Lumbini Development Trust prohibits commercial use of monasteries and vihars

Lumbini, March 18: The Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) has issued a directive prohibiting the commercial use of monasteries and vihars within the Lumbini area.

In an effort to uphold the sanctity of the vihar area, which falls under the jurisdiction of the LDT and serves as a place dedicated to promoting and preserving the teachings of Lord Buddha, the Trust has dispatched letters to all monasteries and vihars.

These letters urge the establishments to maintain the vihar area as a space devoted to Buddhist religious, spiritual, and peaceful activities, rather than engaging in commercial endeavors.

Additionally, the LDT has instructed all vihars in Lumbini to adhere to the regulations outlined in the Vihar Region Regulation of 2058, which includes providing details of foreign nationals residing within their premises.

The Trust has warned of punitive measures if any commercial activities are found to be taking place within the vihar premises.

According to the Lumbini master plan, various countries and Buddhist sects have been allocated land for the construction of vihars. However, concerns have been raised by the Lumbini Hotel Association regarding the misuse of these vihars and monasteries.

They assert that instead of serving their intended purpose of promoting Buddhist ideology and spirituality, some of these establishments are being utilized as hotels for accommodating guests.

The LDT's directive aims to safeguard the spiritual essence of Lumbini and ensure that its sacred sites remain dedicated to their intended purpose of fostering Buddhist teachings and practices.