Bhutan has achieved a remarkable milestone by setting a Guinness World Record for erecting 108 Buddhist stupas within just nine hours. The record-breaking effort involved around 40,000 trained volunteers, who came together to complete the large-scale spiritual initiative in Gelephu.
Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) Governor Lotay Tshering announced the achievement, describing it as an important moment for the Himalayan nation. The initiative was undertaken to establish the spiritual foundation of Gelephu Mindfulness City, which is envisaged as an ethical global economic hub.
The achievement received official recognition on Tuesday evening, November 3, 2026, when a representative of Guinness World Records handed over the certificate to Dr. Lotay Tshering in Gelephu. The certificate formally acknowledged Bhutan’s successful completion of the extraordinary task.
The construction of 108 Buddhist stupas within such a short period highlights the collective effort and dedication of the thousands of trained volunteers involved in the project. Their participation made it possible to accomplish the ambitious target in only nine hours.
Beyond setting a world record, the initiative also carries significance for Gelephu Mindfulness City. By linking the achievement with the city’s spiritual foundation, Bhutan has highlighted the importance of its cultural and spiritual identity in shaping its vision of an ethical global economic centre.