The Indian Express ·
This banyan tree in Bihar is at least 700 years old — and science has finally proved it
A Cambridge University study has accurately dated a banyan tree in Bihar's Munger to around 700 years, replacing folklore with scientific evidence and opening new possibilities for conserving India's heritage trees.
A Cambridge University study has accurately dated a monumental banyan tree in Munger, Bihar, settling a question long answered by folklore. Published on April 26, 2026, the study concluded that the tree is at least 700 years old, making it the oldest accurately dated Ficus benghalensis (banyan tree) in the world. Using advanced radiocarbon dating, researchers analysed wood from the tree’s secondary trunk and primary branch to establish its minimum age, marking a significant breakthrough in dating tropical hardwoods.
The finding has since received official recognition. On July 3, 2026, the Department of Science and Technology confirmed that the Munger banyan had been scientifically dated using radiocarbon methods rather than historical records or local lore, calling it the world’s oldest accurately dated banyan tree.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to.
