Lumbini, nestled in Nepal's Rupandehi district, offers visitors a peaceful respite and insight into the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Explore ancient ruins, exquisite monasteries, and an array of beautiful statues that tell the story of Buddhism's origins in this venerable city.
In 1992, archaeologists excavated several ruins dating back about 2200 years. The memorial stone in small brick fit the stone laid by the great Emperor Ashoka of India in the 3rd century BC. Plans have been made to build a beautiful monument; however, the temple's ruins are now protected by a robust brick structure.
Visit the Lepakshi Temple.
The Lepakshi Temple, located in Lumbini, is a place of worship dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator god. This architectural marvel features intricate sculptures and paintings, including a fresco of Ganesha and his vehicle, the mouse. You can also admire the figures of musicians playing ancient instruments like flutes, veenas, and drums. Take advantage of this inviting temple with exciting stories about Hindu mythology.
Night Prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple.
The Mahabodhi Temple in Lumbini is a must-visit for Buddhist enthusiasts. Constructed around the Bodhi Tree, it honors the place where Lord Buddha meditated and attained enlightenment. The temple comes to life at night, with people from across the globe coming to take part in special prayers and rituals. Dressed in white robes and sporting shaven heads, Buddhists join in chanting Buddha’s teachings for peace and harmony surrounding the world.
Explore the Mayadevi Gardens and Pool.
The Mayadevi Garden and Pool further add to the beauty of the city. A primary pilgrimage site, it is reputed to be the place where Mayadevi, mother of Lord Buddha, bathed before delivering him in Lumbini. The lush gardens have a walled folly with a cave of stone carvings showing plenty of Greco-Roman inspiration, alongside figures from the Buddhist tradition. There are also brass plaques and tablets carrying inscriptions on them.
Engage in Daily Prayers at the World Peace Pagoda.
The World Peace Pagoda stands overlooking the southeastern corner of the park. It is a massive shrine and art gallery built by members of the Japanese NipponzanMyohoji sect in 2000. People gather here to meditate, engage in outdoor prayer and hold various religious ceremonies. The pagoda also has several bronze statues showcasing scenes from the life of Lord Buddha, as well as a central stupa, said to house more than 8,000 relics from different nations around the world.
Hike up to The Ashoka Pillar Garden and Relic Stupa of Kapilvastu Hill Range
Other of Lumbini's many ancient sites is the Ashoka Pillar Garden and Relic Stupa. Located in the Kapilvastu Hill Range, it was built by Indian Emperor Ashoka to commemorate Lord Buddha's visit to the area. Visitors can hike up to the site and enjoy views of the Himalayas, along with the chance to learn more about Lord Buddha's life and teachings. The park also has an octagonal relic stupa, which houses Buddhist relics such as bones and pottery.
Important While you are in a Temple
Before walking around the ruins, you must take off your shoes; advise to wear your socks because the walk is enormous. For many pilgrims, an essential part of the ruins is the sand sculpture of the Buddha's birth, which Ripu Malla, the Malla king, in the 14th century placed. Although the statue is worn, one can create the image of Maya Devi holding a branch while studying Buddha. Just below this is the exact birthplace of the Buddha, marked by a single stone covered in glass.
Next to the temple is a pond where Maya Devi is believed to have bathed before she gave birth to Buddha. The ruined foundations of various follies and brick monasteries are scattered throughout the ruins, dating from the second century BC to the ninth century AD. Location/Availability
Where is Lumbini Located?
Lumbini is located in the Rupandehi Southern Terai region of Nepal, and although it is 600 feet high, it is considered plain.
Lumbini is 230 km from Kathmandu and can be done by an 8-hour journey from Bhairahawa. Bhairahawa, 22 kilometers west of Lumbini, is also the nearest domestic airport - the flight time from Kathmandu to Bhairahawa is 30 minutes from where you can get a bus or taxi to reach Lumbini.
Place of residence
Tourists and pilgrims must visit Lumbini, so accommodation is not a problem. For budget options, you'll find hotels in Lumbini Bazaar (aka Buddhanagar), a town at the eastern entrance to the Lumbini development area.
High-end hotels are located in the Bhairahawa Hill Development Zone. Many guests eat at the hotel.
We hope you will book your Lumbini tour with us and allow us to take you on a journey through the rich history and spiritual significance of this beautiful and sacred place.
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