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The oldest human planted tree in the world - JAYA SRI MAHA BODHI

The oldest tree known to have been planted by humans rather than natural sowing is a 2,300-year-old sacred fig or bo-tree (Ficus religiosa) in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, known as Sri Maha Bodhiya. It was planted there around 288 BC. The mother tree from which this specimen was reproduced was none other than the famed Bodhi tree, under which Siddhartha Gautama, the Lord Buddha, sat when he attained enlightenment.

Naturally, because of its spiritual importance, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi holds a special place in the hearts of the world's Buddhists, particularly those in Sri Lanka. Every year, Buddhists from all over the world come to visit and pay their respects to one of the most precious ancient relics of the Buddhist faith.


According to history, Sangamitte Theri, daughter of Emperor Asoka, transported the tree all the way from India to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BC. Sangmitta established her own order of Buddhist nuns in her native Sri Lanka. The tree was then officially planted by King Devanampiya Tissa. It was given prominence of place at Mahamevnawa Park. As time passed, various monarchs and emperors visited the location of the tree and added their own offerings. For example, King Vasabha, who ruled until the first century BC, erected multiple Buddha images surrounding the tree. King Voharika Tissa, who ruled in the third century AD, supplied new copper sculptures.

King Mahanaga, who reigned from 569 to 571 AD, built a water channel all around the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, and King Sena II of the 9th century assisted with the maintenance and preservation of the many sculptures and artifacts left by his predecessors.



Back in the 18th century, a massive wall was built around the tree to protect it from wild elephants, and a golden fence was added in the 20th century.

Throughout the year, Buddhists can be seen visiting the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. Many people conduct pilgrimages to the tree, traveling long distances to view it for themselves, and many individuals leave unique spiritual offerings. Many Buddhists claim that by putting offerings at the tree, they later experience beneficial outcomes in their own lives.

Another ancient practice is to pay a visit to the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi when expecting a child. Buddhists pray to the tree for their infants to be born happy and healthy, while some come to seek remedies for diseases and afflictions. Local farmers present a sample of their first rice harvest to the tree, hoping that it will protect their crops from the elements and animals - SRI LANKA for a reason.


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