History:

is a popular Hindu Temple dedicated to the God Paddivairavar. The temple is situated in a beautiful and serene environment in the Poonakari Village of Eastern Province in Sri Lanka. Every Poonakari Temple has its own festive celebrations such as the Navarathri Vara Utsavam, Dushmika, Tamil New Year, Thiruvathirai Pattu, Kaavadi festival and the famous Paddivairavar Chariot Festival. The temple also has a unique architecture with its beautiful sculptures of the deity and its grand and colorful gates and domes. Paddivairavar Temple is one of the oldest temples in Sri Lanka and is believed to have been built during the 8th century. The temple is visited by devotees from all around the country and even from abroad. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Paddivairavar Temple in Gowtharimuani, Poonakari is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. 2. It is believed to have been built during the reign of King Devanampiyatissa, who ruled the Island from 307 BCE to 267 BCE. 3. The temple is located surrounded by a freshwater lake, and is a popular tourist attraction in the region. 4. The temple is believed to have been built to commemorate the triumph of Lord Shiva's victory over a demon. 5. The temple complex also houses a Shiva Lingam, which is believed to have been brought from India by Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers from the Mahabaratha. 6. The temple is also called Paddivairavar Kovil and its architecture reflects traditional Hindu temple designs and architecture. 7. Every year during the full moon in the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May), a festival known as Padivaaravar Uthsavam is celebrated, which is attended by thousands of devotees from across Sri Lanka. 8. Other religious festivals and ceremonies, such as the Utsavam and religious rites and rituals, are also performed at the temple throughout the year. 9. The people of Poonakari and Gowtharimuani consider the Paddivairavar Temple their spiritual home and refer to it as "Moolanilayam", which translates to "abode of Lord Shiva". 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 Paddivairavar Temple, located in the Gowtharimuani village in Poonakari, Sri Lanka, follows the Shaiva-Agamic worship practice. It is a Panchayatan style temple that is known for its highly ornate and decorated outer walls, inner chambers, and sanctum. All Poojas (devotional services) are performed according to the Shaivagama Shastras and Agamas. The main deity of the temple is Paddivairavar (Shiva). Offering of the Lord are made in the form of Prasad (Fruits, Flowers, Grains, Curd). On special occasions, Thirumanjanam (ablution with water and perfumed oils) is performed to Lord Paddivairavar. Other deities such as Lord Nataraja (Lord Shiva in the tantric form), Lord Vinayagar (Ganesh), and Lord Murugan (Karthikeya) are also worshipped in the temple. On special festive occasions like Mahashivarathri, Thai Poosam and Vaikasi Visakam, a grand celebration is held in the temple. Various pujas (rituals) like Anna kuttalam (rice offerings), Yagasalai (fire worship) and Palliettal (offering of betel leaves, nuts and silver coins) are performed. Hundreds of devotees participate in the poojas and offerings are made to Lord Paddivairavar in the sanctum. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The temple is open from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

By Bus: The closest major cities are Jaffna (45 km away) and Colombo (281 km away). From Jaffna take a bus towards Poonakari and get off at the Gowtharimuani bus stand. The Paddivairavar Temple is only a few kilometers away from this bus stand. By Train: The temple is located near the Poonakari Railway Station. You can take a train to the Poonakari Railway station from Colombo (281 km away) or from Jaffna (45 km away). From the Poonakari railway station, take a bus or a taxi to the Gowtharimuani bus stand and then walk to the temple. famous temples in SriLanka