Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)
Sri Maha Bodhi is the oldest historically documented tree in the world β grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, brought to Sri Lanka by Emperor Ashoka's daughter in 236 BCE.
β¨ Historical Significance
Why Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) Matters
Ranked #70 among the world's top 100
UNESCO World Heritage Site (part of Anuradhapura). The oldest living tree planted by human hands, with an unbroken documented history of over 2,200 years.
Built
3rd century BCE
Location
Sri Lanka
Annual Visitors
2 million
UNESCO
β ID: 200
π Plan Your Visit to Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)
Best Season
Dry Season (DecβMar)
Recommended months: December to March (West/South)
Temperature
Average: 27β30Β°C (80β86Β°F)
Visit Duration
Recommended: 1β2 hours
Entry Fee
$5β$15 USD (international visitors may pay more)
Dress Code
Remove shoes before entering. Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid sleeveless tops and shorts. Some temples require long pants/skirts.
Getting There
Located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Reach Anuradhapura by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Anuradhapura center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
π‘ Travel Tips for Visiting Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)
Remove your shoes before entering any temple or pagoda building. Carry a bag for your shoes.
Visit early morning (6β8 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures and golden light for photography.
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Carry small bills for entrance fees and donations.
Language: Sinhala, Tamil. Learn basic greetings in the local language β locals appreciate the effort.
This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site β follow all preservation rules and stay on designated paths.
Best time to visit: December to March (West/South). E-visa (ETA) required.
β Frequently Asked Questions about Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)
Everything you need to know before visiting Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura).
1Where is Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) located?
βΌ
Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) is located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is ranked #70 in our Top 100 World Pagodas list.
2When was Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) built?
βΌ
Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) was built in 3rd century BCE. UNESCO World Heritage Site (part of Anuradhapura). The oldest living tree planted by human hands, with an unbroken documented history of over 2,200 years.
3What is the best time to visit Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)?
βΌ
The best time to visit Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) in Sri Lanka is during December to March (West/South). This is the Dry Season (DecβMar) when weather is most comfortable for sightseeing, with average temperatures of 27β30Β°C (80β86Β°F).
4How much does it cost to visit Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)?
βΌ
Entry fees for Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) are approximately $5β$15 USD (international visitors may pay more). Prices may vary by season and nationality. Check the official website for current rates.
5How long should I spend at Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)?
βΌ
Plan to spend 1β2 hours at Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura). Take time to appreciate the architecture and historical significance.
6Is Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
βΌ
Yes, Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (ID: 200). It has been recognized for its outstanding universal value and is protected under international heritage conservation agreements.
7What should I wear when visiting Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)?
βΌ
Remove shoes before entering. Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid sleeveless tops and shorts. Some temples require long pants/skirts.
8How many people visit Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) each year?
βΌ
Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura) receives approximately 2 million visitors per year, making it one of the popular pagodas in Sri Lanka.
9How do I get to Bodhi Tree Temple (Anuradhapura)?
βΌ
Located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Reach Anuradhapura by domestic flights, trains, or buses from major cities. Local transport (taxi, tuk-tuk, or ride-sharing) available from Anuradhapura center to the site. Check local transport options for the most convenient route.
10Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
βΌ
E-visa (ETA) required. The local currency is Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Sri Lanka is in the UTC+5:30 timezone.
πΊοΈ Explore More Sites
β Previous in ranking
#69 Samye Monastery
Shannan, China
Next in ranking β
#71 Fo Guang Shan
Kaohsiung, Taiwan
π More in Anuradhapura
π³οΈ More in Sri Lanka
Dambulla Cave Temple
π Dambulla Β· π 1st century BCE
Temple of the Tooth
π Kandy Β· π 16th century
Sigiriya
π Sigiriya Β· π 5th century
Mihintale
π Mihintale Β· π 3rd century BCE
Gangaramaya Temple
π Colombo Β· π 19th century
Polonnaruwa
π Polonnaruwa Β· π 12th century
π― Nearby Attractions
- β’Ruwanwelisaya (pagodas #84)
- β’Jetavanaramaya (pagodas #100)
- β’Dambulla Cave Temple in Dambulla
- β’Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
- β’Sigiriya in Sigiriya