Lumbini — Birthplace of Buddha

Lumbini, in the Terai plains of southern Nepal, is where Siddhartha Gautama was born in 623 BC under a sal tree in the garden of Queen Mayadevi. It is one of the four holiest sites in Buddhism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The sacred garden contains the Mayadevi Temple (marking the exact birthplace), the Ashoka Pillar (erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to mark his pilgrimage), and the sacred Puskarini pond where Queen Mayadevi bathed before giving birth.

Surrounding the sacred garden, the Lumbini Development Zone spans over 6 square kilometers and hosts dozens of monasteries built by Buddhist nations from around the world — each in their own architectural tradition. The Monastic Zone is divided into eastern (Theravada) and western (Mahayana) sections.

The eternal flame of peace burns continuously, and the World Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) is a striking white structure visible from a distance. Lumbini is best visited from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.