Historical background
A sapling from the original Bo tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, brought to Sri Lanka in 288 BCE by the bhikkhuni Sanghamitta. It is the oldest historically authenticated tree in the world with a continuous written record.
Religious significance
Sacred to Buddhists worldwide as a living descendant of the Bodhi Tree. Tended without interruption for over 2,300 years.
Architecture
Raised on a series of gold-railed terraces above the ancient city. The tree is protected by successive walled enclosures added by kings across centuries; the innermost gilded railing is accessible only to senior monks.
Historical timeline
- 288 BCESapling brought from Bodh Gaya by Bhikkhuni Sanghamitta and planted by King Devanampiyatissa.
- 3rd century BCE – presentContinuous guardianship by a lineage of appointed custodians and monks.
- 1966Outer golden railing (Ran Weta) completed.
Cultural importance
The most important Atamasthana site in Anuradhapura and the spiritual heart of Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhism. Every Poya day draws thousands of white-clad pilgrims from across the island.
Visitor experience
Devotees in pure white circumambulate the gold-railed terrace at dawn, offering jasmine and chanting. The hush around the tree, broken only by oil lamps being lit, is unforgettable.
Things to do
- ✦Pre-dawn meditation at the terrace
- ✦Offer oil lamps and white lotus
- ✦Walk between the sacred ruins of the ancient city
- ✦Cycle the Atamasthana eight sacred sites
Visitor information
Interesting facts
- ✦Planted in 288 BCE — the oldest historically documented living tree with a known planting date.
- ✦Grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya, India.
- ✦Brought to Sri Lanka by Sanghamitta Theri, daughter of Emperor Ashoka.
- ✦Protected continuously by Buddhist monks and Sri Lankan kings for over 2,300 years.
- ✦Part of both the Atamasthana and Solosmasthana pilgrimage groupings.
- ✦Receives millions of pilgrims every year, especially during Poya Days and Vesak.
- ✦One of the longest continuously venerated living religious symbols in human history.
