Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha is located in Rupendehi district, south west of Nepal. It is one of the important Buddhist pilgrimage sites connected with the life of Buddha. It is listed in the world heritage site by UNESCO in 1997. Lumbini, the main holy land of Buddhism consists of three zones.
The holy garden belongs to the relic protection area, including Mayadevi Temple, The Sacred Pond, Bodhi Tree and Ashoka Pillar.Monastic zone contains temples and places belonging to different countries and institutions.
Remaining zone accommodates lodge, hotels and restaurants. Maya Devi Temple is main attraction of holy garden. A stone image of Mayadevi giving birth to Buddha, as she holds onto a branch is seen in this temple. The Buddha walked seven steps immediately after his birth and on each step the lotus flower blossomed. The footprint of Buddha can also be seen in this temple.
The sacred pond “Puskarni” on the south side of the Mayadevi Temple where Mayadevi is supposed to have taken bath before giving birth to Buddha.
Ashok pillar was built by Emperor Ashoka in 3rd Century BC. On the pillar, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha is written. Lumbini is a heaven where people get relief and forget all the pain while their foot stepped in the birthplace of Buddha.