Sri Lanka’s Giant Baobab Tree – A Rare Wonder in Mannar
The most well-known and largest baobab tree in Sri Lanka is located in Mannar, according to a travel website. It’s known as the “Ali Gaha or Elephant Tree” due to its rough bark resembling elephant skin. This particular baobab is estimated to be around 800 years old, with a circumference of 19.5 meters and a height of 7.5 meters.
More about the Mannar Baobab:
- Location:Situated on the northeastern tip of Mannar Island, about 1.2 kilometers from the main town.
- Significance:It’s one of the oldest and largest baobab trees in the country, with a circumference exceeding 19 meters.
- History:Believed to have been introduced to Sri Lanka by Arab traders.
- Protection:Baobab trees in Sri Lanka are protected due to their rarity and antiquity.
- Other Baobab Trees:While the Mannar Baobab is the most prominent, there are other baobab trees in Sri Lanka, including those in Wilpattu National Park and one at Delft Island. it is a non-native species introduced to Sri Lanka by Arab traders centuries ago.
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Written by : thetraveldiary
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