The Maya Devi Temple stands at the heart of the Sacred Garden in Lumbini, over the spot where Queen Maya Devi is said to have given birth to Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. Inside, a marker stone under glass identifies the birthplace. Beside it lie the sacred Puskarini pond and the Ashoka pillar, erected by Emperor Ashoka in 249 BCE with an inscription recording his visit.
Quick answer: Remove shoes at the entrance and walk clockwise. Visit at dawn, when pilgrims chant beneath the prayer flags.
Maya Devi Temple at a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Sacred Garden, Lumbini |
| Marks | Birthplace of the Buddha |
| Inside | Marker stone |
| Nearby | Ashoka pillar (249 BCE), Puskarini pond |
| Status | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
Highlights
- Marker stone of the birthplace.
- Ashoka pillar inscription.
- Prayer flags and chanting at dawn.
Trips and guides
Plan your visit
The Maya Devi Temple is one of the most sacred places in Buddhism. Contact us and our Kathmandu team will help you plan it.