His Majesty The King will grace the inaugural ceremony
DAWA ZANGMO | Thimphu
In preparation for the upcoming Global Peace Prayer Ceremony, officials held a comprehensive press briefing to outline key logistical arrangements, transportation protocols, and facility management for the major international event scheduled from November 4 to 19, 2025.
The ceremony, which will bring together thousands of monks, nuns, and lay practitioners from over 45 countries, is expected to be one of the largest non-sectarian spiritual gatherings ever hosted in Bhutan. It will be held across two main venues, Changlimithang Stadium and Kuenselphodrang, both symbolising Bhutan’s enduring commitment to global peace and compassion.
During the press meeting, Choten Dorji, the Secretary for Sangha Administration and Development Affairs of the Central Monastic Body, emphasised that this marks the first-ever non-sectarian Global Peace Prayer aimed at promoting worldwide unity and spiritual harmony.
“This historic event will bring together diverse spiritual leaders and practitioners under a single aspiration: the collective prayer for global peace and well-being,” said Choten Dorji. “It is not only a religious occasion but a universal expression of harmony among all faiths.”
Echoing the same, Dasho Karma Ura, the president of the Centre for Bhutan & GNH Studies, noted that thousands of lams and practitioners from more than 45 countries have confirmed their participation, highlighting the significance of Bhutan’s role as a spiritual hub in the region. He emphasised that the event will reflect Bhutan’s deep-rooted values of peace, compassion, and coexistence that have guided the country’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness.
The meticulous planning has been undertaken to ensure smooth operations throughout the festival. The Secretary for Home Affairs, Sonam Wangyel, announced that the 70th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, will also be celebrated alongside the Global Peace Prayer Festival.
“The 70th Birth Anniversary will be observed with a grand ceremony similar to the National Day celebrations at Changlimithang,” said Secretary Sonam Wangyel. “If the public cannot be fully accommodated at the stadium, additional space will be arranged at the Peace Prayer venue.”
He added that the joint celebrations will not only mark the Fourth King’s birthday but also symbolise His Majesty’s enduring legacy of peace, environmental stewardship, and national unity.
Traffic and Security Measures
In anticipation of large crowds and international participation, strict traffic regulations have been put in place. According to the coordination committee, only designated taxis and buses will be permitted for pick-up and drop-off services at both Changlimithang and Kuenselphodrang venues.
Colonel Chencho Gyeltshen, Officer Commanding of the Traffic Division, RBP, stated that unauthorised vehicles will be restricted from entering the core town area from November 4 to 14 to minimise congestion and ensure the safety of participants and residents.
Law enforcement agencies, in collaboration with the Thimphu Thromde and relevant ministries, will oversee these measures. Special traffic volunteers will be deployed at major junctions to guide pilgrims and ensure smooth vehicular movement.
Ensuring Accessibility and Comfort for Participants
The press briefing also focused on logistics, seating arrangements, and facilities to accommodate the expected influx of international and local participants. Organisers assured that all amenities have been designed with accessibility and comfort in mind.
“Detailed arrangements have been made for accessible seating, well-maintained toilets, and essential amenities,” said Kesang Deki, Cabinet Secretary. “The goal is to provide a comfortable and meaningful experience for every participant, whether they are local residents, monks, or international visitors.”
She further noted that coordination teams have been established for crowd management, first aid, sanitation, and hospitality services to ensure that the two-week festival proceeds efficiently.
The Global Peace Prayer Ceremony is envisioned as a collective spiritual gathering that transcends national and sectarian boundaries. Thousands of practitioners representing diverse Buddhist lineages, along with participants from other faiths, will offer prayers for world peace, environmental balance, and human harmony.
Officials have also arranged cultural performances, sacred music recitations, and traditional offerings to accompany the main prayer sessions. These programmes are expected to deepen the sense of solidarity and shared purpose among attendees.
The event reflects Bhutan’s aspiration to foster peace not only within its borders but also across the world. It reinforces the nation’s image as a haven of spirituality and a beacon of compassion in a turbulent global context.
Behind the extensive preparations lies the collaborative effort of multiple agencies, including the Home Ministry, Sangha Administration and Development Affairs, Thimphu Thromde, and the Royal Bhutan Police, each ensuring that the festival upholds the values of discipline, inclusivity, and serenity.
Choten Dorji reiterated that the spirit of unity, harmony, and prayer remains at the heart of the event. “Every detail, from transport to seating, has been thoughtfully coordinated to create an atmosphere of shared peace and reflection,” he stated.
As Bhutan prepares to welcome international delegations and spiritual leaders, the sense of anticipation grows among citizens and visitors alike. For many, this event will not only be a prayer for peace but also a moment of national pride celebrating Bhutan’s enduring role as a guardian of spiritual values in the modern world.
With the combined celebrations of the Global Peace Prayer Ceremony and the 70th Birth Anniversary of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, the coming weeks promise to be a profound expression of faith, gratitude, and unity.
The Global Peace Prayer Festival 2025 is a landmark gathering uniting Buddhist leaders, practitioners, and peace advocates from across the world. The main program will feature rare and sacred rituals, including the Jabzhi Gyep, Global Peace Prayer, Bazaguru Recitation, Kalachakra Empowerment, and the Nuns’ Initiation Ceremony.
To complement these spiritual highlights, the festival will host a series of side events from 4th to 19th November 2025, designed to enrich its spiritual core while celebrating Bhutan’s cultural heritage and community livelihoods. These programs will showcase the country’s spiritual, artistic, and community traditions, creating opportunities for artisans, entrepreneurs, and youth while fostering intercultural dialogue and global connections.
