Lumbini, recognized as the birthplace of Buddha and often referred to as the light of Asia, is situated in the Terai region, approximately 250 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu, the nation’s capital. In 1997 AD, Lumbini was inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Visitors can explore a variety of Buddhist monasteries, including those from Nepal, China, Thailand, and more. If you seek to immerse yourself in the wisdom and teachings of Buddha, Lumbini is the destination for you. A key highlight of Lumbini is the Sacred Garden, featuring the Mayadevi Temple located to the west and the Ashoka Pillar, which was erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BC to commemorate his visit to this sacred site. The inscriptions on the pillar, written in Brahmi script, verify that Lumbini is the birthplace of Buddha in 623 BC. Additionally, to the south of the Pillar lies the revered pond Puskarni, where Queen Mayadevi bathed just prior to giving birth to the Buddha. The Lumbini tour allows for visits to various spiritual and archaeological sites such as Tilaurakot, Gotihawa, Kudan, Siddharthanagar, Niglihara, Sagarhawam, and Aurorakot. Tilaurakot is the ancient capital of the Shakyas known as Kapilavastu, where it is believed Buddha spent his first 29 years. Kudan was constructed by King Sudhodhana to provide a space for Buddha and his disciples following his enlightenment.
Alternative Itinerary
Day 01: Travel by car or bus to the rafting launch point on the Trisuli River, enjoy about 3 hours of rafting, and then proceed to Chitwan National Park, with accommodation in Sauraha.
Day 02: Experience a full day in the National Park with accommodations.
Day 03: Start the day with early morning birdwatching, then after breakfast, transfer to Lumbini (the birthplace of Buddha), followed by sightseeing in Lumbini, and drive for 2 hours to Palpa, Tansen, with accommodation at Srinagar Resort (BB Plan).
Day 04: After sunrise, savor your breakfast before driving to Pokhara, approximately 4 hours, followed by accommodation, and in the afternoon enjoy sightseeing in Pokhara (Devi’s Fall, Gupteswori Cave, World Peace Stupa, Mountain Museum, Tibetan Refugee Camp).
