"बुद्धजन्मस्थल लुम्बिनी | Birthplace of Buddha, Lumbini"
About:
Lumbini, Nepal, is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site believed to be the birthplace of Lord Buddha in 563 BCE. Ashoka, an Indian emperor, visited in 249 BCE, erecting a pillar marking the site. Over centuries, numerous temples and monasteries were built, but the area declined after the 15th century. Rediscovered in 1896, it was identified as Buddha's birthplace due to Ashoka's pillar. UNESCO designated Lumbini a World Heritage Site in 1997. Today, it's a significant destination for Buddhist pilgrims worldwide.
When to visit:
Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, is a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. The best time to visit Lumbini is during the cooler and drier months of October to March, as the weather is more pleasant for exploring the area. During this time, you can also participate in various Buddhist festivals and ceremonies that take place in Lumbini. However, keep in mind that Lumbini can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so plan your visit accordingly to fully experience the serenity and spirituality of this historic site.
When to avoid:
Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism, is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. The worst time to travel to Lumbini would be during the monsoon season, which typically occurs from June to September. During this time, heavy rainfall can lead to flooding, landslides, and difficult traveling conditions. Additionally, the high humidity and frequent rain showers can impact sightseeing experiences and outdoor activities in the area. It is advisable to plan your visit to Lumbini during the drier months of October to March for a more enjoyable and hassle-free travel experience.
Winter Season (Dec-Feb)
During the monsoon season, June to September, Lumbini, Nepal experiences the wettest period. Daily temperatures average around 30°C, but the humidity is high due to heavy rainfall, which can reach up to 300mm in the peak month of July. The sky is often overcast, with limited sunlight and frequent cloud cover. An average day for a visitor during this season would involve navigating through intermittent showers and enjoying the lush, verdant landscapes. Despite the rain, the rich cultural heritage of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, can still be explored, albeit with an umbrella or raincoat.
"Summer (May–September)"
In Lumbini, Nepal, the warmest part of the year typically falls between April and June. During this period, the average high temperatures range from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F), while the average lows range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
Rainfall during these months is relatively low, especially in April and May, with June seeing the onset of the monsoon season. The average rainfall in this period can vary from 10mm in April to 150mm in June.
Sunlight is abundant in these months, with an average of 10 to 12 hours of daylight per day. However, as June approaches, cloudiness increases due to the upcoming monsoon season.
Humidity levels start to rise in this period, especially in June. It can range from 30% in April to over 70% in June.
A typical day for a visitor during the warmest part of the year in Lumbini would start off quite hot, even in the morning, and temperatures would continue to rise throughout the day. The heat is dry in April and May, but becomes more humid in June. The skies are usually clear with plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploration. However, one should be prepared for occasional thunderstorms towards the end of this period. Despite the heat, the evenings can be quite pleasant with cooler temperatures.
Language:
Nepali is the most commonly spoken language in Lumbini, Nepal, due to it being the official language of the country. However, the region is diverse, and other languages such as Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Tharu are also spoken. In addition, because Lumbini is a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, languages like Tibetan and various Chinese dialects can be heard among the visitors.