History:

is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, or Shiveshwaran. It is situated near Point Pedro beach in the Thondamanaru area of the Point Pedro district of the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. Built during the 16th century, the temple is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva is said to have saved Ravana's son, Meghanad, from the sea. The temple and its surrounding areas serve as an important pilgrimage site for local Hindus. The temple was restored in 1956 by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka. It has been listed as an archaeological protected monument by the government and is now maintained by the Archaeological Department. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Koneswarar Temple, located in the village of Thondamanaru in Point Pedro, Sri Lanka, is one of the oldest Hindu temples in the country, dating back to the 11th century. 2. The temple is believed to have been built by the Chola Dynasty and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. 3. The temple complex consists of several shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities, including Ganesha, Murugan, and Vishnu. 4. The gopuram (entrance gate) of the temple is decorated with intricate sculptures of Hindu gods. 5. The annual Thonnarda Vaikasi Festival is celebrated at the temple every June, drawing pilgrims from across the country. 6. The temple is well known for its spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, with palm trees and white sand beaches providing a stunning backdrop. 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:

Koneswarar temple in Thondamanaru is one of the oldest and most significant pilgrimage sites in Sri Lanka. The deity is Lord Shiva, also known as Konesar. He is believed to have resided at the temple from the time of the ancient kings of Ravana and Vimana. The worship of Lord Shiva is carried out in the Panchayatrarupa (five forms of worship) namely, Homa ( sacrifice ), Nyasa ( recitation of mantras ), Tambula ( offering of betel nut and leaves ),Tharpana ( offering of rice and flowers) and Pradakshina ( circumambulation). Devotees offer flowers, bilva leaves, coins, coconuts, ghee, incense sticks, camphor, sangari (wooden seats for deity), garland, lamp, and other articles as part of their worship. They also perform deepa aradhana (worship by waving of lamps), Abhisheka ( pouring of water and milk on Lord’s body or face ), sama dinga (dancing by worshipper as a symbol of greeting to the deity) and Nama sankirtana (chanting of divine names). Prayers and hymns are recited by temple priests throughout the day. It is considered a great blessing to visit this temple and pay obeisance to Lord Konesvarar. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The Koneswarar Temple is open to public from 6:00am to 12:00pm and 5:00pm to 8:00pm every day. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

The Koneswarar Temple is located in Thondamanaru, Point Pedro in Jaffna district, Sri Lanka, approximately 22 kilometers away from Jaffna Town. The best way to reach the temple is by car. From Colombo, you can take the A3 Expressway and turn onto the A9 Highway towards Jaffna. At Point Pedro, take the B810 and follow the road until you reach the temple. You could also take public transportation, either buses, which run frequently between Jaffna and Point Pedro, or a train from Colombo to Jaffna. famous temples in SriLanka