Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)
In Nepali: तिलौराकोट (कपिलवस्तु) · Also known as: Kapilavastu · Kapilvastu palace · तिलौराकोट · कपिलवस्तु
Tilaurakot, on the Banganga river, is identified by most archaeologists as ancient Kapilavastu, the capital of King Shuddhodana. Excavations have revealed brick fortification walls, a moat, gateways and the foundations of palaces and houses; recent work has found evidence of occupation going back many centuries before the Buddha.
The eastern gate is traditionally where Siddhartha left the palace on his great renunciation. The site lies in a peaceful grove, with a small museum nearby at Tilaurakot. It is on the UNESCO tentative list.
What to see and do
Walk the ramparts and see the eastern and western gates, the foundations of buildings within the citadel, the moat, and the twin stupas said to commemorate King Shuddhodana and Queen Maya Devi nearby. The Kapilvastu Museum at Tilaurakot displays coins, pottery, toys and ornaments found on site.
Good to know
There is an entry fee. Bring water and sun protection; there is little shade in parts of the site. Combine with Niglihawa, Gotihawa and Kudan in a day trip from Lumbini or Taulihawa.
Quick answers
- Where is Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu) is in Kapilvastu district, Lumbini Province, in the Terai belt of Nepal.
- What is the altitude of Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- About 110 m (361 ft) above sea level.
- How much does it cost to visit Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- For a 3-day trip from Bhairahawa (Lumbini), about NPR 5,000 (≈ US$37) per person on a budget, or NPR 11,000 (≈ US$81) with standard hotels and private transport — for two foreign visitors sharing, including transport, stay, food. Nepali visitors on a budget: about NPR 5,000 per person. These are estimates; adjust them in the trip planner.
- How many days do I need for Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- Plan 1 night there; with travel from Bhairahawa (Lumbini) and back, about 3 days in all.
- Do I need a permit or ticket for Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- No special permit or ticket is normally needed.
- When is the best time to visit Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- October–March
- How do I get to Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu)?
- About 1 hour by road west of Lumbini, near Taulihawa. It is about 34 km (straight line) from Bhairahawa (Lumbini).
- What is Tilaurakot (Kapilavastu) called in Nepali?
- तिलौराकोट (कपिलवस्तु)
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