January 1, 2025
Lumbini, the revered birthplace of Lord Buddha, has set a new benchmark in global tourism by welcoming 1,172,304 visitors in 2024. This remarkable figure represents a 17.36% increase from the 998,938 tourists recorded in 2023, solidifying Lumbini's status as an international pilgrimage and cultural hub.
According to the Lumbini Development Trust, domestic tourists accounted for the majority of visitors, with 759,990 Nepali nationals visiting the sacred site. This represents a 15.81% growth compared to the previous year's 656,218. Meanwhile, tourists from India also surged significantly, reaching 300,889, an increase of 12.90% from 266,510 in 2023.
The most significant growth was observed among international tourists holding passports from countries other than India, with their numbers climbing to 111,425, marking an impressive 46.36% increase from 76,210 in 2023.
Among international visitors, Sri Lanka topped the list, contributing 23,569 tourists. Thailand followed closely with 21,496, while China, Myanmar, and Vietnam recorded 13,012, 10,517, and 8,500 tourists respectively.
The comparative data between 2023 and 2024 highlights this significant transformation. In 2023, Nepali, Indian, and other passport holders contributed to a total of 998,938 visitors. By 2024, these numbers had surged across all categories, reflecting the growing appeal of Lumbini on both domestic and international fronts.
Year |
Nepali |
Indian |
Passport Holder |
Total |
2023 |
656218 |
266510 |
76210 |
998938 |
2024 |
759990 |
300889 |
111425 |
1172304 |
Diff. |
103772 |
34379 |
35215 |
173366 |
%Increase |
15.81 |
12.90 |
46.36 |
17.36 |
The increase in tourist arrivals reflects the growing global recognition of Lumbini’s spiritual and cultural significance. Authorities are optimistic about the sustained growth and are actively enhancing infrastructure and services to accommodate the rising numbers.
Lumbini's record-breaking 2024 highlights its emergence as a key destination for spiritual seekers and cultural enthusiasts, setting the stage for further milestones in the years ahead.