This gorgeous city is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, the founder of peace of Buddhism. The city lies 21 kilometers west of Bhairahawa and 285 kilometers southwest of Kathmandu. It is the primary place for pilgrimage by Buddhists and also for peace lovers of any religion in the world. The prime attractions in Lumbini include the Maya Devi Temple with a sacred garden alongside, the temple dedicated to the mother of Buddha, the Ashokan Pillar that points out his birthplace and the holy pond Pushkarini, where the mother of Gautam Buddha is believed to take a holy bath upon her child’s birth, and hundreds of other imposing stupas, gumbas and monasteries around the site, all devoted to its founder.
Apart from all of them, a Monastic Zone has been developed in Lumbini that all relates to Gautam Buddha and his life. These three square miles of flat land are devoted to Buddha, but it also favors all religious acts and encourages peace to all of its visitors. This large area is divided into three major zones. The first one is the Lumbini village, which serves as a gateway to the outer world. The second one is a monastic enclave, where nations, institutions and organizations can build places of worship that reflect their respective religious ideals and styles. A centre for meditation is meant to be the major highlight of this particular zone. The third and perhaps most important zone is a sacred garden where the beauty of its plants exposes a relevant atmosphere for understanding universal message from Lord Gautam Buddha.