Located at the Main Road, this historical landmark is an estimated 300 years old and is a gigantic plant towering 30 metres high. One could wander through the sawdust trail at the entrance and be amazed by the maze of thick wooden barks of this ancient tree, enshrouded in rich greenery. The tree is a nesting place for herons, fruit bats and other animals and is a sight not be missed. This tree at Kuramathi can be considered as one of the oldest banyan trees found in the Maldives.
Fast Facts about the Banyan Tree
- A banyan is a fig that starts its life as an epiphyte when its seeds germinate in the cracks and crevices on a host tree.
- Older banyan trees are characterized by their aerial prop roots that grow into thick woody trunks which, with age, can become indistinguishable from the main trunk.
- Aptly named the Banyan tree, it was originated from the word “banians”- Indian traders who carry out their businesses under the tree.
- The underground roots of a banyan species found in the Amazon are known to fulfil medicinal purposes. They are cut into 10 cm lengths, dried and smoked regularly to relieve pain.
- Alexander the Great is said to have camped under a banyan tree that was big enough to shelter his whole army of 7,000 men.
You will also find a “Plants of Kuramathi” placard adjacent to the 300 year old Banyan Tree, a brief yet informative display of this incredible plant.
