Where is Lumbini?
Lumbini, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site, is located in Rupandehi
District in southern Nepal near the Indian border. Lumbini lies 25 km east
of Kapilvastu.
How will you gain access?
Bhairawa (22 km) is the closest airport. The airport operates flights
connecting Lumbini to Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal. Bus services are
available between Bhairawa and Lumbini. Buses also connect Bhairawa to
places like Kathmandu, Pokhara and Varanasi. From Bhairawa one can also hire
taxis and bikes to reach Lumbini.
What does it signify?
Lumbini is specially significant for being the birthplace of Lord Buddha,
the founder of Buddhism. In Buddha's time Lumbini was a land of lush
greenery and Sal trees. The Shakyas and the Kolias clans were the owners of
the exquisite gardens. Buddha's father king Suddhodana belonged to the was
of the Shakya dynasty belonging to the Kshatriya (Warrior) caste. Buddha was
known as Siddharta in his childhood. Maya Devi gave birth to Siddharta on
her way to her parents home, while taking rest at Lumbini. The ancient Pali
and Sanskrit literature even refer to the beauty of Lumbini.
What beckons devotees?
» Ashoka Pillar
The Buddhist emperor Ashoka erected the Ashoka Pillar on the spot where
Lord Buddha was born. The stone pillar is no less than a treasure for
Lumbini. The pillar bears some ancient inscriptions.
» Buddhist Temples
One can find foundations of temples dating between 2nd century BC and 9th
century AD. The Dharma Swamy Maharaja Buddha Temple and the Lumbini Buddha
Vihar are two modern temples built in the Tibetan style. There are other
temples outside the main complex. These temples have been built by countries
like China, Japan and Burma.
» Lumbini Museum
The Lumbini museum is no less attraction to visitors, travellers and
devotees. The museum showcases a priceless collection of artifacts from as
far as the Maurya and the Kushana periods. It also exhibits rare manuscripts
and other items that were discovered at the site.
» Lumbini International Research Institute (LIRI)
The Lumbini International Research Institute promotes research work on
Buddhism. The institute houses a large collection of books on religion, art
and architecture. Myriad of travellers and scholars arrive here to study
what Buddha left behind to the world.
What is the best time?
The climate at Lumbini remains pleasant for most part of the year. However,
the best time to pay a visit to this sacred place is between September and
March. Winters can get chilly. Monks gather at Lumbini in huge number at the
end of September and in the second week of December to attend the Peace
Pooja and Mahakala Pooja respectively.
