Lumbini, located in the southwestern region of Nepal, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lumbini is also the birthplace of Gautama Buddha the founder of Buddhism. The city is full of ancient temples, monasteries, and other important Buddhist sites. A day trip to Lumbini from Kathmandu can be quite hectic, but with proper planning and time management, you can cover most of the important sites in a day.
The birthplace of Lord Buddha, the apostle of peace and non-violence. Still preserved, the broken Ashokan pillar, remnants of the old monastery and images of Buddha’s mother, Maya Devi. The auspicious garden of Lumbini is situated amidst the nearly established town of Siddharthanagar. It is at the hot Terai plains of the west Nepal.The broken Ashokan pillar, holy remnants of the old Buddha’s Monastery, divine images of the Buddha’s Mother Great Maya Devi, etc are still well preserved here.
It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists from all over the world, and it attracts millions of visitors every year. Here are some more details about Lumbini:
History
According to Buddhist tradition, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The exact date of his birth is unknown, but it is believed to have occurred around 563 BCE. The site was rediscovered in 1896 by a German archaeologist, and it has since been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sights
The main attraction here is the Maya Devi Temple, which marks the exact spot where Lord Buddha was born. The temple complex includes the marker stone, which identifies the exact location of the birth, as well as a number of other shrines and monuments. Other important sites in Lumbini include the Ashoka Pillar, the Sacred Pond, and the World Peace Pagoda.
Lumbini also has a Monastic Zone, which is an area where different Buddhist traditions have established monasteries and temples. Visitors can explore the various monasteries and learn about the different Buddhist practices and teachings.
Accommodation
Lumbini has a range of accommodation options, including budget guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxury resorts. There are also several monasteries that offer accommodation for those who want a more authentic Buddhist experience.
Transportation
Lumbini is located around 300 km west of Kathmandu and can be reached by road or air. The nearest airport is the Gautam Buddha Airport in Bhairahawa, which is around 20 km from Lumbini. There are also regular buses and taxis that connect Lumbini to other parts of Nepal.
Climate
Lumbini has a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is cool and dry. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, can make travel difficult due to heavy rains and flooding.