India’s home to some truly remarkable trees—ancient giants that have seen the country change over centuries. They’re not just survivors or landmarks; they’ve quietly witnessed India’s stories unfold. Getting their exact ages isn’t always easy since a lot of it comes from old tales or patchy records, but scientists have started pinning down the numbers with real testing now. Here’s a look at 10 of the oldest and most iconic trees in India as of 2026.
1. Munger Banyan Tree, Bihar – About 700 Years
In Munger, this banyan holds the title for the world’s oldest accurately dated tree of its kind. Radiocarbon testing backs it up—about 700 years old. That alone makes it pretty remarkable.
2. Juniper Tree, Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh – Roughly 2,032 Years
High up in the harsh, cold desert of Spiti, you’ll find an ancient juniper that’s been around for over two millennia—2,032 years, according to the Vata Foundation. Not much in India is older.
3. Thimmamma Marrimanu, Andhra Pradesh – About 500–550 Years
In Andhra’s Anantapur district, Thimmamma Marrimanu is a banyan tree unlike any other. Its canopy covers multiple acres, supported by thousands of hanging roots. Guinness World Records noticed its size; locals just call it legendary.
4. Pillalamarri, Telangana – Around 700–800 Years
Near Mahbubnagar, Pillalamarri spreads more like a small forest than a single tree. People estimate it’s between 700 and 800 years old, which you can believe when you see it.
5. Parijaat Tree, Kintoor, Uttar Pradesh – About 800 Years
There’s a baobab in Kintoor called the Parijaat, wrapped in legends that make it feel even older than its 800 years (going by scientific tests). People love telling stories about this one.
6. Baobab Tree, Jhunsi, Uttar Pradesh – Around 780–800 Years
Another old baobab stands in Jhunsi, near Prayagraj. Radiocarbon tests put its age at around 780 to 800 years, which is impressive even among a list like this.
7. Adyar Banyan Tree, Chennai – About 450 Years
The Adyar Banyan at Chennai’s Theosophical Society has survived for about 450 years. A huge storm split its main trunk, but its offshoots kept going, so it’s still thriving.
8. Dodda Alada Mara, Karnataka – Roughly 400 Years
Bengaluru’s Big Banyan, or Dodda Alada Mara, looks almost like a whole grove of trees, thanks to its tangled, spreading roots. It’s stood here for about 400 years.
9. Kannimara Teak, Kerala – About 500 Years
Deep in Parambikulam Tiger Reserve, the Kannimara Teak towers nearly 45 meters tall and has made it through about half a millennium. Hard to miss, honestly.
10. Nallur Tamarind Trees, Karnataka – More Than 400 Years
Just outside Bengaluru, the Nallur Tamarind Grove is home to trees that clock in at over 400 years old. Tests prove it—the oldest tamarind here goes back more than four centuries.
These old trees aren’t just patches of green. They’re living history, proof of nature’s staying power when we don’t get in its way. Keeping them around means holding onto pieces of India’s story that are still growing right in front of us.
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