The Serene Splendor of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Explore the sacred tranquility of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a revered Buddhist temple in Anuradhapura, home to the sacred Bodhi tree.
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
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is not just a temple; it is a spiritual haven that draws thousands of devotees and tourists alike. Situated in the historic city of Anuradhapura, this sacred site is renowned for housing a sapling of the Bodhi tree, under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment, making it an emblem of Buddhist faith. The temple complex is adorned with intricate stupas, statues, and vibrant murals that reflect the rich tradition of Sri Lankan Buddhism. As you wander through the peaceful gardens, you will witness the devout rituals of local worshippers, including offering flowers and lighting lamps. The atmosphere is permeated with tranquility, making it an ideal place for reflection and meditation. The temple opens early, allowing visitors to experience the serene beauty of dawn as the sun rises over the sacred tree, casting gentle light over the ancient stones. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is also surrounded by several other important historical sites, allowing tourists to explore the broader cultural heritage of Anuradhapura. The nearby ruins, ancient reservoirs, and monasteries enhance the experience, providing a deeper understanding of the area's significance in Sri Lankan history. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or a history enthusiast, a visit to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi promises to be a profound journey into the heart of Buddhism and its enduring legacy in Sri Lanka.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and witness local rituals.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as a sign of respect in this sacred space.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding gardens and nearby historical sites for a fuller experience.
- Be mindful of local customs and practices, particularly during prayer times.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit and head south on Anuradhapura Road. Continue straight for about 1 kilometer. You will pass several local shops and eateries along the way. Look for the signs that point towards Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. After about 15 minutes of walking, you will reach the entrance to the sacred site, where you can see the large Bodhi tree in the distance.
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Walking
If you are starting from the Anuradhapura City Center (near the Clock Tower), head northeast on Kachcheri Road. Continue straight for approximately 800 meters until you reach the Tissa Wewa Lake. Once you reach the lake, turn left and walk along the lakeside path. Follow the signs for Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This route should take about 20 minutes of walking.
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Walking
From the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, which is a well-known landmark, exit the stupa area and head southeast. Walk along the pathway for about 600 meters and you will reach a junction. Take the right turn, and you should see signs directing you to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. The walk from the stupa should take around 10 minutes.
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Cycling
If you have access to a bicycle, rent one from a local shop. Start at the Anuradhapura City Center and ride southwest on Anuradhapura Road for about 1 kilometer. Continue on the main road until you spot the signs for Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. The cycling route should take approximately 5-10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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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
Landmarks nearby to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
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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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Vessagiriya
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North Central Provincial Council Administrative Building Complex
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Lankaramaya | ලංකාරාමය
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Anuradhapura Newtown
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Main Image House