Sri Maha Bodhi Tree is one of the most sacred and historic destinations of pilgrimage in the world. This is a living monument as it is a sacred fig tree, Ficus religiosa, closely knit with the island's history relating to the beginning of Buddhism. It has more than 2,300 years of history as a human-planted tree that has a documented history, and the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree is known for attracting thousands of visitors every year- those devotees, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking to dive deep into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
History End
According to the history, Sri Maha Bodhi Tree is said to have come in the 3rd century BCE at the time of King Devanampiya Tissa of Anuradhapura. Another fact is that Emperor Ashoka of India, a great patron of Buddhism, sent his daughter, Sanghamitta Theri, to Sri Lanka with a sapling from the original Bodhi Tree at Bodh Gaya, India. This sacred tree was under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha.
It would be planted in Anuradhapura in elaborate ceremonies within the Mahamewna Gardens upon arrival, being a symbol of this increasingly flourishing Buddhist faith in Sri Lanka. Thousands of followers such as King Devanampiya Tissa took part in planting, signifying that spiritual bonding is deeply set between Sri Lanka and India. For centuries indeed, it forms the central topic of worship under Buddhism and is even an emblem symbolizing strength and wisdom.
Religious Significance
The Sri Maha Bodhi Tree has grown into something much more than a piece of history. It has become alive for Buddhism. It carries the meaning of the enlightenment of the Buddha in reference to Buddhists, and people claim that visiting this site is a very spiritually fruitful encounter. Pilgrims will offer prayers, meditate, and participate in rituals under its shade. Especially on Poya days-full moon days-devotees throng there to fulfill their religious activities.
The tree spiritually inspired many cultural values. It has been a source of prosperity, good health, and rain over the land. The activities surrounding the tree are offering water, flowers, and oil lamps. They represent a tradition which had been preserved for thousands of years.
Architectural and Historical Features of the Site
Decorative buildings with enclosures to shield inside, the tree is dressed by placing on wellmaintained grounds besides golden railings. Century successions of rulers in Sri Lanka had been protecting these trees from natural and manmade perils. Rest of the ancient ruins as a part of this site in the shape of monasteries, stupas stone carvings, among thousands of such ruins, put in such a combination that narrate this majestic past of Anuradhapura.
Some of the major attractions in the complex are:
Golden Fence: This golden fence has been created to protect the tree from all types of destruction since this tree is highly respected and worshiped.
Shrines and Altars: There are several shrines and altars located around the tree where the pilgrims offer their prayers.
Ancient Stone Pillars: It is a proof of the great architectural minds of the ancient Anuradhapura Kingdom.
Conservation Works
The Sri Maha Bodhi Tree is the living expression of the devotion of the Buddhist monks, successive communities of the local people and governmental administrations. For generations now, such protective arrangements have been observed to provide for the tree's survival. Modern preservation includes scientific control, pest control, and structural supports as well.
However, a disaster like earthquake or political riot cannot suppress the spirits of people.
The place was destroyed in 1985 at the hands of brutal violence against its body that is vulnerable but at the same time demonstrated strength in defending Sri Lankan people from its cultural and spiritual heritage in self-defense.
Cultural Influence.
Besides being a symbol of unity among all the Buddhists in the world, it holds significance as a national symbol. It has been a living part of the cultural heritage of the nation. For generations, it inspired Sri Lanka with its artistic expressions, literary pieces, and traditions.
Experience of Tourists
A visit to Sri Maha Bodhi Tree will be pretty enriching. With serene surroundings coupled with spiritual energy in this place, the peace and thought one gets here would surely be of another world. It is essential to dress modestly and also to adhere to all customs and rituals attached to the holy site as they are supposed to be done for visitors here. There are paths, signboards, and guides that would give some insight into the history and importance attached to the tree here.
Travel Information
How to Reach Here
Anuradhapura can be reached by road and railway as well, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. How to get to the city
1.By Air: The nearest international airport is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. It lies around 200 km distance. You may board a local flight from Colombo to reach Anuradhapura, or continue through the road.
2.By Train: Sri Lanka Railways operates regular train services from Colombo to Anuradhapura. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, which gives the traveler the experience of a scintillating countryside.
3.By Bus: Long-distance buses available from cities like Colombo, Kandy, and Jaffna to Anuradhapura. Cheaper but very crowded.
4.By Car or Taxi: This is the most convenient and flexible way of reaching Anuradhapura. One can hire a private car or taxi.
Local Transport
You can use tuk-tuks, bicycles, or hire cars for moving within the city of Anuradhapura and other tourist destinations. Cycles are recommended as it will allow smooth and leisurely discovery of the ancient city.
Hotel Rooms
Anuradhapura accommodates various budgets by offering the range of hotel rooms
Luxury Hotels: Luxury resorts and hotels offer you anything modern, with breathtaking landscapes
Mid-Range Accommodation: Guest houses and boutique hotels that host you within your budget.
• Budget Accommodation: They accommodate backpackers and budget-tolerant visitors.
Best Visiting Time
Best visiting time for dry season from May through September, to both places in general-the weather gets pretty good then and the exploring is lot easier. While getting into all outdoor recreations. And if at such times there are festive celebrations for the Buddhists then one has it for cultural reasons with lots of crowds.
Other attractions in Anuradhapura
While visiting the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, do not forget to visit some of the historical and cultural sites in Anuradhapura.
1.
Ruwanwelisaya: This is among the most iconic landmarks of Sri Lanka and a gigantic stupa that was constructed by King Dutugemunu.
2.
Jetavanaramaya: It was one of the tallest stupa in the world and is considered a marvel in ancient engineering.
3.
Isurumuniya Temple: It contains some of the best rock carvings, and one of those is the very famous "Isurumuniya Lovers."
4. Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna): Very slightly more advanced ancient water management.
5. Abhayagiri Monastery: This is a big monastic complex, and an important center for Theravada Buddhism.