Today, the 22nd day of the ninth Tibetan lunar month, marks Lhabab Duchen, commemorating the Buddha’s descent from heaven. In Bhutan, Tibet’s neighbouring country, 108 enlightenment stupas, each measuring 15 metres in height, are being constructed simultaneously in a single day along a 12-kilometre stretch of the Mau Chhu River in Gelephu Mindfulness City, which is being developed in southern Bhutan. The initiative follows the vision of Bhutan’s King, with thousands of people voluntarily participating in the construction. More than 40,000 skilled workers, volunteers and local residents are directly involved in the building work. Meanwhile, over 100 Buddhist spiritual leaders from around the world, together with more than 200,000 domestic and international guests and members of the public, have gathered at the site to offer prayers. The initiative is among the first projects undertaken as part of Gelephu Mindfulness City, envisioned by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. The project to build the 108 stupas was announced in February 2026.