Bhutan Plans Mindfulness City with New International Airport

Gelephu, Bhutan — The Himalayan nation of Bhutan is set to advance its wellness and tourism initiatives with the construction of a new international airport in Gelephu, aimed at fostering a unique mindfulness city.

The Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) has revealed its architectural design for Gelephu International Airport, which will signify the first major step in this ambitious project. The airport aims to seamlessly integrate natural elements in its design, reflecting Bhutan’s commitment to Gross National Happiness (GNH) and sustainable living.

Architect Bjarke Ingels emphasized the importance of the airport as the first and last visitor experience, stating, “An airport is the first and last impression you get of a place you visit.” The structure is designed using modular mass timber frames reminiscent of a stylized mountain range, crafted with traditional Bhutanese art, including dragon motifs symbolizing the nation’s history.

Expected to span 731,946 square feet, Gelephu International Airport will accommodate 123 flights daily and serve up to 1.3 million passengers annually. This capacity comes as Bhutan seeks to increase its tourism, which saw only 316,000 visitors in 2019, primarily due to its existing airport, Paro International Airport, facing geographical limitations.

Located close to the Indian border, the airport’s construction is estimated to cost around Nu 20 billion (approximately $24 million) and strategically enhances regional connectivity, especially for larger aircraft. Currently, the existing facilities in Gelephu handle domestic flights, but there are plans for international services once the new airport opens.

“This airport is essential for the success of the Gelephu Mindfulness City as a business hub,” Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck remarked. The king underlined that the new airport will act as a critical lifeline for the landlocked nation.

In line with Bhutan’s established “high value, low impact” tourism policy, visitors are subject to a daily sustainable development fee of $100, which supports public services and infrastructure. The introduction of Gelephu International Airport aligns with Bhutan’s broader economic objectives, targeting to enhance its tourism offerings while maintaining environmental integrity.

While there is currently no confirmed opening date for the airport, the designs reveal a commitment to creating an inviting and tranquil experience for travelers, reflecting Bhutan’s ethos and approach to development.