Munger/Patna: A giant banyan tree in Bihar’s Munger has received scientific backing for its extraordinary age. Researchers have determined that the tree is at least around 700 years old through high-precision radiocarbon dating.
The finding has been published in the journal Quaternary Research. The study was published online through Cambridge University Press on April 23, 2026.
The Ministry of Science and Technology also highlighted the finding on July 3, 2026, noting that the tree’s age was established through scientific dating rather than historical records or local folklore.
Wood Samples Helped Establish the Tree’s Age
The giant banyan, scientifically known as Ficus benghalensis, is located on the premises of Indian Tobacco Company in Munger.
Researchers collected wood samples from the pith, or innermost part of the wood, of an exposed secondary trunk and an old primary branch.
Radiocarbon analysis produced ages of 276±36 years BP and 652±37 years BP, respectively. After analysing and calibrating the results, researchers established a minimum radiocarbon age of approximately 700 years for the tree.
Scientists have specifically described this as a minimum age. This means the sampled portions of the tree are at least that old; the findings do not establish that the entire tree is exactly 700 years old.
Why Dating a Banyan Tree Is Difficult
Determining the age of tropical trees can be considerably more complicated than dating many trees in temperate regions.
Several temperate trees develop clearly defined annual growth rings that can be counted to estimate their age. Banyan trees, however, generally do not provide similarly clear annual rings.
Their distinctive growth pattern adds another challenge. A banyan can develop numerous secondary trunks and aerial roots, making it difficult to determine the age of the entire organism by examining a single trunk.
Scientists Used Advanced Radiocarbon Dating
To overcome these challenges, researchers targeted specific portions of the wood pith from the Munger banyan.
The samples were processed to extract alpha-cellulose, after which scientists used Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) radiocarbon dating.
Modern radiocarbon calibration methods were also applied to the results to establish the age range of the sampled wood.
The methodology provides a scientific alternative to relying solely on local traditions, historical documents or estimates when determining the age of ancient tropical trees.
From Local Belief to Scientific Evidence
The Munger banyan has long been regarded locally as an exceptionally old tree. However, the scientific study did not use these local beliefs as the basis for determining its age.
Instead, researchers relied on physical wood samples and radiocarbon analysis.
The study highlights how scientific dating can help verify the age of heritage trees across South Asia, where estimates have historically often been based on oral traditions and historical accounts.
More Than a 700-Year-Old Tree
The importance of the Munger banyan extends beyond its age.
Large banyan trees can support complex ecosystems through their extensive trunks, branches and root structures. They can provide shelter and food for birds, insects and other organisms.
The Ministry of Science and Technology has also highlighted the ecological and cultural significance of banyan trees, which have long been closely associated with India’s social and cultural traditions.
A New Tool for Studying Heritage Trees
The researchers say the study could have wider significance for understanding other ancient trees in tropical regions.
Accurately determining the age of old trees can help researchers study their longevity, ecological role and historical importance. It may also support efforts to identify and conserve trees that have both natural and cultural heritage value.
The Munger banyan therefore stands out not simply because it is believed to be centuries old, but because radiocarbon dating has provided scientific evidence that its sampled wood is at least around 700 years old.
