Since the Lumbini Development Zone was founded in 1978,Buddhist nations was founded in 1978, Buddhist nations from around the world have constructed extravagant monasteries around the birthplace of the Buddha. Each reflects the unique interpretation of Buddhism of its home nation and together the monasteries create a facinating map of world Buddhist philosophy.The site is extremely spread out, so hire a bicycle in Lumbini Bazar or rent one of the the waiting riskshaws at the entrance to the archaeological zone.Unless otherwise stated, all the monasteries are open daily during dayling hours. Further north is a second group of Mahamaya monasteries, set around an L-Shaped pond.The truly extravagant Great Drigung Kagyud Lotus Stupas was constructed by the German Tara Foundation and the domed ceiling of the main prayer room is covered in some inspired Buddhist murals. Behing the German Monastery is the Sokyo Gompa a Traditional Tibetan –Style gompa built by the Japanese Sokyo Foundation .

The Japan Peace Stupa is situated at the northern end of Lumbini. Built by the Nippon Jon Myohoji of Japan, the 41-m tall edifice is visible from a distance. Four different Buddha statues are set into the stupa-s dome to face the four cardinal directions.