Lumbinī is a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the Rupandehi District of Lumbini Province in Nepal. It is the place where, according to Buddhist tradition, Queen Mahamayadevi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in 623 BCE.
2 pictures of Lumbini from Kartabya Aryal, Prayush Poudel, and other travelers
Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, holds immense historical and spiritual significance, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs, spiritual seekers, and tourists alike. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a serene and tranquil place, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the teachings and history of Buddhism.
To get to Lumbini, the nearest airport is Bhairahawa (Gautam Buddha Airport), which is about 22 km away. Flights from Kathmandu and other major cities in Nepal are available. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Kathmandu, which takes about 8-10 hours, or hire a car for a more comfortable journey.
It is advisable to book your accommodation and guided tours in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. Many visitors choose to book a multi-day Lumbini pilgrimage tour that includes transportation, accommodation, and guided visits to major sites.
The cost of visiting Lumbini can vary widely depending on your preferences. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-$30 per day, while mid-range travelers may spend around $40-$60 per day. Luxury travelers can expect to spend more for high-end accommodations and amenities.
Some of the best things to do in Lumbini include visiting the Maya Devi Temple, which marks the exact location where Lord Buddha was born, exploring the World Peace Pagoda, and strolling through the Lumbini Monastic Zone, which houses numerous monasteries built by different countries. Do not miss the Ashoka Pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka to commemorate his pilgrimage to Lumbini.
For dining options, try out the Lumbini Village Restaurant for delicious local Nepali and Indian cuisine, or the Oasis Restaurant for a mix of Nepali, Indian, and continental dishes. For a more unique experience, visit one of the monasteries, where you can sometimes enjoy a traditional Buddhist meal.
Accommodation options in Lumbini range from budget guesthouses to luxurious hotels. For budget travelers, consider the Siddhartha Guest House or the Lumbini Buddha Lodge, which offer basic amenities and clean rooms. For those seeking more comfort, the Buddha Maya Garden Hotel and the Lumbini Hokke Hotel provide upscale accommodations with modern facilities.
Off the beaten path:
A unique and unusual travel experience in Lumbini is to participate in a meditation retreat at the Panditarama Vipassana Meditation Center. This center offers meditation courses and retreats throughout the year, providing an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the practice of mindfulness and self-discovery in the birthplace of Lord Buddha. This experience allows you to connect with the spiritual essence of Lumbini and learn more about Buddhism from experienced teachers. Make sure to book your spot in advance, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple situated at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lumbini, Nepal. It is the main temple at Lumbini, a site traditionally considered the birthplace of Gautama Buddha.
Learn more Book this experience 6 km away
World Peace Pagoda, also called Nipponzan Peace Pagoda, is a Buddhist monument in Lumbini, Nepal. It was designed and built by Japanese Buddhists at a cost about a million US dollars.
Learn moreGet information on luxury trips in Nepal and the Restricted Area Permit (RAP) requirements in Nepal. Learn about the regions that require a RAP and the application process.
Learn more 32 km away
Butwal, officially Butwal Sub-Metropolitan City, is a sub-metropolitan city and economic hub in Lumbini Province in West Nepal. Butwal has a city population of 195,054 as per 2021 Nepal census.
Learn moreDiscover the best tours and activities around Lumbini, Nepal and book your travel experience today with our booking partners
Discover the best hotels around Lumbini, Nepal and book your stay today with our booking partner booking.com
Click on the pictures to learn more about the places and to get directions
Discover more travel spots to explore around Lumbini
🗼 Landmark spotsExplore popular touristic places around Lumbini