One of Asia’s best gift to the world is Buddhism. Based on Lord Buddha’s teachings of ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence) &’ Dharma’(truth), Buddhism spread from Nepal and India to the rest of Asia and the world. Lumbini, the Birthplace of Lord Buddha, which lies in Nepal, has become a major centre of pilgrimage for Buddhists worldwide. In an article posted in bbc.com/travel entitled ‘10 Sites of Religious Pilgrimage,’ Lumbini together with Mecca, Vatican City, Golden Temple, Badrinath, Wailing Wall etc. has been listed as the 'must-visit' pilgrimage destination.

In order to promote Lord Buddha’s birthplace and his message of peace, Nepal’s government has declared  year 2012 as Visit Lumbini Year.

Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini during Buddha Purnima (Pic courtesy : NTB)