The short answer
The Mayadevi Temple marking the Buddha's birthplace, the Ashoka Pillar, the sacred Puskarini pond, the Eternal Peace Flame and the Monastic Zone with temples built by many countries.
Key facts
- Birthplace
- Mayadevi Temple
- Ancient marker
- Ashoka Pillar
- Pond
- Puskarini
- Zone
- Eastern and western monasteries
How it works
- Mayadevi Temple and marker stoneThe core of the site, where a marker stone identifies the spot of the Buddha's birth.
- Ashoka Pillar and Puskarini pondA pillar from around 249 BCE records the visit of Emperor Ashoka beside the sacred pond.
- Eternal Peace FlameA flame burning near the pond, a modern symbol of peace.
- Monastic ZoneTemples from Thailand, Myanmar, Germany, Japan, Nepal and more, each in its own style.
Insider tip
Visit the monasteries last. Each reflects its country's architecture and gives the day a gentle ending.
Avoid this
Do not treat it as a checklist. The calm is the point.
Related questions
Is photography allowed?
In open areas yes. Inside the temple, rules apply.
How big is the site?
Several square kilometres. A bicycle or rickshaw helps.
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