Buddha Jayanti 2027: Where to Celebrate in Kathmandu and Lumbini

Buddha Jayanti 2027 falls on Thursday 20 May, the full moon of the month of Baisakh by the lunar calendar. Buddhists celebrate the birth, enlightenment and passing of Siddhartha Gautama on the same day, and Nepal, where the Buddha was born, marks it with prayers, processions and thousands of butter lamps. Here is where to see it in Kathmandu and in Lumbini.

Buddha Jayanti at Swayambhunath

Swayambhunath, the hilltop 'Monkey Temple' overlooking Kathmandu, is the busiest place in the city on Buddha Jayanti. Pilgrims climb the long eastern stairway from early morning, lamps are lit around the stupa, and monks lead prayers. In the evening the hill glows with butter lamps. Go early or late in the day to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Buddha Jayanti at Boudhanath

Boudhanath, one of the largest stupas in the world, fills with Tibetan and Himalayan Buddhists walking clockwise around the dome, spinning prayer wheels and making offerings. Processions carrying images of the Buddha often pass through the area, and the monasteries around the square open their doors for prayers.

Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini

Lumbini, the Buddha's birthplace, holds its biggest day of the year. Pilgrims from Nepal and across Asia gather at the Maya Devi Temple, and the monasteries built by different Buddhist nations hold ceremonies. Lumbini is a long day's drive or a short flight plus a drive from Kathmandu, so allow at least two nights. Late May is hot in the plains: visit early morning and evening.

How to take part respectfully

• Walk clockwise around stupas and monasteries.
• Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered, and remove shoes where asked.
• Many Buddhists keep the day vegetarian; it is a kind gesture to do the same.
• Ask before photographing monks, nuns and people at prayer.
• Light a butter lamp for a small donation if you'd like to join in.

Weather in late May

Late May is the warmest time of year in Kathmandu, with hazy skies and the first pre-monsoon showers. Budhanilkantha, on the edge of the forest, stays a little cooler than the city centre. Carry water, a hat and a light rain jacket.

Getting there from Sacred Trails

Boudhanath and Swayambhunath are both easy to reach from our homestay by car. We can book a driver for both in one day. For Lumbini, our 3-day Lumbini tour starts from the homestay and takes care of transport and your hotel in Lumbini.

Stay with us for Buddha Jayanti

Our neighbourhood has its own spiritual life: monasteries and meditation centres in the hills around Budhanilkantha, and Nagi Gompa, a nunnery in Shivapuri National Park, is a beautiful walk. Sacred Trails has en-suite rooms from $35 a night with breakfast.

Book direct and offers combine: 5% off stays of 3 nights or more (6% for 7 nights or more), 5% off when you book 14 or more days ahead (6% for 30 or more days), and an extra 1% in big festival months. The booking form adds every offer you qualify for.