Sri Maha Bodhi
A sacred fig tree, believed to be a descendant of the one under which Buddha attained enlightenment, drawing pilgrims for over 2,000 years.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Sri Maha Bodhi
Best Time
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred fig tree, believed to be a descendant of the one under which Buddha attained enlightenment, drawing pilgrims for over 2,000 years.
"The atmosphere here is truly special – calm, spiritual, and filled with devotion."
🚶♀️ Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially from the car park. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sacred Bodhi Tree
Mahamewna Gardens
A direct descendant of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Feel the ancient spiritual energy.
Evening Illumination Ceremony
Temple grounds
Witness the mesmerizing sight of the tree and temple lit up at night, accompanied by chanting.
Ancient Anuradhapura City
Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum
Explore the broader UNESCO World Heritage site, once Sri Lanka's first capital, with stupas and ruins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Modestly, Be Respectful
Timing is Key for Comfort
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially from the car park. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
⚪ Wear White for Reverence
Many devotees wear white to show respect.
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Beat the heat and crowds by visiting in the morning or evening. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Comfy Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially from the car park. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially during warmer parts of the day. :droplet:
⚪ Wear White for Reverence
Many devotees wear white to show respect.
⏰ Arrive Early or Late
Beat the heat and crowds by visiting in the morning or evening. :clock:
📸 Respectful Photography
Be mindful when taking photos, especially of devotees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sri Maha Bodhi is revered as one of Sri Lanka's most sacred sites, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike with its profound spiritual energy and historical significance. Visitors are moved by the ancient Bodhi tree, the serene atmosphere, and the captivating evening ceremonies. While the site is well-maintained, be prepared for crowds on weekends and holidays, and remember to dress modestly and wear comfortable shoes for the extensive walking.
"Sri Maha Bodhi is one of the most sacred and spiritually significant places in Sri Lanka. It is said to be the oldest living tree in the world with a recorded history, brought from India over 2,000 years ago by Sangamitta Theri. For Buddhists, it is a deeply revered site, as this is a branch of the Bodhi tree under which Lord Buddha attained Enlightenment.
The atmosphere here is truly special calm, spiritual, and filled with devotion. Pilgrims from all over the country come to offer flowers, light lamps, and pray. The temple grounds are well-maintained, and the evening ceremonies with chanting and lights create a deeply moving experience.
Visitors should wear white or modest clothing and be respectful, as this is a living place of worship. It’s best to visit in the morning or evening when the weather is cooler."
Dilma
"One of the most sacred places for Buddhists. The ancient Bo tree inside the golden fence is said to be a branch of the original 'Asathu' Bo tree which was utilised by the lord Buddha on his enlightenment. The place has a huge significance with regard to Sri Lankan history as well.
Very crowded on week ends, holidays and poya days. If you are not a VIP you have to walk about a kilo metre to enter the sacred premises. A must see for foreign tourists interested in Sri Lankan culture and traditions."
Asanka Kumarasiri
"A wonderful and a very huge place covered with a garden and lots of trees and greenery.
Also a very well maintained place.
So the temple here has the direct connection with Lord Buddha.
Here the temple is built around a sacred tree which was taken here as a small plant very long back from the actual tree from India under which lord Buddha has got enlightenment.
This tree is very beautifully preserved and supports the plant with external beautiful pillars as well.
Also there were some old remains available outside of the temple.
Must visit places."
Ashwin Behera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Anuradhapura is accessible by bus or train from major cities like Colombo. From Anuradhapura town, you can hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach the Sri Maha Bodhi site. Many visitors combine it with exploring the wider ancient city. +1
Yes, travel in Sri Lanka, including Anuradhapura, is generally considered easier and more laid-back than in India. Tuk-tuks are readily available for local transport.
There is a car park, but it's a walk from there to the sacred premises. Plan for a walk of about a kilometer.
Many visitors rent bicycles or hire a tuk-tuk for the day to explore the vast UNESCO site, which includes Sri Maha Bodhi and other significant ruins. +1
Yes, guided tours are available and can provide deeper insights into the history and significance of the sites, including Sri Maha Bodhi.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the Sri Maha Bodhi tree itself is a sacred site, there might be a nominal fee for entry into the broader archaeological park or specific museum areas within Anuradhapura. It's best to check on arrival.
The site is generally accessible throughout the day, but it's most atmospheric and comfortable to visit during early morning or late evening hours.
No advance booking is typically required for Sri Maha Bodhi. It's a living place of worship, and entry is usually on a walk-in basis.
Modest clothing is required. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Many visitors opt for white attire. Shoes must be removed before entering sacred areas.
Yes, you can visit on Poya days, but expect significantly larger crowds as it's a very important time for Buddhist devotees.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's believed to be a branch from the original Bodhi tree in India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. It's over 2,300 years old and a major pilgrimage site.
Expect a deeply spiritual and peaceful atmosphere, with pilgrims offering prayers and flowers. The site is well-maintained and beautiful, especially when lit at night.
It can get very crowded on weekends, holidays, and Poya days. Weekdays are generally less busy.
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive shots.
Basic facilities are usually available near major tourist sites in Anuradhapura, including around the Sri Maha Bodhi complex.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the grandeur of the tree itself, the surrounding gardens, and the pilgrims in prayer. The evening illuminations offer unique photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at religious and historical sites to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. It's best to assume it's not permitted.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer people, while evenings provide dramatic lighting with the temple illuminations.
Be discreet and respectful. Always ask for permission if you intend to photograph individuals closely, especially during ceremonies.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide shots of the site and details. A wide-angle lens is great for the stupas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Devout Buddhists
The journey to Anuradhapura is often undertaken as a pilgrimage, seeking blessings and spiritual merit. +1🏛️ History & Culture Enthusiasts
Consider hiring a local guide to unlock the full historical context of the sites. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Living Legacy of the Bodhi Tree
It stands as the oldest living, human-planted tree in the world with a documented history, making it a profoundly significant site for Buddhists worldwide. The tree is meticulously cared for, with external pillars supporting its ancient branches, a testament to its revered status. Visitors often describe an overwhelming sense of peace and spiritual energy upon entering the sacred grounds.
During evening ceremonies, the site transforms into a breathtaking spectacle as the tree and temple complex are illuminated, accompanied by the resonant sounds of chanting.
Exploring the Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Key landmarks within the ancient city include the towering Ruwanwelisaya and Jetavanaramaya stupas, which are among the tallest and oldest in the world.
+1 Exploring these monumental structures offers a glimpse into the architectural prowess and spiritual dedication of ancient civilizations. Anuradhapura is not just a collection of ruins; it remains a vibrant center for Buddhist pilgrimage, with thousands of devotees visiting its sacred sites.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit