Gelephu Mindfulness city

Tour highlights:

Bhutan is globally admired as the world’s only carbon-negative nation and a strong advocate of Gross National Happiness. With 70% of its land covered in lush forest, Bhutan stands as one of the planet’s last true biodiversity hotspots. Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), covering more than 1,000 sq. km, represents a bold step into sustainable and mindful urban development.

On 17 December 2023, during the 116th National Day of Bhutan, His Majesty the 5th King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck unveiled a visionary plan to transform Bhutan into South Asia’s emerging economic hub. Central to this vision is the creation of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region (SAR)—a future-ready zone designed to attract investment in green energy, digital and physical connectivity, and innovative education.

Bhutan is already renowned for its pristine nature, spirituality, and cultural richness. The SAR elevates this further as the world’s first Modern Buddhist Lifestyle Destination, specializing in mindfulness, wellness, spirituality, and holistic rejuvenation. Nestled between the Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Royal Manas National Park, GMC serves as a gateway to Bhutan’s deepest natural wonders.

On 3 November 2025, Gelephu Mindfulness City was honored as a WINNER of the 2025 Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction Award, one of the world’s most prestigious accolades for sustainable design.

Gelephu International Airport Project

The new Gelephu International Airport, currently under construction, is expected to open in December 2029. Designed by the acclaimed Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), the terminal features mindful architecture inspired by Bhutanese craftsmanship, natural materials, and wellness-centered spaces.

Bhutan currently operates a domestic airport in Samtenling Gewog, Sarpang District—about 3 km from Gelephu—which should not be confused with the new international airport.

Reaching Royal Manas National Park with GMC Bhutan

(A) Traveling by Air

The nearest airport to Royal Manas National Park is Gelephu’s domestic airport. International travelers must first land at Paro International Airport, then continue to Gelephu via domestic flight. GMC Bhutan assists with arranging these connections.

(B) Traveling by Road

Once in Gelephu, travelers can reach Royal Manas National Park by road. GMC Bhutan provides private transfers and guided transport services for a smooth journey.

(C) Traveling from India

Indian travelers can access the park easily. The closest Indian town, Bongaigaon in Assam, connects to Bhutan through the Gelephu border. GMC Bhutan assists with the required permits and seamless border entry.

Important Travel Considerations

Passports should have at least 6 months validity.
International visitors (except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals) must secure their visa through GMC Bhutan to enter the country.
The best time to visit Royal Manas National Park varies depending on interests—wildlife, nature, or climate preferences.
As Bhutan supports responsible tourism, travelers should follow local customs and environmental guidelines.

Top 8 tourist attraction in Gelephu

1. Gelephu Tshachu (Gelephu Hot Spring Water): 25 min (14.0 km) via Trongsa-Gelephu Hwy

Gelephu Tshachu is A hot spring known for its healing properties, located about 15 km from the town. Gelephu Tshachu is a famous hot spring located in the subtropical town of Gelephu, in the Sarpang District of Bhutan. Known for its therapeutic properties, the hot springs are a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking relief from various ailments and a unique relaxation experience. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the hot springs are surrounded by lush vegetation and the rich biodiversity of Bhutan. The site has several pools with different temperatures, allowing visitors to choose according to their preference. These natural springs are believed to have healing powers because of the mineral-rich waters. Beyond its health benefits, Gelephu Tshachu also offers a serene and scenic environment, where visitors are embraced by the sounds of nature and the gentle flow of the river nearby. While the area is relatively undeveloped compared to other tourist spots, its rustic charm contributes to a more authentic and immersive experience of rural Bhutanese life.

2. Threma Lhakhang (2 hr 37 min (87.8 km) via Sarpang-Gelephu-Trongsa Hwy and Sarpang-Tsirang Hwy)

Threma Lhakhang is a sacred Buddhist temple located in the serene town of Gelephu in Bhutan. Situated amid the lush subtropical climate of southern Bhutan, the temple represents the spiritual heritage and architectural marvel of Bhutanese culture. It is a place of worship and meditation, frequented by the spiritual community and visitors seeking tranquility. The lhakhang, meaning temple or monastery in Dzongkha, the national language of Bhutan, is adorned with traditional colorful Bhutanese designs, intricate paintings, and sculptures depicting various aspects of Buddhist philosophy. The environment is peaceful, and the temple often resonates with the sounds of prayers and ceremonial music. Locals visit the temple to pray and receive blessings, and it is also a site for important religious festivals and rituals. The surrounding area is characterized by its natural beauty, with nearby forests and the backdrop of the Bhutanese Himalayas, providing a stunning setting for both pilgrims and tourists.

3. Nyimalung Dratsang (3 min (1.2 km) via Muensel Lam NE and Pema Lam NE)

A prominent monastery in the region. Nyimalung Tratsang is a renowned Buddhist monastery situated in the fertile valley of Gelephu, Bhutan. Sitting amidst the scenic backdrop of the Himalayas, this place of worship and learning attracts visitors and pilgrims from all corners seeking spiritual solace and cultural insight. Established with a vision to propagate the teachings of the Buddha, Nyimalung Tratsang serves as a center for religious education, meditation, and monastic living. It is known for its serene ambiance and its architecture that exemplifies typical Bhutanese style, with intricately painted woodwork and carved details. The monastery is also famous for its annual festivals, particularly the ‘Tshechu’ where monks don intricate masks and perform religious dances. The significance of Nyimalung Tratsang lies not only in its spiritual activities but also in its role in preserving the unique traditions and heritage of Bhutanese Buddhism. Surrounded by lush greenery and the simplicity of Gelephu’s lifestyle, the monastery offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking to delve into the depths of mindfulness and compassion advocated by Buddhism.

4. Toorsa Reserve (approximately 93.5 km from Gelephu town)

Toorsa Reserve in Gelephu, Bhutan is a serene wildlife sanctuary situated in the southern part of the country, adjacent to the Indian border. The reserve is a part of the larger Royal Manas National Park eco-complex, which is one of the oldest protected areas in Bhutan. Encompassing diverse ecosystems, the Toorsa Reserve boasts a rich biodiversity, including subtropical forests, riverine habitats, and grasslands. This area is crucial for the conservation of many species, some of which are endemic to the region. Visitors to the reserve can immerse themselves in nature’s tranquility, observing various wildlife such as elephants, tigers, and an array of bird species. Gelephu, the nearest town, serves as a gateway to the reserve, providing access and amenities to tourists. The unique blend of Bhutanese culture and natural beauty makes Toorsa Reserve an enchanting place for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors are encouraged to engage with local guides who can enrich the experience with their knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna.

5. Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (7 hr 2 min (217.7 km) via Sarpang-Tsirang Hwy)

Located in the southern plains, this sanctuary is another significant area for wildlife and nature.

Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area located in the southern part of Bhutan, near the town of Gelephu. It covers about 269 square kilometers and is renowned for its unique ecosystem that includes tropical and subtropical forests. The sanctuary is particularly famous for housing the country’s remaining natural sal (Shorea robusta) forests and for being home to diverse fauna, including rare and endangered species such as the Royal Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and the spotted deer. It is a vital habitat in Bhutan for elephants and holds the distinction of being the only area in the country where chital (Axis axis) are found. The sanctuary also supports an array of other wildlife such as leopards, various species of monkeys, and numerous bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary is integral to the conservation of these species and plays a crucial role in Bhutan’s rich biodiversity.

6. Tsirang Dzongkhang ) (3.5 hours from Gelephu Town )

Tsirang Dzongkhag is 104 km from Gelephu. There are thousands of beautiful villages full of green paddy fields and a place where our southern Bhutanese reside. There we have a Dzong (fortress) situated in the town of Damphu in Tsirang District, Bhutan. The Dzong serves as the administrative and monastic center for the district. It exemplifies traditional Bhutanese architecture with intricately carved wooden windows and doors and a distinctive combination of whitewashed stone walls topped with a red ochre frieze. The interior of the fortress-like structure is adorned with religious artifacts and the murals illustrating Buddhist lore. Surrounded by lush green hills and terraced fields, the Dzong is perched prominently on a ridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Tsirang Dzong is not only significant as an administrative hub but also plays a central role in the cultural and spiritual life of the locality. Visitors to Tsirang Dzong can experience the serene environment and might have the opportunity to attend one of the many religious festivals that occur throughout the year. Its location in the subtropical belt of Bhutan ensures a temperate climate, suitable for agriculture, which is the mainstay of the local economy.

7. Bhutan Centennial Distillery ( 14 min (8.0 km) via Sarpang - Gelephu - Trongsa Hwy)

Bhutan Centennial Distillery is situated in the town of Gelephu, in the southern part of Bhutan. This distillery is notable for producing a range of alcoholic beverages, including traditional Bhutanese spirits, which are an integral part of the local culture. These spirits are often made using unique blends of indigenous herbs and grains, reflecting the country’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. The environment around the distillery is picturesque, surrounded by lush greenery characteristic of Bhutan’s subtropical climate. Gelephu itself is a thriving commercial center, acting as a gateway between Bhutan and India due to its proximity to the border. The Bhutan Centennial Distillery is a modern establishment that incorporates both traditional Bhutanese methods and contemporary distilling techniques, making it a testament to the country’s ability to balance preservation of tradition with modernization. Visitors to the distillery can learn about the production processes, from fermentation to bottling, and the significance of these spirits in Bhutanese society. Tastings may be offered to those interested in experiencing the flavors firsthand

8. Royal Manas National Park (106 km from the Gelephu border gate to the park, which takes about 3 to 4 hours)

Bhutan’s oldest national park, offering diverse wildlife and nature viewing opportunities. Royal Manas National Park, located in Gelephu, Bhutan, is a conservation triumph. Established in 1966, it is Bhutan’s oldest national park, covering over 1,057 square kilometers of tropical and subtropical ecosystems. This park is recognized for its rich biodiversity, harboring an impressive range of species, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, and the rare golden langur. The park’s lush forests include tropical monsoon forests at lower altitudes, changing to subtropical forests as one ascends, and then to temperate types as one reaches the higher elevations. Royal Manas is integral to Bhutan’s conservation efforts; it is part of a larger network of protected areas that are contributing to the preservation of flora and fauna in the Eastern Himalayas. The park offers visitors a variety of experiences, from thrilling wildlife sightings to cultural interactions with the local communities who sustain their traditional lifestyles while coexisting with the rich natural heritage. Excursions such as river rafting, bird watching, and jungle safaris are popular. Moreover, the park has a symbiotic relationship with India’s Manas Tiger Reserve, creating a transboundary conservation area.

Best Time to Visit Royal Manas National Park, Gelephu, Bhutan

Visiting Royal Manas National Park in Gelephu offers an incredible chance to explore one of Bhutan’s richest biodiversity hotspots. According to GMC Bhutan, the best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is dry, pleasant, and ideal for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes. These months provide excellent conditions for wildlife viewing and comfortable trekking. It is also the peak season for birdwatching, as numerous migratory species arrive, adding to the park’s already impressive avian diversity.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more serene experience with fewer crowds and are willing to endure a bit of unpredictability in weather, the months of April and May can be an excellent alternative. In this period, the park is awash with vibrant blooms including the famous rhododendrons of Bhutan, adding a burst of color to the lush green backdrop. However, be aware that late spring and summer often usher in the monsoon season, and the park receives heavy rainfall from June to August, which can lead to muddy trails and accessibility issues. Whatever time you choose, ensure you cater for abrupt weather changes and pack accordingly for unpredictable mountain climates

Explore, Connect, and Conquer with Trip Festivals Of Bhutan

Best Bhutan Holiday Packages

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Hot stone bath.
Cycling around Paro Valley.
Practice archery.
Bhutanese cooking class.
Bhutanese cultural show featuring various mask dances and folk dances.
Talk on Gross National Happiness/Buddhism.
Consulting an astrologer.
Practice dart.
Performing a religious ceremony.
Marriage ceremonies.

Please contact Ms. Shiva for the price. (WHATSAPP AT +97517685791