Lumbini

Lumbini, in the plains of southern Nepal, is one of the holiest sites in Buddhism, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha, around the sixth century BC. A serene UNESCO pilgrimage site, its sacred heart is the Maya Devi Temple, marking the exact spot of the birth, beside an ancient pillar, a sacred pool and bodhi tree. Around it spreads a vast monastic zone where countries from across the Buddhist world have built beautiful monasteries in their own national styles.

What you actually see

• The Maya Devi Temple - the shrine marking the Buddha's birthplace.
• The Ashoka Pillar - the ancient pillar recording the sacred site.
• The sacred pool and bodhi tree - the serene garden of pilgrimage.
• The monastic zone - the monasteries built by nations worldwide.

When to go

October to March, the cool dry season, is the most comfortable, as the lowland Terai is very hot much of the year. The Buddha's birthday, usually in May, brings pilgrims and celebration, though it falls in the heat.

Honest expectations

It is a serene pilgrimage site rather than a spectacular one, so it appeals most to those interested in Buddhism or seeking a peaceful, reflective visit; the sacred core is modest, the vast monastic zone spread out and best toured by bicycle or rickshaw. It is remote in the hot lowlands, a long way from the mountains, and often combined with Chitwan or a border crossing to India.

Nearby

Chitwan National Park is within reach; the Indian border and Buddhist sites lie beyond.