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According to the Mahavamsa, the Maha Bodhivamsa (likely compiled in the late 12th century), and the Sinhala Bodhivamsa (a 14th-century Sinhala translation of the Mahabodhiwamsa), eight saplings emerged from the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi in Anuradhapura. These were planted by King Devanampiyatissa at eight designated locations, known collectively as the Ashta Pala Bodhi.
Additionally, from four other twigs, thirty-two (Dethis Pala) saplings are said to have grown—eight from each. One of these was recorded to be planted at a site called Maha Jallika Kevulgama, described as being “near the shore.” While the exact location of Maha Jallika remains uncertain, it is generally believed to correspond to present-day Kalpitiya. However, other interpretations suggest alternate sites such as Kalutara, Trincomalee, or Ratmalana.
Local tradition holds that the Kalpitiya Fort, constructed by the Portuguese, was built over an ancient Buddhist temple. Just outside the fort, near the Vijaya Naval Base, stands an old Bodhi tree, now believed to be the Maha Jallika Kevulgama Dethis Pala Bodhi mentioned in the ancient chronicles.
Today, the care of this sacred Bodhi tree is overseen by the staff of the naval base. In 2018, a Buddha statue was also erected near the tree.
Also See
Map of the Dethis Pala Bodhi of Maha Jallika Kevulgama
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Driving Directions to Dethis Pala Bodhi of Maha Jallika Kevulgama
| Route from Colombo to Dethis Pala Bodhi of Maha Jallika Kevulgama |
| Through: Negombo – Chilaw Distance: 170 km Travel time: 3.30 hours Driving directions: see on Google Maps. |
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