BITM begins in Lumbini

LUMBINI: The 2nd Buddhist International Travel Mart (BITM) commenced with great enthusiasm in Lumbini – the birthplace of Buddha – on Thursday.

Bhikshu Metteyya Sakyaputta, the vice chairman of Lumbini Development Trust (LDT) inaugurated the event amid a function at Mayadevi Garden. The three-day mart, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Nepal Tourism Board, and Nepal Association of Tour and Travel (NATTA), began with symbolic lighting of the lamp at the Mayadevi temple.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Bhikshu Metteyya Sakyaputta emphasized the significance of beginning the Buddhist pilgrimage from Lumbini – the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Drawing inspiration from Buddha’s teachings, he stressed that pilgrims from all over the world should embark on their journey from Lumbini to attain spiritual growth.

Tourism Secretary Suresh Adhikari said that the event aims to revitalize the tourism sector which has been severely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Altogether 28 travel and tour companies from Nepal, India, Malaysia, China, South Korea, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, among other countries are attending the mart.

Archaeologist Basanta Bidari provided insights into the historical significance of Lumbini at the Mayadevi temple complex, enlightening attendees about the rich heritage of the region.

The mart is expected to play a pivotal role in attracting tourists to Lumbini, promoting its cultural and spiritual heritage on a global scale.