A delegation of mayors from municipalities within the Lumbini Circuit has traveled to Texas, USA, to promote Lumbini as a global tourism destination. This visit is organized in coordination with the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) America and its tourism department.
The mayors will engage in discussions and interactive sessions with U.S. and Nepali communities in Texas, New York, Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. In Texas, the delegation has met with state assembly members, officials from Euless City, and leaders of the Nepali community to discuss long-term cooperation in tourism promotion and cultural preservation.
During a special session of the Texas State Assembly, a resolution was passed in the presence of the visiting mayors, officially declaring a “Lumbini Advocacy Day” to raise awareness about the birthplace of Lord Buddha. The primary objective of the visit is to promote Lumbini as a major global tourist and religious destination. Devdaha Municipality Mayor Dhruba Kharel emphasized that the delegation is working to establish sister-city relations with U.S. municipalities, distribute promotional materials, and invite both Nepali and American citizens to visit Lumbini and explore the Buddhist heritage circuit.
At a reception organized by various Nepali community organizations in Texas, including the Greater Austin Nepali Society and the Lumbini Service Society, the mayors urged second-generation Nepali Americans to visit Lumbini. Kapilvastu Municipality Mayor Sudip Poudel encouraged Nepali families in the U.S. to plan trips to Nepal instead of other foreign destinations, as it would help strengthen their cultural connection and promote Lumbini within the American community.
Ramgram Municipality Mayor Dhanpat Yadav expressed enthusiasm about the visit, stating that it would significantly contribute to spreading awareness about Lumbini as the birthplace of Buddha. The delegation’s itinerary includes meetings with officials in New York, discussions with the NRNA in Virginia, a tourism agreement with BANA (Baltimore Association of Nepali Americans) in Maryland, and talks with the Nepali Embassy in Washington, D.C., to further promote Lumbini as a key global pilgrimage site.
