The Maya Devi Temple and the Ashoka pillar
The heart of the site is the sacred garden around the Maya Devi Temple, named after the Buddha's mother. The temple stands over the place traditionally identified as his birthplace and shelters ancient brick remains. Nearby is a pond where Maya Devi is said to have bathed, with prayer flags strung between the trees.
Close to the temple stands the Ashoka pillar, raised by the emperor Ashoka when he visited Lumbini, with an inscription recording his visit. It is one of the key pieces of evidence for identifying the site.
The monastic zone
Beyond the sacred garden lies the monastic zone, where Buddhist communities from many countries have built monasteries and temples, each in its own national style. Walking between them is a quiet way to see how varied Buddhist art and architecture can be.
The site is large and the distances add up. Ask locally about getting around, and choose a few places to see properly rather than trying to visit everything.
Planning your visit
Lumbini is on the plains, so it can be very hot, especially in the months before the monsoon. Go early in the morning or in the late afternoon, and bring a hat and water. Dress modestly, expect to remove your shoes inside temples, and keep your voice low where people are meditating or praying.
Entry arrangements and opening times can change, so check them locally before you go. Our guide to visiting temples in Nepal covers the general customs.
Getting there from Tansen
From Tansen, the road descends to Butwal and continues via Bhairahawa to Lumbini, roughly three hours in all, depending on traffic and road conditions. A return trip in one day is long, so many travellers spend a night near Lumbini. Our guide to travelling from Tansen to Lumbini has more detail, and a stay at Bulbul makes a calm pause in the hills before or after.