Goensho Tshamkhang

Set amid the peaceful surroundings of Wangsisina in Thimphu, Goensho Tshamkhang is a residential retreat created for elderly Bhutanese who have no family members able to care for them. More than simply a place to live, it offers its residents companionship, spiritual comfort and access to medical care in a setting designed around dignity and belonging.

Built under His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel's People's Project, the retreat reflects Bhutan's compassionate approach to social welfare and the enduring importance of caring for the most vulnerable members of society.

A Royal Initiative for Bhutan's Senior Citizens

Goensho Tshamkhang was established upon the Royal Command of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. Construction was completed in June 2018, and the retreat opened the following month.

On 24 July 2018, His Majesty The King visited the newly completed facility. At the time, it was home to 19 elderly residents, all of whom were recipients of His Majesty's Gensho Zhabto Kidu.

The Gensho Zhabto Kidu provides assistance, including monthly allowances, to senior citizens who do not have family support or whose families are unable to care for them. Some recipients, however, require more than financial help. They may be unable to live independently or may have no permanent home. Goensho Tshamkhang was created to meet these needs with compassion and continuity of care.

Several of its first residents had previously been accommodated temporarily at the Kidu Patient Guest House in Thimphu.

A Place to Live, Pray and Receive Care

The retreat consists of 13 cottages and has the capacity to accommodate up to 78 residents. Its design combines private living spaces with shared facilities that encourage companionship and community.

Facilities include:

• Thirteen residential cottages
• A nurse's office
• Administrative offices
• A common kitchen
• Shared spaces for prayer and recreation
• Accessible toilets
• Landscaped grounds suitable for wheelchair users

Prayer forms an important part of daily life for many elderly Bhutanese. By including dedicated spaces for spiritual practice alongside areas for recreation and social interaction, Goensho Tshamkhang supports residents' physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Designed with Accessibility in Mind

Accessibility was incorporated into the retreat from the beginning. Its landscaped grounds allow wheelchair movement, while accessible toilets help residents retain greater comfort and independence.

These thoughtful features are especially important for people living with reduced mobility or age-related health concerns. Together with on-site nursing support, they create an environment in which residents can receive care without losing their sense of autonomy or dignity.

Continuing Care

More recent public records continue to recognise Goensho Tshamkhang as an important part of Bhutan's support system for senior citizens. Bhutan's 2023 submission to the United Nations reaffirmed the retreat's capacity, facilities and role in caring for elderly people without family support.

Compassion in Practice

Goensho Tshamkhang represents a deeply Bhutanese understanding of well-being—one in which material care, community and spiritual life are closely connected.

For its residents, it offers security, medical support and a peaceful place to practise their faith. For Bhutan, it stands as a lasting expression of His Majesty's commitment to ensuring that elderly citizens without caregivers can live with comfort, companionship and dignity.

Visiting Goensho Tshamkhang

Goensho Tshamkhang is a residential care facility rather than a conventional tourist attraction. Any visit should be arranged in advance through the appropriate authorities, with residents' privacy and well-being treated as the first priority.