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Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is an ancient sacred site in Sri Lanka. It is popular because of the oldest living recorded tree across the globe. It is a cutting from the tree under which Gautam Buddha attained wisdom. The sapling is planted as a part of the Bodhi tree in India itself. This site is an essential image for the followers of Buddhism. You can visit this place with your family and friends as a meditative retreat. This site has an immense history associated with it. With other popular sacred sites nearby, this place has surrounding areas worth exploring.
Quick Details About Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Location: Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Sri Maha Bodhiya, Anuradhapura, North Central province, Sri Lanka.
Established: Planted in 288 BCE and is 2300 years old
Height: The height is about 30 m
Origin: Sri Maha Bodhi is a tree brought as a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya by the daughter of Emperor Ashoka, Sangamitta Theri.
Attractions: The main attraction is the sacred bodhi tree which is the world’s oldest recorded tree planted by humans.
Best Time To Visit:November to April
Location
Photo: Hirushini Dematagoda / Wikimedia Commons
The Maha Bodhi is centrally located in the Anuradhapura region of Sri Lanka. As a part of the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, it is a center of Buddhist history and ancient monuments. It is situated in the Mahavihara complex which is a sacred Buddhist monastery complex. This is a well-connected region with a network of roads and is a popular site for travelers and pilgrims to reach.
How To Reach
Photo: Cherubino / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: You can reach Maha Bodhi from all the major cities of Sri Lanka. To reach from Colombo, you can take the A1 highway from Colombo to Anuradhapura. You can cover this journey by private car or bus.
By Air: To reach Sri Maha Bodhi tree by air, the nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. It is about 35 km north of Colombo. As you reach the airport, you can take a private taxi or rent a car to reach Anuradhapura. Public transport is also available.
Things To Do At Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
1. Offer Prayers At The Sacred Tree
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
To reach this place and pray, is a meaningful experience for pilgrims and tourists. This is a spiritual site that connects you with the spiritual journey of Gautam Buddha. It is believed that this place contributes to providing liberation from suffering to the visitors. You can bring flowers, white or yellow, and offer them at the base of the tree. It is seen as a gesture of respect and devotion. Lighting oil lamps or candles is seen as a symbol of dispelling ignorance.
2. Circumambulate Around The Tree
Photo: Cherubino / Wikimedia Commons
In addition to offering prayers, visitors walk around the tree in a clockwise direction as a form of worship. It is a part of Buddhist tradition and a way to accumulate good karma. Visitors believe that it purifies the mind and thoughts of those who perform the ritual. You can also peacefully meditate close to the tree. As you walk, recite the prayers or Buddhist Mantras that help you to align with positive energy. The tree symbolizes the wheel of dharma and provides you with physical and mental purification upon visit.
3. Learn More About Buddhist History
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Lanka has a long and rich history of Buddhism and this site provides a great insight into it. You can learn more about the arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka during the times of King Devanampiya Tissa. As you plan a family trip, you can make your children learn more about the Buddhist teachings and their influence on art, literature, and architecture. Monastic institutions allow you to study the Buddhist scriptures and philosophy. A visit to this place is equivalent to finding a living link to the Buddha‘s teachings.
Places To Visit In & Around Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
You can visit the following nearby attractions:
1. Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Ruwanwelisaya Stupa is a popular revered site in Sri Lanka for Buddhists. It has relics of the Buddha. There is a stupa inside which the relics are present. There are four entrance gateways with stone pillars and a large platform. It is a symbol of cultural heritage where you can visit and participate in the rituals and ceremonies. It includes a visit on full moon days, Vesak and Poson. You can visit and sense the spiritual presence of Buddha on earth as well as meditate for peace.
Location: Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Distance From Maha Bodhi: 2.5 – 3 km
2. Isurumuniya Temple
Photo: PIERRE ANDRE LECLERCQ / Wikimedia Commons
Isurumuniya Temple is a historically significant temple in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It has rock-cut temples with the sculpture of the Isurumuniya lovers. It presents a romantic story that is admired by the visitors. It has a beautiful natural setting with several architectural sculptures and carvings. This is a great treat for those who have an interest in Sri Lankan history and art. This site is also closely related to the development of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
Distance From Maha Bodhi: 1 km
3. Kuttam Pokuna
Photo: Saqib Qayyum / Wikimedia Commons
Kuttam Pokuna refers to the twin ponds in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. These points symbolize the advanced engineering skills in ancient times in Sri Lanka. These are rectangular ponds utilized by the monks for bathing. The larger one is used by the monks of higher status while the smaller is used by others. The water flows from the ponds to the nearby reservoir. It presents the lifestyle of Buddhist monks to the visitors.
Opening Hours: Emerald Hill Road, Singapore 229313
Distance From Maha Bodhi: 3 km
4. Lovamahapaya, Brazen Palace
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
This architectural monument in Sri Lanka holds immense religious and cultural value. It was originally covered with bronze tiles, from where it got its name. It is an impressive structure showcasing the strength and durability of the building. It is a residential monastery and religious center for the practice of Buddhism. It has administrative functions as well. It is an integral part of the sacred city of Anuradhapura and can be visited to gain an understanding of the monarchy and the Buddhist clergy.
Distance From Maha Bodhi: 1 km
5. Abhayagiri Monastery
Photo: Bob Dass / Wikimedia Commons
Abhayagiri Monastery is an important Buddhist monastic complex in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It implies the hill of fearlessness and is a major center of Buddhist learning and teaching. The complex has stupas, meditation halls, and image houses. It has immense architectural beauty for visitors to admire. It is a unique opportunity to dive deep into the rich history and culture of the island. There is a museum that has a collection of archaeological findings that provides knowledge about monastic life.
Distance From Maha Bodhi: 1.5 – 2 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Kurt Kaiser / Wikimedia Commons
Many accommodation options are available near Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, as per your budget. You can stay at the Heritage Hotel Anuradhapura, a mix of comfort and luxury. It has a swimming pool and a restaurant serving delicious food. Cinnamon Lodge Habarana and Rajarata Hotel are two other options. The sanctuary at the Tissawewa is a guest house with close access to all the Buddhist sites. Tissawewa Rest house has all the basic amenities and is about a five-minute drive away.
Where To Eat
Photo: Reza / Wikimedia Commons
Near Sri Maha Bodhi tree, you can eat at the Mango Tree Restaurant, serving Sri Lanka and Asian cuisine. The temple restaurant is a comfortable place to enjoy a wholesome meal. It has both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Green Garden restaurant serves local delicious meals in a garden setting. Sri Lankan buffet options are available at this place. You can also try Bojun Hala and Sapu’s restaurants for delectable meals.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Nipuna Gamage / Wikimedia Commons
The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi observes pleasant weather during December and April. The weather is dry during these times, making it a great time to explore. Consider exploring during early mornings or late evenings. This way you will avoid the crowds too. The surroundings are cooler, providing appropriate conditions to explore with family and friends. The serenity peaks during these hours. If possible, do not explore during mid-day to avoid the intense heat.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost:
The average cost to visit Maha Bodhi for a budget trip may cost INR 33,000 to 55,000. A mid-budget trip may cost around INR 55,000 to INR 75,000. A luxury trip may cost around INR 75,000 to INR 1,00,000. The cost may vary as per your travel preferences, food meals, and transportation.
Tips For Travellers:
- Mornings and evenings are the best times to avoid crowds and heat.
- Shoes and hats must be taken off before entering the temple premises.
- Flowers, incense, and oil lamps are commonly offered as a sign of respect.
- Some areas may have restrictions; ask before taking pictures.
- Bring water, as Anuradhapura can be hot and humid.
The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is an esteemed site to visit, especially for Buddhist pilgrims. The destination has a lot to offer, making it a perfect site to visit this year. You can take your parents, grandparents, and children together to this sacred place in Sri Lanka. Schedule your trip today with TripXL, your travel partner for a hassle-free experience. This exciting trip guarantees an unaltered experience to cherish lifelong.
Cover Photo: A.Savin / Wikimedia Commons
