The kingdom of Bhutan is known for its commitment to happiness and well-being, and now it is taking this philosophy to the next level with the ambitious plan for the Gelephu Mindfulness City. This groundbreaking project aims to redefine how modern cities function and serve the needs of their residents. Spanning an area larger than Singapore, this 1,000-square-kilometer city will be a manifestation of Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness philosophy, prioritizing personal well-being alongside economic development.
Gelephu Mindfulness City is intended to be an economic hub and gateway for tourists visiting Bhutan. Located near the town of Gelephu, along Bhutan’s southern border with India, this city will serve as a bridge between the two countries. The project’s masterplan envisions a low- to mid-rise metropolis built around a series of inhabitable bridges, each housing key features of the city. These include a new international airport, a university, a healthcare facility, a hydroponic greenhouse, a cultural center, a spiritual center, a market for local goods, and even a hydroelectric dam.
Incorporating Nature and Tradition
One of the most striking aspects of the Gelephu Mindfulness City is its integration with nature and the local culture. The city will be designed with eleven ribbon-like neighborhoods, taking inspiration from the area’s 35 rivers and streams. These neighborhoods will be organized like mandalas, with repeated patterns that converge on a central public space. To preserve the natural environment and protect against flooding, paddy fields will be built along the rivers. These fields will not only serve as urban terraces but also act as biodiversity corridors for local flora and fauna, allowing migratory routes for elephants and other wildlife to remain undisturbed.
In line with its name, the Gelephu Mindfulness City will also be home to a spiritual center akin to Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest monastery. The Sankosh Temple-Dam will feature staircases leading to an elevated temple, providing a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection. This spiritual center, along with other key infrastructure and amenities, aims to foster an environment conducive to mindful living.
A Long-Term Vision
While construction has already begun on certain aspects of the city, such as a new international airport and a dry port, there is no set completion date for the entire project. The development will depend on the progress of business ventures and the organic growth of the city itself. The Mindfulness City SAR (Special Administrative Region) is envisioned as a long-term project that will continue to evolve and develop over the years.
The Gelephu Mindfulness City project joins the ranks of other visionary city plans, such as Saudi Arabia’s The Line. These projects demonstrate a departure from conventional urban planning and place a strong emphasis on sustainability, well-being, and a harmonious coexistence with nature. By reimagining how cities look and function, these initiatives pave the way for a future where human happiness and environmental stewardship take center stage.
In a world facing numerous urban challenges such as overpopulation and environmental degradation, the Gelephu Mindfulness City stands as a beacon of hope and innovation. Bhutan’s willingness to embrace forward-thinking ideas and its commitment to Gross National Happiness showcase its dedication to creating a better future for its citizens and the world at large. As the project continues to unfold, it will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for urban planners around the globe, encouraging them to prioritize the well-being and happiness of residents in their own cities.
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