Nepal has highlighted the importance of its Buddhist roots and the relevance of Buddhist philosophy for global peace, environmental responsibility and human wellbeing at the International Conference on Buddhism, Spirituality and Science (ICBSS 2026) in Sri Lanka.
Organised by Eurasian Campus in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Nepal Buddhist Association and the Embassy of Nepal in Sri Lanka, the conference focused on the theme ‘Pathway to Global Peace.’
It brought together scholars, Buddhist monks, religious leaders, scientists and researchers to discuss links between ancient Buddhist teachings and contemporary global challenges. The country’s participation also drew attention to the significance of Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautama Buddha, as a centre for Buddhist pilgrimage and tourism.
Nepal highlights Lumbini’s significance in Buddhist heritage
Vijay Kumar Raut, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim of Nepal to Sri Lanka, attended the conference as Guest of Honor and gave concluding remarks following six presentations, which explored Buddhist philosophy, the climate crisis, quantum science, consciousness and reconciliation.
In his remarks, Raut stressed that Buddhism should not only be seen as a legacy of the past, but as a guiding philosophy for building a peaceful future. He highlighted the country’s status as the birthplace of Gautama Buddha and shared Buddhist principles of compassion, interdependence, and mindfulness as potential responses to conflict, environmental degradation, and materialism.
Buddhism connects spirituality with environmental responsibility
The conference discussed how Buddhist teachings could support discussions on contemporary scientific and social challenges. Its presentations explored links between traditional wisdom, spirituality, scientific understanding and global harmony, providing an interdisciplinary perspective on the pursuit of peace.
Raut also drew attention to the connection between the country’s Himalayan environment and global ecological systems, stating that he felt the phrase ‘From Sagarmatha to Samundra,’ i.e., from the Himalayas to the oceans, encapsulated the links between the teachings of Gautama Buddha and environmental awareness and well-being. His remarks highlighted the relevance of Buddhist teachings on compassion and mindfulness to contemporary challenges.
Conference strengthens Nepal Sri Lanka Buddhist ties
The participation of the Embassy of Nepal and the Sri Lanka Nepal Buddhist Association highlighted the long standing religious and cultural connections between the two countries. The conference offered an opportunity for scholars, religious leaders and researchers to hold discussions on Buddhist teachings, scientific research and the promotion of global peace.
The Embassy of Nepal expressed its appreciation to Eurasian Campus, the Sri Lanka Nepal Buddhist Association and the participants for their contributions to the event. It also stressed the importance of Buddhist connections between Lumbini in Nepal and sacred sites in Sri Lanka, including Kandy and Anuradhapura.
Buddhist heritage offers opportunities for spiritual tourism
Nepal’s participation in international Buddhist events could boost awareness of its religious and cultural heritage, particularly of Lumbini, a major centre for Buddhist pilgrimage and spiritual tourism. International academic and religious exchanges also offer opportunities to strengthen cultural and historical connections and promote interest in Buddhist heritage across the South Asian region.
Although the announcement of the conference does not report any changes in tourist arrivals or new initiatives for promoting tourism, the country’s focus on Buddhist philosophy and its international collaboration align with its potential to promote spiritual and cultural tourism. Further collaboration with Sri Lankan religious and academic institutions could strengthen awareness of Nepal’s Buddhist heritage and its value to international visitors.
