Shakyamuni Buddha was born in Lumbini over 2,500 years ago. A small town in the Terai of southern Nepal, Lumbini stands as one of the four major pilgrimage sites for over 500 million Buddhists around the world. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it hosts monasteries representing diverse Buddhist traditions from many countries.

Tulku Urgyen Rinpoche, the father of Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, envisioned building a “Thousand Buddha Temple” in Lumbini. The purpose was to support a monastic community at the site of the Buddha’s birth and to extend a warm welcome to the hundreds of thousands of international pilgrims who visit annually. In September 2011, Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche initiated the construction of The Thousand Buddha Temple to manifest this magnificent vision.

Now, after over a decade of dedicated efforts, the Thousand Buddha Temple is nearing completion. Crafted in the traditional Tibetan style by a team of esteemed architects and engineers, the construction incorporates modern materials like aluminum frames, double glazing, and solar coating on the temple’s grand windows.

The temple’s grandeur is truly breathtaking, featuring three primary floors symbolizing the Dharmakaya, Sambhogakaya, and Nirmanakaya—representing the three dimensions of enlightenment. It houses three monumental Buddha statues, a remarkable library, and showcases exquisite traditional stonework. This temple is destined to serve as a sacred site for pilgrimage and practice for generations to come.

The level of dedication and love poured into this project by individuals worldwide is profoundly inspiring. The three majestic Buddhas adorning the main temple at Pal Thubten Shedrub Ling Monastery have been consecrated, and the remaining marble flooring in the main hall will soon be installed. The construction teams are now focusing on completing the two distinct dharma quarters—one for monks and another for lay practitioners.

There’s still an opportunity to contribute to this noble endeavor. We extend an invitation to everyone to participate in supporting the construction of this temple, sharing in the merit with even a small offering. Additionally, we welcome supporters of all kinds to join us at the temple’s inauguration later this year.