The Kapilavastu Buddhist Site in Siddharthnagar district of Uttar Pradesh is a revered pilgrimage destination deeply rooted in the life of Gautama Buddha. Widely believed to be the ancient capital of the Shakya kingdom, this sacred site is where Prince Siddhartha spent his formative years before renouncing worldly life to attain enlightenment as Buddha. Rich in history, culture, and spirituality, Kapilavastu stands as a testament to early Buddhist civilization and continues to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts from across the world.
Temple About
Kapilavastu is an ancient Buddhist site identified as the capital of the Shakya kingdom. It holds deep religious and historical value as the childhood home of Gautama Buddha.
Temple Description
The site includes ancient stupas, monasteries, and city ruins dating back to the 6th–7th century BCE. Excavations at Piprahwa and Ganwaria have revealed relics and structures believed to be associated with Buddha’s life. The Piprahwa stupa is especially notable for containing relics of Buddha.
Temple Speciality
Childhood home of Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha)
Piprahwa believed to house Buddha’s relics
International Buddhist pilgrimage site
Rich archaeological significance
Temple Address
Kapilavastu Buddhist Site, Siddharthnagar District, Uttar Pradesh – 272207, India.
Location (Latitude, Longitude)
27.5205° N, 83.0556° E
Temple Timings
Open daily: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Temple Sevas
No traditional sevas, but Buddhist prayers, chants, and meditation are commonly practiced by pilgrims and monks.
Traveling Facilities
Taxis, buses, and autos available from nearby towns
Good road connectivity to major cities like Gorakhpur
Food Facilities
Basic vegetarian eateries near the site
More variety available in Siddharthnagar town
Stay Facilities
Guesthouses and tourist lodges in Siddharthnagar
Buddhist monasteries also provide accommodations
Better hotels in Gorakhpur (~90 km)
Nearby Railway Station
Siddharthnagar (Naugarh) – ~20 km
Gorakhpur Junction – ~90 km
Nearby Airport
Gorakhpur Airport (GOP) – ~95 km
Varanasi Airport – ~230 km
Nearby Bus Station
Siddharthnagar Bus Stand
Buses from Lucknow, Gorakhpur, Basti
Bus Routes to Temple
Lucknow → Basti → Siddharthnagar → Kapilavastu
Gorakhpur → Naugarh → Kapilavastu
Train Routes to Temple
Delhi/Lucknow → Gorakhpur/Siddharthnagar → local transport
Varanasi/Kolkata → Gorakhpur → Kapilavastu
Airways to Temple
Fly to Gorakhpur Airport, then taxi/bus to Kapilavastu (2.5–3 hrs)
Nearby Cities
Siddharthnagar
Gorakhpur
Basti
Lumbini (Nepal) – ~25 km
Nearby Visiting Places
Piprahwa Stupa
Ganwaria ruins
Niglihawa
Lumbini (Nepal) – Birthplace of Buddha
Sunauli Indo-Nepal Border
Kapilavastu Museum
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Pleasant weather and ideal for exploration
Shopping – Famous For
Buddhist souvenirs
Local handicrafts and prayer items
Religious artifacts and miniature stupas
Kapilavastu is not just a historical landmark but a spiritual beacon for followers of Buddhism and seekers of ancient heritage. With its serene ruins, revered relics, and close proximity to Lumbini, it offers a unique blend of archaeology and spirituality. Whether you're on a pilgrimage, an educational tour, or simply exploring India's Buddhist circuit, Kapilavastu offers a peaceful and enlightening experience best enjoyed in the cool, pleasant months from October to March.
The Kapilavastu Buddhist Site in Siddharthnagar district of Uttar Pradesh is a revered pilgrimage destination deeply rooted in the life of Gautama Buddha. Widely believed to be the ancient capital of the Shakya kingdom, this sacred site is where Prince Siddhartha spent his formative years before renouncing worldly life to attain enlightenment as Buddha. Rich in history, culture, and spirituality, Kapilavastu stands as a testament to early Buddhist civilization and continues to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts from across the world.
