2025 Lumbini Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

Anyone who has the opportunity to pay homage to the 4 pilgrimage sites in Nepal, which is the birthplace of the Buddha, besides Maya Devi Temple, there is also a division into international temples, the Theravada and Mahayana sides, separated by a canal on both sides. Mahayana temples have beautiful designs that are no less than Theravada Buddhist temples. There are many temples to visit and pay homage to Buddha images, Mahayana art in both Chinese temples, Tibetan temples, Nepalese temples, and many other provinces.

The Four Sacred Sites are significant locations in Buddhism in India and Nepal, associated with key events in the life of the Buddha: his birth, enlightenment, first sermon, and parinirvana. 1. Lumbini – Birthplace 🌿 Location: Nepal, near the Indian border Significant Event: The birthplace of Prince Siddhartha under the Sal tree over 2,500 years ago Highlights: • Ashoka Pillar, marking the Buddha's birthplace • Maya Devi Temple, built over the birthplace 2. Bodh Gaya – Enlightenment 🌳 Location: Bihar, India Significant Event: The Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree after six years of ascetic practice Highlights: • The Bodhi Tree, believed to be a descendant of the original tree • Mahabodhi Temple, symbolizing enlightenment • Dhamek Stupa and important monasteries from various countries 3. Sarnath – First Sermon 🏛️ Location: Uttar Pradesh, near Varanasi Significant Event: The Buddha delivered his first sermon, the Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta, to the five ascetics Highlights: • Dhamek Stupa, believed to be the site of the first sermon • Sarnath Museum, housing Buddha statues and historical artifacts • Ashoka Pillar, with the remaining base still present 4. Kushinagar – Parinirvana 🏯 Location: Uttar Pradesh, India Significant Event: The Buddha passed away under the Sal tree Highlights: • Mahaparinirvana Stupa, believed to be the site of the Buddha's parinirvana • Parinirvana Temple, housing the reclining Buddha statue • Ramabhar Stupa, believed to be the site of the Buddha's cremation Pilgrimage Itinerary to the Four Sacred Sites You can start from Bodh Gaya → Sarnath → Kushinagar → Lumbini or the reverse route, depending on travel arrangements • From Thailand, you can fly to Kolkata/Varanasi/Gaya and then take a train or bus • There are tour companies that specifically organize 'Pilgrimage Tours to the Four Sacred Sites'

Siddhartha Gautama, the Lord Buddha, was born in 623 B.C. in the famous gardens of Lumbini, which soon became a place of pilgrimage. Among the pilgrims was the Indian emperor Ashoka, who erected one of his commemorative inscribed Ashoka pillars there. The inscription on the pillar is the oldest in Nepal. #lumbini #nepal #Siddtharta

In Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, I stood beneath the ancient Bodhi tree, its leaves whispering centuries-old tales of enlightenment. The serene atmosphere was punctuated by the soft chants of monks, creating a profound sense of peace. Walking along the sacred garden, I touched the sandstone Maya Devi Temple, feeling connected to history. The flame at the Eternal Peace Lamp flickered gently, symbolizing hope. This spiritual journey left an indelible mark, enriching my soul with tranquility and wisdom.

(Kapilavastu) is the name of the capital of Sakka. It is the city of King Suddhodana, the ruler. It is currently in Nepal, bordering northern India. Kapilavastu literally means “the residence of Kapilavastu” because the area where this city is located used to be the residence of a hermit named Kapilavastu. The Sakyas settled here and named this new city Kapilavastu as a memorial to Kapilavastu. #TravelAbroad #4PilgrimagePlaces #Nepal, the Roof of the World

Peaceful place