Sri Maha Bodhiya

The southern branch of the sacred tree in Buddhagaya under which Lord Buddha attained the enlightenment, was ceremoniously brought to Sri Lanka by Arahath Sangamitta Maha Theri in 236 BC, with the patronage of Emperor Dharmashoka. The then King Devanampiyatissa planted this Bodhi tree in his royal park 'Maha Meghavana Udyanaya' in Anuradhapura. The highly sacred Bodhi is considered equivalent to the living Buddha and the very sight of it brings serene tranquility to the eyes. The temple where this sacred Bodhi tree dwells is a highly venerated place of worship. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi of Anuradhapura is reckoned to be the oldest living tree of the whole world with a written history.