Royal Thai Monastery located in the Eastern monastic zone in Lumbini is a serene white marble structure that offers lunch from 12 to 1 pm daily.

East Monastic Zone

The smaller of the two monastery areas, the East Monastic Zone offers a peaceful environment amongst temples dedicated to the Theravada (Hinayana) school of Buddhism.

The Myanmar Golden Temple is designed to be a smaller replica of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. – © Michael Turtle

The Cambodian Temple has one of the most interesting architectural designs in Lumbini. – © Michael Turtle

In the centre of the large marble Royal Thai Monastery is a small and quiet place for worship. – © Michael Turtle

In 1970, an international committee to manage the development of Lumbini was formed, and Prof. Kenzo Tange of Japan was assigned to create the Lumbini Master Plan, which was approved by the UN and Government of Nepal in 1978. – © Lumbini Development Trust

The Myanmar Golden Temple is designed to be a smaller replica of the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon. – © Michael Turtle

The East Monastic Zone consists of monasteries that represent the Theravada (Hinayana) school of Buddhism. They are built and operated by different countries and, for the many pilgrims who visit Lumbini, they offer respite and spiritual programs in keeping with local traditions.

There are fewer buildings in the East Monastic Zone compared with the area on the western side, and there are currently only five monasteries (with three more under construction) and one meditation centre. With more space between each complex, the forest is thicker and trees line the pathways. There is a strong sense of calm on the eastern side.

The Sri Lankan Monastery has different levels that are connected by staircases and ramps. – © Michael Turtle

Each of the sites reflects the culture and artistic principles of the countries that built them. Most are open to visitors and you can go in and have a look at the public areas. Visiting the buildings in the East Monastic Zone is like taking a journey through some of the most interesting religious architecture of Asia.

One of the most impressive buildings is the Royal Thai Monastery, which is built from gleaming white marble and takes inspiration from the grand wats of Thailand.

The Royal Thai Monastery is made from white marble and is a highlight of the East Monastic Zone. – © Michael Turtle

The Myanmar Golden Temple is designed to look like the famous Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon, while the Sri Lankan Monastery is spread over several levels and is surrounded by a water feature. The Mahabodhi Society Temple of India is small but has beautiful images telling the story of Buddha.

There are five Theravada Buddhist monasteries and one Vipassana meditation centre in operation in the East Monastic Zone while, three monasteries are under construction.

Monasteries of the East Monastic Zone of Lumbini

The Royal Thai Monastery, Thailand
Canadian Engaged Buddhism Association (Bodhi Institute Monastery and Dharma Center) (under construction)
Mahabodhi Society Temple of India
Nepal Theravada Buddha Vihar (under construction)
Cambodian Temple, Cambodia (under construction)
Myanmar Golden Temple, Myanmar
International Gautami Nuns Temple, Nepal
Sri Lankan Monastery, Sri Lanka
Dhamma Janani Vipassana Center, Nepal

Visit

East Monastic Zone

Hours

The monastery temples are generally open each day from 8:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 17:00

Pricing

Most of the monasteries are free to enter, though some ask for a donation.