Although the present structure is more recent, a Hindu temple has stood on this site for over 1,000 years. This was originally put in place by the kings who ruled the Jaffna kingdom, but years of contested rule due to colonial invasions led to the temple being burned to the ground and abandoned during the 16th century. In 1732, the present structure was rebuilt and this kovil is now one of the most sacred places for Hindus in Sri Lanka.
- Explore one of the most sacred kovils in Sri Lanka
- Discover the turbulent history of the temple
- Learn about the vibrant rituals of Hinduism
What's Included ?
Host
What to wear ?
Your host will provide you with traditional attire
Experience the beauty and peace of a kovil while exploring traditional Hindu customs and the rich heritage of this site. With a centuries-old history, beautiful Dravidian architecture and colourful temple adornments, there’s much to enjoy here. Most impressive is the five-storied golden gopuram (tower) that stands guard above the entrance. Breathe in the smell of incense and listen to the clanging of bells as you walk through the gate dressed in traditional Tamil clothing. Your host will walk you through the temple, explaining key aspects like the holy pool, large garden, and religious rituals taking place. Be aware that you will need to remove your shoes for this experience, and photographs are strictly banned inside. Women must remain conservatively dressed throughout and men must remove their shirts upon entering the temple.
What is a Kovil, and what can visitors expect to experience during a visit?
A Kovil is a traditional Hindu temple, typically characterized by its vibrant architecture and rich religious symbolism. During a visit to a kovil, visitors can expect to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of the sacred space, explore traditional Hindu customs and rituals, and learn about the temple’s centuries-old history and significance.
What are the dress code and etiquette requirements for visiting a Kovil?
Visitors are required to dress conservatively and respectfully when visiting a kovil. This includes wearing traditional Tamil clothing and removing shoes before entering the temple premises. Additionally, women must remain conservatively dressed throughout the visit, while men are expected to remove their shirts upon entering the temple.
Are there any restrictions on photography or other activities inside the Kovil?
Yes, photography is strictly prohibited inside the kovil to preserve the sanctity and spiritual ambiance of the temple. Visitors are also expected to observe silence and refrain from engaging in any disruptive behavior during their visit, allowing others to worship and meditate peacefully.
“Our visit to the kovil was a truly enlightening experience. The grandeur of the golden gopuram and the vibrant temple adornments left us in awe of Hindu architecture and traditions. Our knowledgeable host guided us through the temple, explaining the significance of each aspect with great detail. The fragrance of incense and the sound of bells created a serene atmosphere, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the spiritual ambiance. We appreciated the dress code and etiquette requirements, which added to the authenticity of the experience. Overall, it was a memorable journey into the heart of Hindu spirituality.”
“Our family had a wonderful time exploring the kovil and learning about Hindu customs and traditions. The architecture of the temple was breathtaking, and the explanations provided by our host were informative and engaging. We were impressed by the attention to detail in preserving the sanctity of the temple, from the dress code requirements to the prohibition of photography inside. However, we wished there were more interactive elements or activities to engage younger visitors. Nonetheless, it was a valuable cultural experience that we highly recommend to others.”
