First priority area is protecting the identity of Lumbini as the birthplace of Buddha as well as its spiritual atmosphere and environment, along with the other sites around Lumbini that are relevant to the life and history of the Buddha.

UNESCO: OFFICE IN KATHMANDU

The religious monuments are renown also for their evocative murals depicting scenes from the life of Lord Buddha.

UNESCO: MEDIA SERVICES

Buddhists believe it is their duty to make pilgrimages to places of key events in the Buddha's life and Lumbini has already attracted large groups of devotees.

BBC: By Religious Affairs Correspondent Jane Little