Lumbini

Lumbini, located in the Terai plains of southern Nepal, is one of the most sacred places for Buddhists worldwide as it is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, who later became Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. According to Buddhist tradition, Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Siddhartha Gautama in 623 BCE while she was traveling from her husband's kingdom to her parent's home.

In 249 BCE, Emperor Ashoka of India visited Lumbini and erected a pillar to mark the exact birthplace of Buddha. This Ashoka Pillar, with its inscription identifying the site as Buddha's birthplace, was rediscovered in 1896 and is one of the most important archaeological evidences confirming Lumbini's historical significance.

Today, Lumbini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage center, where the archaeological remains associated with the birth of Buddha form a central feature. The sacred area is divided into three zones: the Sacred Garden, the Monastic Zone, and the Cultural and Tourist Facilities Zone.

The Sacred Garden contains the Mayadevi Temple, which houses a stone relief depicting the birth of Buddha, and the Ashoka Pillar. The Puskarini Pond, where Queen Mayadevi is said to have bathed before giving birth, is also located within the garden.

The Monastic Zone consists of numerous monasteries built by different countries and Buddhist organizations, each with its unique architectural style reflecting the diversity of Buddhist traditions. The Lumbini Museum and the Lumbini International Research Institute provide insights into Buddha's life and teachings.

Lumbini is not just a historical and religious site; it is also a symbol of peace and harmony. The development of Lumbini as a pilgrimage site is guided by the Lumbini Master Plan, designed by Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, which aims to restore the sacred character of the area while providing facilities for visitors and pilgrims.