Lumbini, Nepal
On life’s journey faith is nourishment, virtuous deeds are a shelter, wisdom is the light by day and right mindedness is the protection by night. If a man lives a pure life, nothing can destroy him.
—Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha (563–483 B.C.), father of Buddhism
As a small boy, Buddha likely played in the shade of the beautiful sal trees (Shorea robusta), which grew in the tranquil gardens of the Kolias and Shakya clans of Lumbini. His father, King Suddhodana, belonged to the Shakya clan. Situated near the Sacred Garden is the famous Ashoka pillar, which bears the inscription identifying this sacred site as the birthplace of Buddha.
If you seek the spiritual protection of the Buddha in the way that he sought spiritual shelter through introspection and meditation, come to the Sacred Garden. Even if you don’t, visit Lumbini to experience his enlightening presence; the Buddha dictated that the four holy places of Buddhism would include his birthplace. Lumbini is located roughly 15.5 miles east of Kapilavastu.
Sit under the sal tree that, according to legend, gave support and protection to Maya Devi, the Buddha’s mother, who is said to have reached up and clutched its branch while in labor with her son.
Recent excavation in the Sacred Garden uncovered a stone with the imprint of a foot that is believed to mark the exact spot of the Buddha’s birth.