The tree is a single specimen of Ficus benghalensis that covers roughly 12,000 square meters.
Following the death of the primary trunk, the tree has become a clonal colony where the aerial roots act as secondary trunks to support the massive spread.
The name 'Dodda Aalada Mara' translates literally from Kannada to 'Big Banyan Tree'.
The structure is so dense that it can appear as a forest from a distance, hiding the fact that it is a single plant.
Botanists study the tree as a prime example of the extreme clonal growth habit of the Banyan species.
Dodda Aalada Mara is a giant banyan tree located in the village of Kethohalli, Karnataka, covering approximately three acres. It is estimated to be over 400 years old and functions as a single organism with thousands of aerial roots forming a complex canopy. The original main trunk died many years ago due to natural causes, leaving the sprawling peripheral network as the primary structure. It remains one of the largest banyan trees in India by canopy coverage. The site is a managed tourist location with fenced walkways to protect the root systems. It is surrounded by a rural landscape near the foothills of the Manchanabele Dam region.
From the raised viewing platform near the entrance for a wide-angle perspective of the root canopy.
Wear insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes prevalent in the shaded, humid environment.
Stick strictly to the paved pathways, as the delicate aerial roots outside the enclosure are sensitive to foot traffic.
Visit on a weekday to avoid the heavy crowds that gather during weekends and public holidays.
Feeding the local macaque population, as they can become aggressive and are accustomed to human food.
Maintain silence, dispose of all trash in designated bins, and do not climb or touch the aerial roots.
