In the foothills of the Himalayas in southern Nepal sits Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. The entirety of Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout Lumbini there are temples, monasteries, and stupas built by Buddhist communities from countries around the world, which are all located in an area surrounding the birthplace of Buddha that is known as the monastic zone. There are no shops, restaurants, or hotels allowed to be built within this sacred zone.
Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the sacred sites of Lumbini, Nepal with some of my favorite photos from the area. This was one of my favorite stops along my journey through Nepal. Regardless of religion, the concept of these communities from around the world all coming together in this one peaceful place is truly a special experience.
Temples of Lumbini, Nepal
Sri Lankan Monastery
Myanmar Golden Temple, one of the oldest in the monastic zone.
Wat Thai Temple (Royal Thai Monastery)
Another part of Thailand’s temple.
Remember to be respectful and remove your shoes before entering any temple. You won’t be allowed in if you don’t!
Great Drigung Kagyud Lotus Stupa (built by the German Tara Foundation)
A large prayer wheel, used to spread spiritual blessings and wellbeing. The mantra of Avalokiteshvara (a bodhisattva who represents the compassion of all Buddhas) – Om Mani Padme Hum – is traditionally carved on prayer wheels, and one can read the prayers by spinning the prayer wheel.
Zhong Hua Chinese Monastery
Inside the Chinese Monastery
Catching a glimpse of one of the monks walking the grounds.
The World Center for Peace and Unity is not affiliated with any one country. Rather, it is dedicated to Buddhism worldwide.
The Bodhisattva Siddhartha. The finger up in the air is a symbol of peace and unity.
It’s quite a ways to walk from temple to temple, especially on hot days, so opt for a Rickshaw ride instead. Say hi to my friend Jub of Tiki Touring Kiwi!
The Birthplace of Buddha
Maya Devi Temple is an important pilgrimage center and one of the most sacred sites on earth as it is known to be the birthplace of Buddha. The archaeological remains are preserved inside the building where there are no photos allowed.
This spiritual destination is so peaceful and is full of thousands of prayer flags draped between the trees, just outside of Maya Devi Temple. Each color represents a different element – air, fire, water, wind, and earth. They are hung up high so the prayers are carried by the wind.
Maya Devi Temple and the sacred pond where Buddha took his first bath.
The Asoka Pillar, which was erected in 249 BC marking the birthplace of Buddha.
Prayer flags at Maya Devi Temple
Where to Stay
Buddha Maya Garden Hotel is a peaceful place to rest up after a long day exploring the monastic zone of Lumbini. The service was pleasant and the food offered a refreshing variety from many of the same meals eaten along the trip. Check prices on Booking.com to find the best rates for your trip.
Special thanks to the Himalayan Travel Mart, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), and Nepal Tourism Board for facilitating this trip. All opinions are my own.
3 Comments
Kanika Bakshi
October 30, 2017 at 5:23 amI love to travel and explore different places as I think traveling is one of the best ways to tranquilize our soul.I used to think that visiting monasteries and temples is slightly on the boring side.But your article changed my perception towards this.Thank you for sharing.It proved very informative to me!
Carl
August 30, 2017 at 9:41 amThose temples look wonderful. As a person who’s fallen in love with Buddhist monasteries in East and Southeast Asia, I think I’ll definitely have to investigate Lumbini. It’s always interesting how each country’s temples look and Nepal definitely has their own touch, if not the best. Thanks for sharing this!
Marissa Sutera
August 30, 2017 at 6:46 pmDefinitely, I hope you have the chance to experience Lumbini for yourself someday!