Mannar Baobab Tree
பெருக்கமரம்
A giant baobab said to have been planted around 1477 by Arab traders, with a girth of nearly 20 metres. It is the largest baobab in Sri Lanka.
This baobab in Pallimunai, northeast of Mannar town, is said to have been brought from Africa and planted around 1477 by Arab traders. Its girth is about 19.5 metres, and it is considered the largest and oldest baobab in Sri Lanka. Local Tamils call it the “Big-Belly Tree.” Its thick grey trunk and sparse crown stand out sharply against the flat sand, and there is a fence and a small management booth. A few dozen other baobabs are scattered across Mannar Island. Entry is free. A tuk-tuk from the town centre takes about 10 minutes. The midday sun is strong, so early morning or late afternoon is best for photos.
Opening hours
Daytime
Nearby sights
- Mannar Fort
- St. Sebastian's Cathedral, Mannar
- Thiruketheeswaram Temple
- Vankalai Sanctuary
- Giant's Tank
- Doric Bungalow, Arippu
- Talaimannar Pier & Lighthouse
- Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu