Spiritual
Lumbini Pilgrimage
A short, contemplative journey to the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar and the monasteries of Lumbini.
- Duration
- 2 nights / 3 days
- Group
- Private or small group
From $300per person
DetailsHeritage site
Lumbini travel guide
The birthplace of the Buddha: the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar and monasteries from around the world.
About Lumbini
Lumbini, in the western Terai near the Indian border, is revered in Buddhist tradition as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
At its heart is the Sacred Garden, with the Maya Devi Temple, the Ashoka Pillar and the Puskarini pond. Around it, the Monastic Zone holds temples and monasteries built by Buddhist communities from many countries.
Things to do in Lumbini
Maya Devi Temple
The temple over the spot revered as the Buddha's birthplace, with archaeological remains beneath.
Ashoka Pillar
The stone pillar erected by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BC, whose inscription records his visit.
Puskarini pond and the Bodhi tree
The sacred pond and the prayer-flag-draped Bodhi tree beside the temple — especially peaceful at dawn and dusk.
Monastic Zone
Temples and monasteries built by Buddhist communities from many countries, linked by a long canal and walkways.
World Peace Pagoda
A gleaming white stupa at the edge of the site.
Tilaurakot
Ruins about 27 km away associated with the ancient Shakya capital of Kapilavastu.
Getting to Lumbini
- Fly from Kathmandu to Bhairahawa (about 25 minutes), then drive about 20 minutes to Lumbini.
- Overland, Lumbini combines naturally with Chitwan — our Sacred Triangle tour drives between them in about 3 hours.
Best time to visit
October to March is the most comfortable; the Terai is very hot from April to June and wet during the monsoon.
Local tips
- Vehicles aren't allowed in the sacred zone — hire a bicycle or rickshaw, or walk.
- Dress modestly and remove shoes where indicated.
- Visit the Sacred Garden early in the morning for the quietest atmosphere.
Visit Lumbini with us
Guided trips that include this destination, starting and ending at our homestay in Budhanilkantha.
SpiritualBest seller
The Sacred Triangle
Seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, two jungle days and the birthplace of the Buddha in nine well-paced days.
- Duration
- 8 nights / 9 days
- Group
- Private or small group
From $800per person
Details
Cultural
Complete Nepal Journey
Kathmandu, Chitwan, Lumbini and Pokhara in eleven days — the best of Nepal for first-time visitors.
- Duration
- 10 nights / 11 days
- Group
- Private or small group
From $1,500per person
DetailsLumbini: frequently asked questions
Is Lumbini worth visiting if I'm not Buddhist?
Yes — visitors of every faith come for its history, archaeology and calm. Modest dress and quiet behaviour are appreciated.
How long should I spend in Lumbini?
One full day covers the Sacred Garden and the Monastic Zone; a second day lets you add Tilaurakot. Our pilgrimage is 2 nights / 3 days.
Related guides
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Stupas and Temples near Budhanilkantha: A Spiritual Journey in Kathmandu
From the reclining Vishnu at Budhanilkantha to the great stupas of Boudhanath and Swayambhunath — the sacred sites within reach of the homestay, and how to visit them respectfully.
· 6 min read
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Best Time to Visit Nepal: Seasons for Trekking, Safaris and Kathmandu
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Plan a trip to Lumbini
Staying with us in Budhanilkantha? We can arrange a driver, a guide or a full tour to Lumbini. Tell us your dates and what you'd like to see.
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