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Home » Buddhism Detinations in Nepal » Kapilvastu
Kapilvastu
Among the three Buddha destinations of Nepal, Kapilvastu is the place where Gautam Buddha spent his childhood and early family life in the royal palace. It is a holy Buddhist pilgrimage site in Nepal known as modern Piprahwa and located in the Dhaulagiri, Gandaki and Lumbini Zone. It was once the capital city of the Shakya clan and one of the earliest republics in the world. Apart from the Buddhist attractions, the Kapilvastu Buddha Mahotsava is an attraction to the tourists which is celebrated from 29th to 31st December.
At Kapilvastu, Gautam Buddha had the four encounters with an old man, sick man, a corpse and a holy man which led him to his spiritual quest. After seeing the suffering of life, he abandoned the wealth and family and started his spiritual voyage which resulted in the discovery of four noble truths and eight folds of life.
Buddhist Attractions at Kapilvastu
Eastern Stupa Complex :
The Eastern Stupa Complex is the main archaeological site excavated in 1973-74. The seals and inscriptions excavated from this place date back to the golden age of Buddhism.
The Royal Palace :
The ruins of the palace of king Suddhodana, the father of Prince Gautam Buddha are excavated from this place. It was the palace where Gautam Buddha spent his early years of life before embarking his spiritual voyage.
Sri Lankan Monastery :
Sri Lankan Monastery houses a statue of Lord Buddha and offers meditation and other practices of Buddhism.
Mahinda Mahavihara :
Mahinda Mahavihara, a math for Buddhist is named after the son of Ashoka. It offers Buddhist practices.
How to Reach
By Air :
Kathmandu is 262 kms from Kapilvastu. One can reach Katmandu first to reach Kapilvastu. Gorakhpur is 110 kms from Kapilvastu, so one can take a flight to Gorakhpur India first to reach this Buddhist site.
Br Train :
Naugarh railway station is well-linked to Uttar Pradesh. Kapilvastu is 20 kms from Naugarh.
By Road :
One can reach Kapilvastu from Lumbini (27 kms), Kathmandu (262kms), and Kushinagar (148 kms).