The Lumbini Udyana Mahachaitya Project

Origin of the Project

On July 7, 2006 under the guidance of H.E. Dr. Trungram Gyaltrul Rinpoche, United Trungram Buddhist Foundation Nepal initiated a project of great historical significance, the Lumbini Udyana Mahachaitya Project (L.U.M.) a large scale construction project at the birthplace of the Lord Buddha – Lumbini.

Lumbini is not only the birthplace of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni but is now a sacred place under the auspices and protection of the United Nations, with support of the Nepalese government, and was officially recognized as a United Nations' World Heritage Site. Various countries are building monasteries to serve as pilgrimage centers for the traditions of the global Buddhist community.

Under UTBF, Rinpoche applied for the land from the Nepalese government and his application was accepted soon after in 2005. The Lumbini Udyana Mahachaitya (L.U.M.) Project started with vigorous planning and design work. The main difference between this and the other monasteries representing various countries is that L.U.M. specifically represents friends and devotees of Buddhism whose communities or countries are not represented on the land by any other particular monastery. It will serve the needs of resident Sangha, pilgrims, program attendees and other visitors. The programs offered at the L.U.M. will include regular prayers, short retreats, courses for local and international groups, as well as special retreats for children. It is a sacred place that welcomes all, and its doors are open to all who are interested in finding peace, happiness and wisdom.