Lumbini in the Terai fields of Nepal is one of the best journey locales for Buddhists. More than 400,000 Buddhists and non-Buddhist visit Lumbini consistently. It is additionally an UNESCO World Heritage Site (Culture) and holds massive archeological and religious significance. The largest plots in the monastic zone measures 160 meters by 160 meters while the smallest are 80 meters by 80 meters. To the north of the Sacred Garden are religious zones where distinctive nations have manufactured sanctuaries and cloisters portraying diverse orders of Buddhism. Many Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, China, Myanmar, Kampuchea, India, Mongolia, Sri Lanka besides of course Nepal have built monasteries there which are top places to visit in Lumbni. Other delightful monuments and sanctuaries have been assembled by France, Germany, Austrian in the birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini Nepal.
1. Maya Devi Temple
One of the most ancient Buddhist Temples in Lumbini, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Maya Devi Temple is one of the most well-known temples which is known as the birthplace of Gautam Buddha. The temple is situated in the middle of the park grounds called Lumbini Development Zone, it’s continuous developments making it a must-visit attraction.
2. The Bodhi Tree
The Bodhi Tree in Lumbini is located in the premises of the Maya Devi Temple complex right next to the shrine on the banks of the serene Maya Devi Pond. Buddhist monks often sit under the tree meditating and chanting spiritual scripts. The tree is an age-old Peepal tree or Ficus Religiosa clad in colourful prayer flags, Locals believe that wishes made while tying a colourful prayer flag are often granted.
3. Ashoka Pillar
The Ashoka Pillar in Lumbini is one of the 3rd Century stone pillars built under the reign of Emperor Ashoka. It was erected as a mark of respect by Ashoka after he visited Lord Buddha’s place of birth and decided to accept Buddhism. These facts make the pillar a significantly important attraction in the country. It bears the oldest inscription compared to the rest of the Ashoka Pillars, thus marking that it was the first-ever such structure built. The pillar is located inside the serene Maya Devi Temple complex and is quite a stimulating structure to visit because of its interesting and motivating history. This 6-metre tall pink sandstone structure was rediscovered by Nepalese archaeologists in 1896.
4. World Peace Pagoda
Japan Peace Stupa, also known as World Peace Pagoda is an early 21st Century monument – a symbol of peace and a famous tourist attraction in Lumbini. Located outside the main compound, the structure is a glorious stupa with traditional pagoda style architecture. Constructed by Japanese Buddhist at a cost of US $1 million, the monument is coloured white with a golden buddha statue.
5. Lumbini Museum
Located inside the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sacred Garden Area, Lumbini Museum displays about 12000 artifacts including religious manuscripts, metal sculptures, Terra cottas, coins from Maurya and Khusana dynasty and stamps from all over the world depicting Lumbini. Lumbini International Research Institute (LIRI), located opposite the Lumbini Museum, provides research facilities for the study of Buddhism and religion in general. This museum was built in the 1970s and is now reimagined by architect Kris Yao from Taiwan and his team.
6. The Eternal Peace Flame of Lumbini
The eternal World Peace Flame is a major attraction of the Lumbini garden located at the centre of the garden. Tourists flock to observe the flame that is kept glowing uninterrupted 24 hours a day. The flame that represents peace and fraternity in the world was brought from the United States of America as part of the celebration of the International Peace Year.
7. Royal Thai Monastery
Royal Thai Monastery in Lumbini is an imposing and stunning wat-style (Thai Monastery style) monastery dedicated to Buddhist practices. The gleaming building is constructed from white marble and the blue-roofed meditation centre closeby are an example of a fine architectural style. The beautiful designs and carving on the temple wall makes this place a must-visit.
7. Myanmar Golden Temple
Myanmar Golden Temple in Lumbini is the oldest structure of the city. Built in Burmese style of architecture, the temple is dedicated to Lord Buddha. The impressive corncob-shaped shikhara, styled after the temples of Bagan gives a regal look to the whole structure. There are three prayer halls and a Lokamani Pula Pagoda inside the building.
8. China Temple
Zhong Hua Chinese Buddhist Monastery, popularly known as the China Temple is an elegant Buddhist Monastery in Lumbini. The impressive structure is built in a pagoda-style of architecture and resembles the look of the famous forbidden city of China. As one enters, the perfectly manicured internal courtyard fills the heart with peace and joy.
9. Dharma swami Maharaja Buddha Vihar
Dharma Swami Maharaja Buddha Vihar is a Buddhist Gompa belonging to the Sakyapa order. It was established by His Eminence Chogya Trichen Rinpoche. The immense peace and tranquility of the site makes it a perfect place for meditation and quiet introspection. Every day, Tara Pooja is performed by the 600 monks residing in the monastery.
10. Tilaurakot
An important archeological site near Lumbini premise, Kapilvastu, the ancient place where Lord Buddha spent his formative years. Scattered around are foundations of the ancient palace and archeologists have by now discovered 13 successive Layers of human habitation dating back to the eight century BC. A must visit site for archeological and historical enthusiasts. When the Buddha was born, Kapilvastu Tilaurakot was the capital of his father Suddhodhan’s Kingdom. It is 27 Kilometers west of Lumbini. The stupas, monasteries, and the places the Chinese traveler Hwen Sang mentioned in his travelogue more than two millennia ago no longer exist Nepal have preserved the location of the ancient town as a heritage site.