Explore the Serene Spirit of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
Discover tranquility at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest living Buddhist relic in the world, surrounded by serene gardens and rich history.
A brief summary to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
- 89VW+WWV, Anuradhapura, LK
- +94252222367
Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi stands as a testament to the enduring spiritual legacy of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. This sacred site is home to what is believed to be the oldest living tree in the world, a sapling of the Bodhi tree under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment over 2,500 years ago. Visitors to this revered location will find themselves enveloped in an atmosphere of deep reverence, as both locals and pilgrims come to pay their respects. The tree is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens, adorned with colorful flags and vibrant flowers, creating a picturesque setting that invites contemplation and reflection. The temple complex is also an architectural marvel, featuring intricately carved statues, ornate stupas, and serene prayer halls. As you wander through the grounds, you can witness daily rituals, where monks and devotees engage in prayer and meditation. The sound of chanting and the aroma of incense add to the sensory experience, making it a perfect place for spiritual exploration. Be sure to take a moment to sit quietly under the shade of the Bodhi tree, as many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace and connection to the spiritual heritage of the area. For those interested in history, the surrounding area of Anuradhapura is dotted with ancient ruins and archaeological sites, making it an excellent starting point for further exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich past. With its tranquil environment and deep spiritual significance, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is not just a tourist attraction; it is a pilgrimage destination that resonates with the heart and soul of Buddhism.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to experience the serene atmosphere and witness the morning rituals.
- Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the temple to honor local customs.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and the beauty of the sacred tree.
- Try to visit on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and have a more personal experience.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area, as Anuradhapura is rich in historical sites and cultural heritage.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Anuradhapura Railway Station, exit the station and head southwest on Station Road towards the main road. Continue walking straight until you reach the junction with the Colombo-Anuradhapura road (A9). At the junction, turn left onto the A9 road and walk for about 1 kilometer. You will see the entrance to the Sacred City of Anuradhapura on your right. Follow the signs pointing towards Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which is located within the Sacred City. Continue walking for about 500 meters, and you will arrive at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
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Walking
If you are at the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, exit the stupa area and head east towards the main path. Walk along the path for about 300 meters until you reach the main road. Cross the road and continue straight, following the signs towards Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. After about 700 meters, you will find the entrance to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi on your left. Enter the temple complex and follow the path leading to the Bodhi tree.
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Walking
From the Abhayagiri Monastery, exit the monastery and head southwest on the path leading towards the main road. Once you reach the main road, turn left and walk for approximately 1 kilometer. Keep an eye out for the signs for Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi on your right. Once you see the entrance, follow the pathway leading into the sacred area, and you will arrive at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
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