Bhutan’s Vision for the Future Takes Off with Gelephu Airport Groundbreaking

On 8 July 2025, His Majesty King Jigme and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun, accompanied by Their Royal Highnesses Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel and Gyalsey Ugyen Wangchuck, attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the Gelephu International Airport (GIA). This momentous occasion marked the beginning of a transformative national project aligned with Bhutan’s long-term development vision.

Their presence elevated the ceremony’s spiritual and national significance, setting the tone for a project guided by foresight, purpose, and deep cultural values.

Reviving the Spirit of Zhabtog

In a powerful show of unity and service, more than a thousand Desuup and Gyalsup volunteers gathered to offer zhabtog—Bhutan’s cherished tradition of voluntary community service. This time-honoured practice has shaped the nation through the collective building of sacred monuments, homes, and essential infrastructure.

The event also brought together the Prime Minister, senior government officials, members of the Gelephu Mindfulness City, clergy from the Zhung Dratshang including Lams and Trulkus, and members of the local community. Prayers began at dawn, led by the Dorji Lopen, to bless the land and sanctify the undertaking.

A Moment of National Purpose

The ceremony reflected more than the start of a construction project—it was a declaration of national intent. The airport represents a means for future generations to access opportunity, prosperity, and the tools to continue Bhutan’s journey with clarity and intention.

Far from being a mere transport hub, the airport stands as a symbol of Bhutanese resilience, collective effort, and mindful progress that will support economic, social, and spiritual well-being for years to come.

Foundation of Gelephu Mindfulness City

The Gelephu International Airport is the first major infrastructure project under the Gelephu Mindfulness City initiative. Envisioned as a hub of holistic development and innovative living, the Mindfulness City reflects Bhutan’s unique approach to progress—centred on human wellbeing, sustainability, and cultural integrity.

Set to be completed by 2029, the airport will span four square kilometres across the Paitha River. It will feature a 3,000-metre CAT I Code 4E runway designed to accommodate aircraft such as Airbus A321 and Boeing 737, with future expansion planned for wide-body planes. Initial passenger capacity will reach 1.3 million annually, with provisions to scale up to over 5.5 million.

Design Inspired by Bhutan’s Natural Heritage

The terminal design takes inspiration from Bhutan’s four major forest ecosystems—evergreen oak, cool broadleaf, warm broadleaf, and subtropical. Traditional Bhutanese craftsmanship will be integrated throughout the architecture, along with native plant landscaping and thoughtfully zoned interiors to create a peaceful and immersive travel experience.

Connectivity within the Gelephu Mindfulness City will be carefully planned, ensuring the airport functions as a seamless gateway while upholding the city’s values of harmony and mindful urban design.

Pioneering Sustainable Infrastructure

Environmental responsibility is embedded into every aspect of the project. A box culvert system will preserve the natural flow of the Paitha River under the runway. Photovoltaic panels on terminal roofs will harness solar energy, while passive cooling and natural airflow will reduce reliance on mechanical systems.

Locally sourced materials such as glulam timber will be used extensively to minimise environmental impact and support Bhutanese industries. The airport is set to become a regional benchmark for sustainable, culturally integrated infrastructure.

Driving Local Empowerment

Beyond national connectivity, the airport is designed to create tangible benefits for the local population. It will generate employment during both construction and operation phases, spanning roles in engineering, logistics, hospitality, and airport management.

Training and upskilling programmes will prepare Bhutanese workers for new professional roles, while the airport’s cargo capabilities will improve export potential—opening new markets for local producers and entrepreneurs.

A Development Steeped in Experience

The leadership of the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority brings global experience to this national project. The development approach draws from proven models, aiming to ensure that the airport becomes a catalyst for economic and social transformation.

With strategic vision and practical expertise guiding every phase, the Gelephu International Airport stands as a thoughtful response to Bhutan’s future aspirations—ready to connect the Kingdom with the world in a way that stays true to its identity.

Milestones to 2029

Preparatory works such as river diversion and land development will commence immediately following the ceremony. Major construction of the runway and terminal will begin in April 2026, followed by systems installation in July 2027.

Testing and commissioning are expected in March 2029, leading to the grand inauguration in December 2029. Step by step, Bhutan is advancing towards a future built on balance, purpose, and mindful prosperity.

As of now, Paro Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. The Gelephu International Airport will become the country’s second international gateway, offering a new southern access point that enhances connectivity, decentralises development, and opens up fresh opportunities for trade, travel, and transformation.