.
As November 1 approaches, accurate public information will be essential to helping visitors plan their journeys. The distinction between attendee registration and estimated vehicle numbers is particularly important, as the figures previously reported as vehicle registrations were projections for traffic planning, not a count of vehicles that had formally registered.
Cooperation among visitors, residents, transport operators and enforcement agencies will be critical to managing the anticipated gathering safely and ensuring that the raising of the 108 Jangchub Chortens proceeds smoothly.
