Lumbini

Introducing Lumbini

Lumbini, also known as the "Hometown of Buddha," is located in Rupandehi District, at the southwest border of Nepal and India, 360 kilometers from Kathmandu. It is the birthplace of Gautama Buddha and one of the main sacred sites of Buddhism.

This is a pristine place. Its people are simple and honest, and the majority of the area is rural, home to the incredibly hardy Tharu people. Every day, countless pilgrims, devout Buddhists, travel thousands of miles, crossing towering mountains and traversing rapid canyons to arrive here, offering gifts and expressing their sincere wishes.

Climate and best time to travel

Lumbini's most important Buddhist celebration is the annual Buddha's birthday, held in April or May, when crowds of Buddhists travel by bus from Nepal and India to celebrate.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

Tickets

200 Indian rupees

Attraction opening hours

6:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Lumbini

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Lumbini, in Nepal’s Rupandehi District, is the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha). It is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists worldwide and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site includes the Maya Devi Temple, ancient ruins, and sacred ponds associated with Buddha's early life.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Located in Rupandehi District, Lumbini, Nepal, near the Indian border.
• Accessible via bus or taxi from Bhairahawa or Lumbini Airport.
• Walking is feasible inside the Lumbini complex.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open daily from early morning to evening (around 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM).
• Best months to visit are October to March, when the weather is mild and dry.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee is approximately USD 10–15 for international visitors. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Local visitors may have a reduced fee.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required; tickets are available at the entrance. Guided tours can be arranged in advance through travel agencies.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan for 3–5 hours to see the main temple, monasteries, and surrounding sacred sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Maya Devi Temple and its archaeological site
• Sacred Garden and Ashokan Pillar
• International Buddhist Monasteries
• Lumbini Museum and Meditation Centers
• Sacred ponds and canal area

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English, Nepali, Chinese, Japanese, and other languages. Audio guides are occasionally provided by travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Front of Maya Devi Temple at sunrise
• Overlooking the Sacred Garden
• From terraces of international monasteries
• Along the canals and ponds for reflection shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at Maya Devi Temple → Walk through Sacred Garden → Visit Ashokan Pillar → Explore international monasteries → End at Lumbini Museum and meditation areas.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not allowed. Special guided meditation tours may be available during festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Peak crowds occur during Buddha Jayanti and other festivals.
• Weekdays and non-festival periods are the least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic toilets throughout the complex
• Rest areas and benches in gardens
• Cafes and small restaurants near the entrance and international monasteries
• Souvenir shops near the visitor center

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

• Generally accessible, with flat walking paths
• Wheelchair users can navigate main areas, but some monastery interiors may have steps
• Children should be supervised around water bodies

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash (Nepalese Rupees or USD) is preferred for entrance and purchases
• Some shops accept cards or mobile payments

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Garden-side cafes serving snacks, tea, and coffee
• Local restaurants near the Lumbini complex serving Nepali and Indian cuisine
• International monastery cafeterias

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian food is widely available
• Vegan options may be requested
• Halal food options are limited but available in some local eateries

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Lumbini Garden Hotel
• Hotel Nirvana
• Hotel Lumbini International
• Guesthouses in nearby Bhairahawa

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Kapilvastu ruins
• Tilaurakot (historical site of Buddha's early life)
• Other monasteries within the Lumbini complex

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Buddhist prayer flags and beads
• Miniature stupas and statues of Buddha
• Traditional handicrafts and postcards

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or bus to Bhairahawa, Lumbini Airport, or other nearby towns
• Private car for onward travel to Tilaurakot or Kapilvastu