- A Rare Surviving Bodhigara: Nillakgama Bodhigharaya is considered the best-preserved example of a “Bodhigara.” This is a rare type of ancient temple dedicated to a sacred Bodhi tree. Most ancient temples are either stupa-houses or image-houses.
- Exquisite Decorations and Artistry: The temple is celebrated for its elaborate ornamentation. The door frames are particularly well-carved. The structure’s artistic character is not surpassed by any other monument in Anuradhapura.
- Stone-Carved Friezes: The outer base of the temple features a frieze of sculpted elephants. Inside, the central stage is decorated with carvings of lions. An ancient inscription documents a gift of ten of these elephants.
- A Unique Architectural Design: Unlike typical Bodhimaluwas, this is a full temple structure. It was built entirely of granite on two distinct levels. The complex encompasses a 10-meter-long granite square.
- Historical and Spiritual Significance: The temple dates back to the 8th or 9th century. The sacred tree it once held may have been a sapling from the original Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree. This makes it a place of great religious veneration.