Lumbini, 3 October 2026

Hon. Gita Chaudhary, Minister for Agriculture, Forest and Environment, visited Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha, on 3 October 2026.

Hon. Minister Chaudhary and her entourage were warmly welcomed by Acting Office Head of the Lumbini Development Trust (LDT), Dr. Hari D. Rai, Security Chief Khagendra Kafle and other staffs. On the occasion, Dr. Rai briefed the Minister and her delegation about the historical, archaeological and spiritual significance of Lumbini, as well as the conservation, development and management activities being undertaken by the LDT.

During her visit to the Sacred Garden, the Minister visited the Mayadevi Temple, the sacred birthplace of Lord Buddha, and offered prayers. She also visited the International Monastic Zone, where she observed monasteries representing different Buddhist traditions and countries and learned about their role in promoting Buddhist heritage, spirituality and international understanding.

The visit provided an opportunity to appreciate Lumbini’s unique heritage and its importance as a global pilgrimage and peace destination. It also underscored the need for continued cooperation among concerned agencies for the sustainable conservation, environmental protection and responsible development of Lumbini.