History:

is an ancient Shiva temple located in Thenmarachchchi, Jaffna, Sri Lanka, situated about 5 km from the town of Point Pedro. The temple traces its history back to the Great Chola Ruler Parakrama Pandyan who was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to have been built in the year 1206. It is believed to have been built by Parakrama Pandyan to commemorate the victory of his kingdom over the kingdom of Venthanadu. The temple is situated in Thenmarachchi, and is believed to have been built to give thanks to the Lord for his victory over the Kingdom of Venthanadu. The temple is a large one, with an entrance, two inner sanctums and a large courtyard. The main deity of the temple is Lord Arulmihu Gnanavairavar or Lord Shiva, representing the divine grace and power of the supreme lord. Other deities inside the temple include Lord Ganesha, Lord Murugan, Lord Siva, Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna. The temple is famous for its annual festival which is celebrated with great joy and excitement. During the festival, special poojas are conducted, oil lamps are lit and chants and prayers are offered. Other activities during the festival include dance and music performances, a chariot procession and a Kumbha Mela. This temple also attracts a large number of devotees from all over Sri Lanka. One can feel the divine presence inside the temple and the atmosphere is truly calming and spiritual. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Arulmihu Gnanavairavar Temple in Kaithady West, Thenmarachchi is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Skanda or Subrahmanya). 2. The temple is one of the most important temples in the Jaffna district and is an important pilgrimage centre for Hindus from all around the island. 3. The temple is believed to have been constructed by the Chola dynasty in the 9th century. During the early days, the temple underwent many renovations and additions. 4. The main feature of the temple is the 99' Vinayagar (Ganesh) statue, which is believed to be around 700 years old. 5. The temple also features sculptures of Lord Nataraja, Lord Shiva, Lord Murugan, and other forms of Lord Murugan. 6. The temple also has a chariot festival which is attended by thousands of people and marks the beginning of the annual Pongal celebrations in the Jaffna district. 7. The temple also hosts a festival called Aadi Amavasai, a special festival dedicated to Lord Murugan. 8. The temple is open for pilgrims everyday from 5 AM to11 PM and there is no entry fee for the visitors. Here are some facts about the SriLanka temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in SriLanka

Worship Method:

The worship method of Arulmihu Gnanavairavar Temple is focused upon deities such as Shiva, Vishnu, Durga and Lakshmi. The devotional activities include chanting of mantras, offering of flowers and fruits, performing abhishekam (a ritualistic bathing of the deities) and singing of bhajans or devotional songs and hymns. Other reverential practices include lighting lamps, burning incense and reciting stories related to the presiding deities in the temple. On special occasions, larger gatherings of devotees are held and activities may include special prayers such as homas ( Vedic fire rituals) and poojas (prayer ceremonies). Festivals such as Diwali, Pongal and Navaratri are celebrated with special poojas and offerings to the deities in the temple. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The Arulmihu Gnanavairavar Temple in Kaithady West, Thenmarachchi in Sri Lanka is open every day from 7:00 am to 11:00 am and from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

Arulmihu Gnanavairavar Temple is located in Kaithady West, Thenmarachchi, SriLanka. It can be reached by taking local buses from Vavuniya, the nearest city, or from Mannar, the nearest major town. It is also possible to reach the temple by hiring a taxi or by driving oneself. famous temples in SriLanka