Preparations Intensify in Chirang for Bhutan's Mindfulness City Event

As Bhutan prepares to declare Gelephu a Mindfulness City on November 1, Chirang is enhancing its border facilities to welcome thousands of visitors. BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary inaugurated new welcome gates and immigration offices, anticipating significant tourist traffic. The event will feature the establishment of 108 Buddhist stupas and attract representatives from 20 countries. Local authorities are optimistic that this influx will boost the economy and promote regional development, showcasing Assam's rich culture and traditions to international guests.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 28, 2026, 15:34 IST

Chirang Gears Up for Bhutan's Mindfulness City Declaration

BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary inaugurated welcome gates in Chirang on Wednesday.

Chirang, Oct 28: In anticipation of Bhutan's event on November 1, which will celebrate Gelephu's designation as a Mindfulness City, preparations are ramping up in Assam's Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) region.

On Wednesday, BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary inaugurated two welcome gates, an immigration office, and exhibition stalls along the India-Bhutan border in Chirang district to accommodate the expected influx of visitors heading to Gelephu.

The newly established gates are situated at Samthaibari on National Highway 127C and Dadgiri, close to the international border.

With around 5,000 participants anticipated at the Bhutan event, approximately 1,500 are expected to pass through Chirang, prompting local authorities to enhance border arrangements and access routes to Bhutan.

“We have inaugurated these gates to welcome the investors and dignitaries arriving for the event. Security measures are in place, and everything is under control,” Mohilary stated.

He added that security would be reinforced along the 35-km stretch from Samthaibari to the Bhutan border to manage the expected influx of international visitors.

On November 1, Bhutan will conduct a religious ceremony to officially declare Gelephu as a Mindfulness City.

The event will feature the establishment of 108 Buddhist stupas, with representatives and tourists from 20 different countries expected to attend.

Mohilary mentioned that arrangements have been made to streamline immigration for visiting dignitaries and investors, estimating the process would take between 30 minutes to an hour. He emphasized that visitors would also be introduced to the rich culture and traditions of Assam.

“We aim for our guests to experience our culture and traditions,” he remarked.

Furthermore, the BTC chief noted that the development of Gelephu could lead to investment opportunities in adjacent areas of Assam, particularly in Chirang and Kokrajhar districts.

“With Bhutan becoming a Mindfulness City, we will focus on developing the surrounding areas in Chirang and Kokrajhar, as many reputable investors are showing interest in Assam,” Mohilary added.

He expressed optimism that the anticipated rise in tourist activity would bolster the local economy and create avenues for regional development.

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

Additionally, three exhibition stalls showcasing tourism, culture, and sericulture have been established to promote the region's attractions and locally produced goods. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore these displays and purchase local products.

The administration is expecting a surge in tourist movement through the border from October 28 to November 6.