Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
The Sacred Bo Tree - 2,300 Years of Spiritual Heritage
Welcome to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi: The World's Most Sacred Tree
Step into the presence of living history at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred Bo tree that has been growing in Anuradhapura for over 2,300 years! This magnificent tree is not just any ordinary plant - it's a direct descendant of the very Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, India.
Brought to Sri Lanka in 288 BC by Princess Sanghamitta, daughter of Emperor Ashoka, this sacred sapling has witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, survived invasions, and continued to inspire millions of pilgrims from around the world. Today, it stands as the oldest human-planted tree in the world with a recorded history.
What makes this tree truly special is its unbroken spiritual lineage connecting directly to Buddha himself. For Buddhists worldwide, visiting Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most important pilgrimages they can make. The peaceful energy surrounding this ancient tree creates an atmosphere of deep meditation and spiritual reflection.
Whether you're a devoted Buddhist, a spiritual seeker, or someone interested in ancient history and culture, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi offers a profound experience that touches the heart and soul. The tree continues to thrive, its branches reaching toward the sky as they have for over two millennia, offering shade and blessings to all who visit.
Respectful Visiting Guidelines
Sacred Space: This is an active place of worship. Please dress modestly, speak quietly, and remove shoes when entering the inner platform area.
Photography: While photography is generally allowed, be respectful of worshippers and follow any posted guidelines. Flash photography may be restricted in certain areas.
Cultural Triangle Tours (Recommended)
- • Package Tours: 3-4 day Cultural Triangle packages
- • Includes: Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya
- • Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles with guide
- • Best option: Most comprehensive spiritual journey
🌟 Recommended: Ceylanka Tours specializes in Buddhist pilgrimage tours with knowledgeable guides who understand the spiritual significance and can enhance your sacred journey.
Transportation Options
From Colombo
- • Distance: 205km (127 miles)
- • Duration: 4-5 hours by car
- • Cost: $70-100 USD private transport
From Sigiriya
- • Distance: 70km (44 miles)
- • Duration: 1.5-2 hours
- • Ideal: Perfect for Cultural Triangle tour
From Polonnaruwa
- • Distance: 110km (68 miles)
- • Duration: 2.5-3 hours
- • Route: Ancient capitals historical journey
💡 Pro Tip: Visit early morning (6-8 AM) for the most peaceful experience and to avoid crowds. Many pilgrims prefer to meditate during sunrise hours when the spiritual energy is strongest.
Entry Fee
FREE for all visitors
Donations welcome
Opening Hours
5:00 AM - 8:00 PM daily
Special ceremonies on Poya days
Best Time
Early morning or evening
Cooler & more spiritual
The Sacred History of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Historical depiction of Princess Sanghamitta's arrival in Sri Lanka with the sacred Bo tree sapling in 288 BC
A Direct Connection to Buddha
The story begins over 2,300 years ago when Emperor Ashoka of India, after converting to Buddhism, wanted to spread the Buddha's teachings throughout the world. Earlier, his son Arahant Mahinda Thero had already introduced Buddhism to Sri Lanka in 247 BCE through his historic meeting with King Devanampiya Tissa at Mihintale. Following this spiritual foundation, his daughter, Princess Sanghamitta, was chosen for the sacred mission of bringing the sacred Bo tree to complete the spiritual establishment of Buddhism in Sri Lanka.
She carried with her a precious sapling from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India - the very tree under which Prince Siddhartha became the Buddha. This sapling was planted in the royal gardens of Anuradhapura, where it has grown and thrived for over two millennia.
What makes this tree truly remarkable is its unbroken lineage. Unlike many ancient sites that have been rebuilt or restored, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is the same living tree that was planted in 288 BC, making it a direct, living connection to the Buddha himself.
Learn About Buddhism's Arrival in Sri Lanka
Discover the complete story of how Arahant Mahinda Thero brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka and how the sacred Bo tree became part of this spiritual heritage.
Spiritual Significance & What Makes It Special
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi represents the oldest living symbol of Buddhism in the world. For over 2,300 years, this sacred tree has been continuously venerated, making it a unique repository of spiritual energy and Buddhist heritage that cannot be found anywhere else.
Spiritual Benefits:
- • Deep meditation and inner peace
- • Connection to Buddha's enlightenment energy
- • Purification of negative karma
- • Inspiration for spiritual growth
- • Blessings for wisdom and compassion
Pilgrimage Practices:
- • Circumambulation (walking around the tree)
- • Offering flowers, water, and incense
- • Meditation under the sacred branches
- • Chanting Buddhist prayers and sutras
- • Taking the Five Precepts
Throughout its long history, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi has survived invasions, natural disasters, and the rise and fall of kingdoms. Many consider its survival itself to be miraculous, as it has witnessed over two millennia of human history while continuing to grow and flourish.
Historical Challenges:
- • Multiple foreign invasions and wars
- • Natural disasters and weather changes
- • Political upheavals and kingdom changes
- • Periods of neglect and restoration
- • Modern urban development pressures
Protected Features:
- • Golden protective railings around the tree
- • Dedicated temple complex and grounds
- • Round-the-clock security and maintenance
- • Government protection as heritage site
- • International Buddhist community support
Daily rituals and special ceremonies take place at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, creating a continuous atmosphere of devotion and spiritual practice. These ceremonies connect modern practitioners with traditions that have been maintained for over 2,000 years.
Daily Rituals:
- • Morning puja (worship ceremony) at dawn
- • Offering of flowers and water throughout the day
- • Evening prayers and chanting
- • Continuous meditation by pilgrims
- • Oil lamp lighting ceremonies
Special Occasions:
- • Poya Day celebrations (monthly full moon)
- • Vesak festival (Buddha's birth, enlightenment, death)
- • Annual Bodhi Puja ceremony
- • International Buddhist gatherings
- • Meditation retreats and teachings
Your Spiritual Journey Experience
The Sacred Grounds:
- • Beautiful temple complex surrounding the tree
- • Peaceful meditation areas and walking paths
- • Golden railings protecting the sacred tree
- • Lotus pond and traditional Buddhist gardens
- • Small shrine rooms for private meditation
- • Information displays about the tree's history
Spiritual Activities:
- • Quiet meditation under the sacred branches
- • Circumambulation (walking meditation around tree)
- • Offering flowers, water, and incense
- • Participating in group chanting sessions
- • Photography (respectful, following guidelines)
- • Learning about Buddhist teachings from monks
Time of Day:
- • Early Morning (5-7 AM): Most peaceful, perfect for meditation
- • Late Afternoon (4-6 PM): Beautiful light, cooler weather
- • Evening (6-8 PM): Prayer ceremonies, oil lamps
- • Avoid Midday: Very hot and crowded
Special Days:
- • Poya Days: Monthly full moon - special ceremonies
- • Vesak Festival: Most important Buddhist celebration
- • December-March: Dry season, ideal weather
- • Weekdays: Less crowded, more peaceful experience
Practical Pilgrimage Information
Essential Items:
- • Modest, respectful clothing (long pants/sleeves)
- • Comfortable shoes (easy to remove)
- • Water bottle for hydration
- • Small offerings (flowers, incense if desired)
- • Camera (respectful photography)
- • Meditation cushion or mat (optional)
Spiritual Preparation:
- • Open mind and respectful attitude
- • Basic knowledge of Buddhist customs
- • Quiet, contemplative mindset
- • Patience for crowds during peak times
- • Clean restroom facilities available
- • Drinking water stations throughout grounds
- • Small shop for religious items and offerings
- • Parking available for vehicles
- • Information center with English-speaking guides
- • Wheelchair accessibility to main viewing areas
- • Small meditation halls for quiet reflection
- • Security presence for safety and guidance
Other Sacred Sites in Anuradhapura
Magnificent white stupa built by King Dutugemunu in 140 BC. Contains sacred relics of Buddha and showcases ancient engineering.
The first Buddhist stupa built in Sri Lanka (3rd century BCE), housing Buddha's sacred collarbone relic.
Ancient monastery complex that housed 5,000 monks and was a major center of Buddhist learning for over 1,000 years.
Built in 3rd century AD, once the world's third tallest structure. Contains Buddha's sash relic and showcases ancient engineering.
Ancient nine-story monastery built by King Dutugemunu. Once housed 1,000 monks and was covered with copper tiles.
Sacred site where Arahant Mahinda first introduced Buddhism to King Devanampiya Tissa in 247 BCE.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi offers more than just a visit to an ancient tree - it provides a profound spiritual experience that connects you directly with the Buddha's enlightenment energy. Whether you come as a devout Buddhist seeking blessings, a spiritual seeker exploring inner peace, or a history enthusiast fascinated by living heritage, this sacred tree offers something deeply meaningful.
As you stand beneath its ancient branches, you'll join millions of pilgrims who have found peace, inspiration, and spiritual awakening in this sacred space. The tree continues to grow and flourish, just as it has for over 2,300 years, offering its timeless blessings to all who visit with respect and devotion. May your pilgrimage to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi bring you wisdom, peace, and spiritual fulfillment! 🙏🌳✨