This is considered as the oldest recorded tree in the world which has a documented history for about 2200 years. This is sapling of the tree under which the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism attained enlightenment. The botanic name of the tree is “Ficus religiosa”. This was brought by Nun Sangamiththa, daughter of Empire Asoka in India during 3^rd century BC with the Buddhism.  Then onward royal patronage was granted to protect the tree. This consider as second most sacred shrine after the temple of the tooth relic in Kandy.