The Sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi: A Timeless Pilgrimage
Discover the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site that embodies the essence of Buddhist spirituality and Sri Lankan culture.
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura is a revered Buddhist temple and tourist attraction, home to the sacred fig tree believed to be a descendant of the original Bodhi tree. This spiritual haven attracts pilgrims and tourists alike, offering a serene escape steeped in history and devotion.
A brief summary to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- 89VW+WWV, Anuradhapura, LK
- +94252222367
- Monday 6:15 am-9 pm
- Tuesday 6:15 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 6:15 am-9 pm
- Thursday 6:15 am-9 pm
- Friday 6:15 am-9 pm
- Saturday 6:15 am-9 pm
- Sunday 6:15 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and witness the morning rituals of the devotees.
- Dress modestly in respectful clothing, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.
- Take time to explore the surrounding ancient ruins for a deeper understanding of the area's historical significance.
- Bring water and snacks, as facilities are limited near the temple.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and head south on Station Road. Continue straight for about 1 km until you reach the intersection with New Town Road. Turn left onto New Town Road and walk for another 1 km. You will see the entrance to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi on your right, just before you reach the main road.
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Walking
From the Anuradhapura City Center (near the clock tower), head north on 1st Cross Street. After approximately 500 meters, turn right onto New Town Road. Continue straight for about 1.5 km, and you will arrive at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which will be on your left, marked by large trees and a serene atmosphere.
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Cycling
If you have access to a bicycle, from the Anuradhapura Museum, head north on Museum Road. After about 800 meters, turn left onto New Town Road. Cycle for approximately 1.2 km until you reach Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi on your right. The path is mostly flat and suitable for cycling.
Discover more about Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ancient Lavetory Complex - පුරාණ වැසිකිලි සංකීර්ණය
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Ancient Round Well ඓතිහාසික වට පොකුණ
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King Dutugemunu Pillar දුටුගැමුණු ශිලා ස්ථම්භය
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Unidentified structure
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Samuddhagiri Vihara Monastery
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Isurumuniya clock Tower ඉසුරුමුණිය ඔරලෝසු කණුව
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Pūraṇa Bhikkuṇī Upāsaya පූරණ භික්ෂුණී උපාසය
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Buddhist Railing
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Singha Kanuwa, සිංහ කනුව - Anuradhapura
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Isurumuni Royal Temple
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Royal palace of the anuradhapura kingdom
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North Central Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex
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Anuradhapura Newtown
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Main Image House
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මාස්තොට පිරිවෙන- අභයගිරිය
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Unmissable attractions to see
Maha Viharaya, Anuradhapura
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Lovamahapaya | ලෝවාමහාපාය
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Dakkhina Stupa - Anuradhapura
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Archaeological Museum, Anuradhapura
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya
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Folk Museum
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Anuradhapura Unesco Signage
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Viewing Point
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The Entrance for the Disabled to the Ruwanwalisaya
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Ruwanweli Maha Seya Wheelchair Entry
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Yathuru Pokuna 2 Jetavanaramaya- ජේතවනාරාමය යතුරු පොකුණ 2
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Jetavanarama Museum
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Jethawanarama stone fence ( ගල් ගරාදි වැට)
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Jethawanarama Monastery Complex
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Jethawanaramaya southern pond
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Essential places to dine
Kamu Machan
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Thisavi Rest
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Rangiri Restaurant - Anuradhapura
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Rangiri Restaurant
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Rasa Gedara ( The House Of Taste )
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Restaurant family
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Alankulama Casserole Restaurant Bank Side
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Myburger Family Restaurant
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Sri Gayathri Cafe
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Family Restaurant
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Chamy Restaurant Bank Town
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Carlton
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Seedevi Family Restaurant
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The Walkers Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bikku Gift Center
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Nirmani Dress Point
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Volls
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Multi Emporium
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Signature Showroom
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Walk Way Fashion
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G & G
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ASB Fashion
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US Fashion - Anuradhapura
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DRESS HUB
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CIB Shopping Center - Anuradhapura
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The Factory
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nescafé-Bar
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New Victoria wine stores
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Bamboo restaurant & juice bar
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D night restaurant
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Hotel White House Anuradhapura
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