History:

is one of the most famed and oldest temples of Lord Vishnu, which is said to be more than 1000 years old temple. This is one of the few temples where Lord Vishnu is enshrined in the form of a Sri Mahavishnu deity. The temple is located at Parakkaduvai in the Polonnaruwa district of Sri Lanka and is surrounded by lush green hills. The temple is heavily visited by devotees from all around the world. The temple has a rich history and is said to have been built by King Parakrama Bahu I of Polonnaruwa (1193–1199 AD). Legend has it that when Parakrama Bahu I was constructing the temple, a white-colored bull came to his city from a mysterious place with a pearl necklace around its neck. It is believed that this pearl necklace was a gift from the Lord Vishnu Himself. After offering his prayers, Parakrama Bahu I built the majestic temple for Lord Vishnu, following all the rules prescribed by the ancient texts. The temple consists of several magnificent structures including a four-storied gopuram (tower) with a dome on the top and an inner sanctorum called the Garbha Gruha (womb chamber). The inner room of the temple houses an idol of Lord Vishnu in the reclining position. The temple also houses numerous other ancient idols including the idols of Lord Ganesha, Lord Shiva and Lord Indra, which are adorned with intricate carvings. Visitors can enjoy the majestic view of the surrounding hilltops and the lush surroundings of the temple. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Sri Mahavishnu Temple is located in Parakkaduvai, an ancient city in Sri Lanka. 2. The temple is believed to have been built in the 5th century AD by King Pandukabhaya. 3. The temple is dedicated to Lord Mahavishnu, the Supreme Lord of Protection. 4. The temple walls are adorned with beautiful carved stone sculptures depicting the life of Mahavishnu. 5. The temple has an impressive gopuram which stands at a height of 60 feet. 6. The main shrine houses the four-armed seated image of Lord Vishnu. 7. The temple is built on a solid granite rock which is believed to be over 2000 years old. 8. The temple is surrounded by a large pond and is a popular destination for pilgrims from all over Sri Lanka. 9. On special occasions such as Mahavishnu Jayanthi, the temple celebrates a 10 day festival in which various processions take place. 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 at the Sri Mahavishnu Temple in Parakkaduvai, Sri Lanka is a blend of Sinhalese and Hindu traditions. At the temple, the ritual worship of Lord Vishnu is offered by worshippers who follow the Sinhalese Theravada Buddhist tradition. Pohamba offerings are made daily and some sacred rituals are followed each day. Other popular ceremonies include pooja, alo, abhishekam, homams, offering of lamps, and processions. Temple ceremonies also involve the chanting of mantras from the Vishnu Sahasranama and other related texts. During festivals, some special rituals such as rathotsavam, koosirai, and other cultural activities take place at the temple. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The temple is open daily from 6:00am to 12:00noon and from 4:00pm to 8:00pm. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

The Sri Mahavishnu Temple at Parakkaduva in Sri Lanka is located approximately 4 km northeast of Chilaw City in the Puttalam district. The closest airport to the temple is the Bandaranaike International Airport, located just over 200 km away in Colombo. The nearest railway station is the Chilaw Railway Station, less than 5 km away. Buses are the most common way to get to Parakkaduvai from Colombo or Chilaw. famous temples in SriLanka