Preparations Intensify for Major Buddhist Event at India-Bhutan Border

The Chirang district administration in Assam is enhancing preparations for the upcoming Project 108, a major Buddhist event at the India-Bhutan border. Scheduled for November 1, this event will see the installation of 108 stupas, attracting visitors from around the world. With temporary immigration facilities and improved road access, the administration aims to ensure a smooth experience for attendees. Security measures are also in place, and local exhibitions will showcase regional culture and products. Anticipating around 5,000 visitors, the district is taking significant steps to accommodate the influx of tourists.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 27, 2026, 14:52 IST

Enhanced Arrangements for the Upcoming Buddhist Event

The entry gate to Bhutan at Gelephu (Image)

Chirang, Oct 27: The district administration of Chirang in Assam is ramping up preparations along the India-Bhutan border to accommodate visitors heading to Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City for a significant Buddhist event scheduled for November 1.

The event, known as “Project 108,” will involve the installation and inauguration of 108 stupas, attracting representatives from 20 nations and tourists from around the globe.

Efforts have been intensified in the Dadgiri-Hatisar border region, including the establishment of a temporary immigration and customs facility at the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) check post to facilitate smoother cross-border movement.

Additionally, road enhancements and beautification projects are underway along the roughly 35-km route from Samthar to the Bhutan border.

Security measures have been bolstered, and a control room has been set up to oversee preparations and coordinate activities during the event.

Sidli-Chirang MLA Paniram Brahma emphasized that the administration is committed to ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors traveling to Bhutan.

“On November 1, the 108 stupas will be inaugurated in Bhutan. Residents from our area will also pass through Gelephu to attend the event. We are ensuring that both Bhutanese visitors and those coming from India encounter no disruptions,” Brahma stated.

He also mentioned the creation of a VIP lounge for dignitaries and the construction of a gate to facilitate border movement.

Chirang District Commissioner Gokul Chandra Brahma noted that the border area has been cleaned and adorned to warmly welcome Bhutanese citizens and international tourists.

Three exhibition stalls showcasing local tourism, culture, and sericulture have been established to promote regional attractions and locally made products. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore these displays and purchase local goods.

The administration anticipates a surge in tourist activity between October 28 and November 6.

To manage traffic effectively, the District Magistrate has imposed restrictions on heavy vehicles on National Highway 127(C) from 6 am to 8 pm, with exceptions for essential services.

Approximately 5,000 attendees are expected for the event, although this number is still tentative. Out of these, around 1,500 visitors are predicted to travel through Chirang to reach Gelephu.

A temporary immigration office was also set up at Dadgiri-Hatisar in September, a month prior to the event, highlighting the administration’s proactive measures to prepare for the anticipated influx.