Wishing you all a peaceful and blessed Unduvap Poya from Sri Lanka

It’s the last Poya Day of the year and holds significant importance in Sri Lankan Buddhist culture and history.

Unduvap Poya commemorates the arrival of Sangamitta Theri, the daughter of King Asoka of India. Sangamitta Theri brought a sacred sapling from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, India, where Buddha attained enlightenment, and planted it at the Mahamevnawa Garden in Anuradhapura.

Even today, this sacred site is a major Buddhist pilgrimage destination, visited by people of all faiths. The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi holds the distinction of being the oldest human-planted tree in the world, with a documented history spanning thousands of years.

How old? This event happened in 288 B.C. So, it’s thousands of years of history and customs.

Anuradhapura, home to the sacred Bodhi tree, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. It’s not only a Buddhist pilgrimage site but also a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in the ruins of the First Kingdom of Sri Lanka.

Unduvap Poya also marks the beginning of the Sri Pada Season, which continues until Vesak Poya in May. During this period, Buddhists believe that a footprint of Buddha can be worshipped at the site. For both believers and non-believers, Sri Pada peak offers one of the best sunrise views in Sri Lanka.

It’s worth noting that all Poya Days in Sri Lanka, including Unduvap Poya, strictly prohibit the sale of alcohol. Bars are closed, and serving alcohol is strictly forbidden.

That’s Unduvap Poya in short for you.