Lumbini – Today, over 104 runners came together in Tilaurakot for the Maya Devi Trail Run, supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and its partners to promote development of the Maya Devi Trail and highlight tourism in Lumbini. Held on Buddha’s birthday and day of enlightenment, the Maya Devi Trail Run showcased the potential for tourism growth and investment in the region.

The Maya Devi Trail retraces the journey of Queen Maya Devi, the mother of Buddha, who traveled from her palace in Kapilvastu to her parents’ home in Devdaha, ultimately giving birth to Prince Siddhartha in the Sacred Garden.

“The development of the Maya Devi Trail aims to offer a unique experience, allowing tourists from around the world to walk along this historical trail that can pave a path to greater prosperity for the region and country,” said Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. Embassy, Jason Meeks.

Speaking at the event, Lumbini Province Chief Minister Jokh Bahadur Mahara remarked, “This is a first step towards transforming Lumbini through tourism development. We are thankful for USAID’s support to develop and market the Mayadevi Trail. This has also helped the Lumbini Provincial government to prioritize tourism and related activities through fiscal policy.”

In collaboration with the Lumbini Development Trust, the Nepal Tourism Board, Young Innovations, and others, USAID is leveraging innovative technology and partnerships to highlight various tourism assets along the Maya Devi Trail and attract investment from both the private and public sectors.

Since 2022, USAID assistance has helped businesses in the tourism sector generate nearly $7M in sales and catalyzed $11M in new investment for tourism in Nepal.

These efforts include service upgrades in 53 hotels and restaurants in Chitwan, enhancements in 153 community-based homestays, refurbishment of 25 lodges on the Annapurna circuit, and the promotion of the Maya Devi Trail.

This work is an important part of the U.S. Government’s efforts to strengthen Nepal’s inclusive economic growth as the United States and Nepal celebrate 77 years of partnership.