In a significant boost to Nepal’s spiritual tourism, construction of Vishwa Shanti Dham (Global Peace Sanctuary) has officially resumed after six years hiatus. The multibillion-dollar project, which was left in limbo over various issues, saw a major milestone on Sunday as officials of Lumbini Development Trust and monks gathered to oversee the concrete casting of the building’s first floor.

The ambitious project is the brainchild of renowned Buddhist Master Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche. Estimated to cost over Rs 5 billion, the sanctuary is designed as a stunning four-storey meditation hall shaped like a blooming lotus, reaching a height of 44 metres.

The journey to this point has been fraught with challenges. While the foundation stone was laid in 2014 by the then Indian ambassador Ranjit Rae, the project stalled completely in 2020. The project faced several setbacks, including complex land disputes within the Lumbini master plan area and the logistical issues caused by the Covid pandemic.

Spanning 66 ropani (approximately 3.4 hectares) of land provided by the Nepal government near Gate 8 in Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, the structure is being built to withstand modern challenges. Engineers confirmed the building is designed to be seismically resilient, capable of enduring a magnitude 8.0 earthquake.

Speaking at the site, Shyalpa Tenzin Rinpoche outlined a unique fund collection model for the project. "We are collecting one rupee from every individual in Nepal and one dollar or one pound from supporters across the globe. By gathering these modest contributions from millions, we will build this sanctuary together,” he said. “After years of obstacles, I am confident the work will now proceed without further interruption."

The Rinpoche envisions the Shanti Dham as more than just a building; he sees it as a remedy for modern anxieties. "The world is currently grappling with escalating wars, climate change, and a mental health crisis. The Shanti Dham will be an open platform where people of every race, colour and creed can unite. It will serve as a beacon to guide global citizens back to the path of peace and human welfare,” he said.

The resumption of work has brought a sense of relief to the local community. Residents who have long lived in the shadow of the unfinished concrete skeleton expressed optimism. It is believed that this religious site attracts visitors from all over the world and sustains the local economy.

Lharkyal Lama, vice-chairman of the Lumbini Development Trust, echoed these sentiments, noting that the sanctuary would further boost Lumbini’s global profile. "This project is not just for Nepal; it is a gift to the world. It will serve as a symbol of peace that helps promote our heritage internationally," he asserted.

Once completed, the sanctuary will house a 1,500-seat hall, a museum, a library, a "Universal Peace Institute," and dedicated retreat centres. Each of its four floors will span 3,400 square metres, offering ample space for the thousands of seekers expected to visit annually.