Lumbini is one of the major tourist destinations of Nepal, where different development activities
have been going on from different sides. A Master Plan for the Development of Lumbini,
including numerous engineering and archaeological studies was completed in 1978, by an
architect Kenzo Tange that has its objective to restore an area of about 7.7 square kilometers, to
be known as the Lumbini Garden. But the desired targets are yet to be achieved. It is to be noted
that meeting of World Conservation Society held during 1- 6 December 1997 has included
Lumbini as one of the World Heritage Site. It is only one cultural site we have other than the
natural Everest. Need to promote tourism is very important for our country both from economic
and cultural concern. So we are to develop resources i.e. destination promotion to attract visitors
which will give us money as well as recognition to the world. In this regard government of Nepal
has been carrying out Tourism for Rural Poverty Alleviation Programme around Lumbini.