The Kalutara Bodhiya is a sacred bo tree and it is one of the most treasured Buddhist symbols in Sri Lanka which is visited by hundreds of devotees every day. Read on to know more about the tree and serene place of worship surrounding it.
Overview
Located in within the city limits of Kalutara, in the western province of Sri Lanka, the sacred Kalutara Bodhiya is believed to be one of the 32 saplings of the Jayasri Maha Bodhiya – the bo tree that was brought to Sri Lanka by bikkuni Sangamitta according to legends. The Bodhi tree today is surrounded by a monastery and a stupa and it is visited by devotees from all over the country.
A Bit of History
Chronicles say that the tree was planted in Kalutara by king Devanampiyatissa during the second century BC, According to the chronicle Bodhi Wamsa, 32 saplings that were taken from the Jayasri Maha Bodhi tree which is currently known as the world’s oldest historical tree.
Things to remember when visiting the site
Remember that you are visiting a sacred place and make sure that you switch off your mobile phones. Taking photographs of the tree and the site is okay but keep it to a minimum as it might disturb the devotees. Also, remember to wear white clothes that doesn’t expose much of your skin (clothes that covers your shoulders and knees)
Visiting there
Located close to many resorts and hotels in Kalutara the likes of Gedera resort, the sacred site is easily reachable by a taxi or a tuk-tuk from the town. If you are travelling form Colombo you can reach the Kalutara town by train.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
