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The Nallur Temple is undoubtedly one of the most important Hindu temples in the country. The temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan, is renowned for its grand architecture, vibrant festivals, and profound spiritual significance. Established in the 10th century by Bhuvanekabahu, the temple has undergone several reconstructions, with the last one being in the 18th century under the patronage of the Jaffna Kingdom. Thus, the temple’s history is directly related to the cultural and religious heritage of the area—thereby turning this into a significant landmark for devotees and tourists alike.
Location
Photo: Aathavan jaffna / Wikimedia Commons
Nallur Temple is in the centre of Nallur, a suburb of Jaffna in Northern Sri Lanka. The temple’s address is Kandaswamy Temple Road, Nallur, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. As centrally located, this shrine is easily accessible and surrounded by residential and commercial buildings.
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How To Reach
Photo: Tanathip Rattanatum / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Here are the detailed directions to the place by several modes of transport:
By Road: From Jaffna International Airport, take Kankesanturai Road (A9) towards Jaffna. Reach the Jaffna town and take signs to Nallur. The temple is located on Kandaswamy Temple Road and is easily reachable by car, taxi, or local tuk-tuks.
By Air: The nearest airport is Jaffna International Airport. One can hire a taxi or ride-share service from here to this temple, about 20 kilometres away.
By Train: The Jaffna Railway Station is well connected to Colombo and other major cities. The temple is about a short drive from the railway station, available by taxis or local buses.
Places To Visit Around Nallur Temple
There are many places of interest both in and around Nallur Kandaswamy Temple that speak volumes about this region’s cultural and historical tapestry. Here is a list of places one can visit:
1. Jaffna Fort
Photo: Zameer Akram / Wikimedia Commons
Located near the Jaffna coast, Jaffna Fort is a monumental fortress that represents the architecture of the colonial era. Built by the Portuguese in 1618 and further developed by the Dutch, this fort is one of the country’s historical strongholds. With an area of about 55 acres, it encompasses bastions, ramparts, and other fortifications that have stood against time. A walk through the premises of the fort brings one into contact with the remains of colonial architecture, ancient cannons, and the lagoon view of Jaffna, which cannot be found anywhere else.
Things To Do: Explore the ruins of the fort, take photographs, and enjoy scenic views of the surroundings.
Location: Jaffna, near the coast.
How To Reach: A short drive or a tuk-tuk ride from Nallur Temple.
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2. Jaffna Public Library
Photo: Anton Croos / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the heart of Jaffna is the Public Library of Jaffna, which is an absolute icon of rebirth and rejuvenation of culture. The library was opened in 1933 and was once considered one of the best in Asia. More than 97,000 books and manuscripts were shelved. However, the library was heavily damaged during the civil riots in 1981. The newly built library, opened in 2003, is the ‘Light of Knowledge and Learning.’ It accommodates many books, very rare manuscripts of books, historical documents, and leaf manuscripts. It also provides a noise-free and peaceful environment for reading and research.
Things To Do: Explore the treasure of books and manuscripts stored here.
Location: Jaffna, slightly out of the city centre.
How To Reach: By car or tuk-tuk, easily accessible from Nallur Kandaswamy Temple.
3. Nagadeepa Purana Vihara
Photo: Suraphat Nuea-on / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located on an island called Nagadipa off the coast of Jaffna, Nagadipa Purana Vihara is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. According to available historical documents, this is one of the islands the Buddha visited as part of his second visit to Sri Lanka. The stupa, shrine rooms, and Bodhi tree combine to give the temple complex a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The journey to Nagadipa is an adventure, where one gets a boat ride from the coast of Jaffna that gives a scenic view of the surrounding waters.
Things To Do: Visit the temple and explore the island.
Location: Nagadipa Island, near Jaffna.
How To Reach: Take a boat ride from the Jaffna coast and a short walk.
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4. Keerimalai Naguleswaram Temple
Photo: Ronie Ranjan / Wikimedia Commons
Keerimalai Naguleswaram Temple is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is located next to the famous Keerimalai springs. According to legend, the temple dates back to ancient times when the sage Nagula meditated here and was blessed by Lord Shiva. Intricately carved shrines, a sacred pond, beautiful sculptures—everything testifies to some architectural style: the Dravidian. Pilgrims and visitors take ritual baths in the temple’s springs to cure diseases and participate in religious ceremonies and festivals.
Things To Do: Worship at the temple and bathe in the sacred springs.
Location: Keerimalai, near Jaffna.
How To Reach: A short drive from Nallur Kandaswamy Temple.
5. Casuarina Beach
Photo: Vakeezan / Wikimedia Commons
One of Jaffna’s most beautiful and secluded beaches, Casuarina Beach, lies on Karainagar Island. Named after the Casuarina trees that line its shore, the beach is known for its shallow waters with crystal clear visibility and pristine white sands. This is the perfect place to chill, swim, and indulge in the charm of nature on the coastline. These calm and soft waves make it ideal for families and anyone interested in going for a peaceful retreat. Some beach activities visitors can indulge in are sunbathing under the open blue sky, picnics with breathtaking sea views, and many more.
Things To Do: Swimming, sunbathing, picnicking.
Location: Karainagar Island, near Jaffna.
How To Reach: Drive from Jaffna and take a short ferry ride.
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Where To Stay
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Finding suitable accommodation near Nallur Temple can make all the difference in having a comfortable and memorable stay in Jaffna. Located in the heart of the city, Jetwing Jaffna is one of the finer options for those seeking a fusion of modern amenities with traditional hospitality. For those who want to stay within their budget, Treat Ooo Jaffna offers a clean and comfortable place to stay and friendly service, allowing one to get the best stay without hurting their wallet.
Where To Eat
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When you visit Nallur Temple, you will find many dining alternatives that suit varied tastes and preferences. One of the recommended restaurants has to be Malayan Cafe, a legendary joint serving typical Jaffna-style breakfasts of idiyappam and spicy curries. The other popular haunt is Mangos, with its buffet of authentic vegetarian cuisine defining the region’s tradition.
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Best Time To Visit
Photo: Achyuta T. Madabushi / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Nallur Temple is for the annual Nallur Festival, usually held during July or August. It is one of the most magnificent Hindu festivals in Sri Lanka, spanning 25 days, and thousands of devotees and tourists flock to this city. The weather conditions are also pleasant at the time, making tours through the temple and the surrounding areas perfect. Not only that, early morning and late evening are also suitable times for avoiding the heat during the middle part of the day and feeling the most tranquil atmosphere of the temple.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ISKCON TV Dhaka / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost of the Trip
Entry to the temple itself is free. Transport costs will depend on your mode of travel, and food and accommodation range from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious options. The estimated budget for a one-day visit would range from LKR 2,000 to LKR 15,000.
Tips For The Travelers
- A local guide may be hired to visit the temple and enlighten one about its history and significance.
- While one can take pictures in most areas, seek prior permission before clicking pictures, especially when they involve devotees.
- The best time for a visit will be off-peak hours to avoid the crowds and get some peace relatively.
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Nallur Temple epitomises Sri Lanka’s enhanced cultural and religious heritage. Its magnificent architecture, deep spiritual significance, and vibrant festivals make it a place of great interest for those seeking to discover the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan culture. This temple provides a deep and enriching experience that leaves an indelible mark on the mind. Explore more of Sri Lanka’s wonders with TripXL, your trusted companion for unforgettable journeys.
Cover Photo: Eleleleven / Wikimedia Commons
