Tilaurakot (Ancient Kapilavastu)
The ancient palace site of Kapilavastu where Siddhartha Gautama spent his first 29 years.
Tilaurakot, located approximately 27 km west of Lumbini, is widely identified as the site of ancient Kapilavastu — the royal capital of the Shakya kingdom where Prince Siddhartha Gautama was born and raised. The archaeological site features the ruins of the palace complex, ancient city walls, the Eastern and Western Gates (through which the prince is said to have first encountered old age, sickness, and death), and a museum with excavated artifacts. A half-day excursion from Lumbini to Tilaurakot offers a profound connection to the early life of the Buddha.