heritage · Northern
Great Baobab Tree — Mannar
Cover photo: Rafael Peier (Unsplash)
- District
- Mannar
- Province
- Northern
- Best for
- Nature lovers and photographers; centuries-old giant tree by the road
About this place
Enormous baobab near Mannar town, said to be 700-plus years old and planted by Arab traders. Quick roadside stop of 15 minutes; local sellers offer palmyrah snacks nearby. Combine with Mannar Fort on a town circuit.
Visitor brief
Good to know before you go
- Enormous baobab (~19.5 m girth), 700-750+ years old, attributed to Arab traders - largest/oldest baobab in Sri Lanka.
- Quick roadside stop (~15 minutes); archaeologically protected monument - do not carve or climb.
- Local sellers offer palmyrah snacks nearby; small purchases support the village.
- Combine with Mannar Fort on a town circuit.
- Harsh midday sun and no shade facilities - carry water.
How to travel there
Pallimunai village ~1 km from Mannar bus stand; tuk-tuk or short walk from town centre.
Where to stay
Stay in Mannar town (guesthouses to mid-range hotels); the tree is inside the town area.
Nearby places
Mannar Fort, Thiruketheeswaram Kovil, Mannar causeway and lighthouse
Comments & tips