Nepal promotes Buddha

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Buddha was born in Lumbini as Prince Sidhartha. Followers believe he left his family and kingdom and meditated in the jungles of Nepal and India before achieving enlightenment.

Associated Press

LUMBINI, Nepal — Nepal’s president has announced a campaign to lure hundreds of thousands of tourists and pilgrims this year to visit the area in southwest Nepal where Buddha was born.

President Rambaran Yadav made the announcement Saturday in Lumbini, about 150 miles southwest of Katmandu, where Buddha is believed to have been born 2,555 years ago.

Yadav said Nepal was eager to welcome both devotees of Buddha and peace believers to visit Lumbini and spread the teaching of peace in the world.

Buddha was born in Lumbini as Prince Sidhartha. Followers believe he left his family and kingdom and meditated in the jungles of Nepal and India before achieving enlightenment.