Architecture of Lumbini Project

Inauguration Ceremony
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Architectural Style of Lumbini Project

The Mahachaitya is in the form of a grand stupa that houses a meditation hall. Traditionally, the relics of the Buddha and various scriptural texts would be enshrined within the stupa. The stupa represents the dharmakaya, one of the three kayas of the Buddhas (the other two are nirmanakaya or manifestation body and sambhogakaya or enjoyment body). It symbolizes the mind quality of the Buddhas; thus if we prostrate and circumambulate a stupa with single pointed devotion, it is the same as paying homage to the actual Buddha.

It was once spoken by the Buddha that, “Whoever sees, hears (the sound of bells of a stupa) or is touched by the breeze (that blows across a stupa) will gain ultimate liberation.” By prostrating, circumambulating, keeping the environment clean, making offerings to the Mahachaitya, we can accumulate tremendous and countless merits.

Architecturally, L.U.M. stands out among the other monasteries with its thoughtful blending of modern and traditional styles. The shape of the L.U.M. was designed by Rinpoche himself according to the Stupa of Shariputra at the ancient site of Nalanda Buddhist University. Four towers are built at the corners of the base of the Great Stupa, symbolizing that the Stupa is embraced and protected by the blessings of the four immeasurable thoughts: loving kindness, compassion, joy and equanimity. The main hall is just inside the Great Stupa, in which statues of Buddha Shakyamuni and other Buddhas and Bodhisattvas will be enshrined. The wisdom eyes of the Buddha adorn the dome, gazing into the four directions. The thirteen levels of enlightenment and sacred symbols such as the precious umbrella, the victorious banner, etc. will also be engraved on the top of the dome.

As a precaution against earthquakes, Rinpoche required the structural strength of the building to be increased. For the outer walls, a double-layer system was adopted to suit the local weather conditions and to save costs. Architectural designs are integrated with the needs of proper ventilation and natural lighting. LUM’s unique architectural design and its double layer dome structure (constructed locally for the first time) have caught people’s attention. The structural beams are concealed within the floor system, which will help to reduce heat in Nepal’s summer season, as well as to provide a better view of the inner portion of the dome.

The first construction work of L.U.M. was started in the autumn of 2006, and Rinpoche himself paid close attention to every detail. Lack of basic facilities in Nepal has slowed down its construction progress. Facing lack of machinery and equipment, and arduous conditions of frequent power failures and hot weather (temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius), the dedicated workers had to struggle with all kinds of ordeals and hardship. They performed the work of tying steel, mixing cement and nailing the templates all by hand. The grouting work of the dome was the most time-consuming and difficult, as the workers had to transfer the buckets of cement one by one up to the highest part of the dome.

L.U.M. will be one of the most distinctive structures in Lumbini once it is completed. Its central location highlights its significance. From its top, you can glimpse great views of the dome to the World Peace Stupa to the North, and the Lumbini site to the South.