In the last few decades, Lumbini has transformed into a tourist destination where every year, thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come and pay homage to Gautam Buddha, the world’s first ambassador of peace.
While Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, has immense religious and cultural significance, the region also hosts thousands of peace-loving tourists from all over the world. Even for those looking to spend a few leisurely hours, the serenity that envelops the area makes it an ideal destination.
Lumbini boasts a major collection of pagodas and stupas from all over the world built in reverence to Lord Buddha. Each stupa os distinct in its appeal, and visitors spend most of the hours admiring their architecture. Others can be seen searching for meaning in elaborate murals, some of which cover every nook and cranny s of the walls of the pagodas.
The invaluable collection of statues, murals and artifacts related to Buddhism make Lumbini an open museum for visitors as well as scholars.
However, the most iconic architecture of Lumbini is perhaps the temple of Maya Devi. It is said that Siddhartha Gautam, who would later come to be known as Gautam Buddha, was born on the exact spot where the temple is located today.
In BC 623, when Siddhartha Gautam was born to Maya Devi, the spot was a beautiful garden, it is believed. The temple now has a statue of Maya Devi and also houses artifacts from 5th-7th century BC.
Outside, on the temple premises, the Ashok pillar stands tall beside a pond. Erected in BC 239 by emperor Ashok, the structure has a carving stating that the place is the actual birthplace of Gautam Buddha.
Situated in the southwestern plains of the country, Lumbini’s distance from major towns and cities also makes it suitable for bird-watching. Around 250 species of birds, including endangered species like the crane, are free to fly around the region.
What truly adds to the appeal of the region is the distinct charm it exudes in its amalgamation of bucolic beauty, religious significance, and varied architecture.