Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini

About Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini

Lumbini, in the plains of southern Nepal, is revered as the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama. The Maya Devi Temple protects layers of brick foundations going back many centuries and a marker stone said to show the exact spot of the birth. Beside it stands a pillar erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE, whose inscription records his visit and confirms the place.

Pilgrims circle the temple, sit by the Puskarini pond where Maya Devi is said to have bathed, and tie prayer flags in the old trees. A long canal stretches north through the monastic zone, where nations from Germany to Myanmar have built temples. Hindus also honor Maya Devi as a mother goddess here.

What to see

• Marker stone of the Buddha's birth
• Ashoka Pillar with inscription
• Puskarini sacred pond
• International monastic zone and eternal peace flame
• World Peace Pagoda

Visiting Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini: practical guide

Best time

October to March

Hours

Usually 6 am to 6 pm

Entry

About NPR 500 for foreigners; lower for SAARC citizens

Dress code

Modest clothing; remove shoes in the temple

Nearest airport

Gautam Buddha International Airport, Bhairahawa (BWA), 20 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Rent a bicycle or rickshaw to cover the large site
• Visit at dawn for chanting monks
• Summers are very hot and humid

Festivals and special days

• Buddha Jayanti (Vesak)

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
• Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
• Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
• Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
• Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
• Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions