History:

is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the historical city of Tondamararu in Sri Lanka. The temple dates back to the 12th century and is situated on a granite rock bed. This temple is famous for the ancient Chola inscriptions on the walls. The inscriptions describe the rules, regulations, customs and offerings related to the temple. It is believed to have been built by the powerful Chola dynasty from the 11th century to the 13th century. The temple architecture consists of five huge interconnected Mandapams decorated with intricate wall paintings, sculptures and inscriptions. The presiding deity in this temple is Lord Shiva, whose form is believed to be Thondamararu, the Lord of Tondamararu. It is believed that Lord Shiva manifested Himself in the form of Thondamararu to fulfill the wishes of the people of the area. People from far and near come to this temple to seek the blessings of the almighty and offer their prayers. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Selva Sannithi Temple, Thondamararu is located in Mulaitheevu District in Sri Lanka. 2. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is said to be the largest temple of Lord Shiva in the country. 3. The temple is visited by devotees from all over the country, and during special occasions the temple is filled with thousands of devotees. 4. It is believed that Lord Shiva himself performed a task for a devotee at this temple. 5. The temple is renowned for its intricate architecture and sculptural beauty. 6. The temple also features a large pond adjacent to the main complex, which is used for performing rituals. 7. The main festival celebrated at the temple is Thirukkoottiyoor pongali, the festival of thanksgiving. 8. It is believed that those who perform the pongal rituals here are blessed with the fulfillment of all their wishes and desires. 9. The temple's special feature is the ‘Nandi mandapam’, which is a praying hall for Lord Nandi, the Bull. 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 traditional worship method practiced at the Selva Sannithi Temple in Thondamararu, Sri Lanka typically includes offering of flowers, fruits, traditional oil lamps, and incense as forms of reverence and respect. A priest attends to the shrine and chants mantras from the Vedas and Upanishads. Prayers are made to Lord Shiva and offerings are made to the ancient gods and goddesses to obtain their blessings and goodwill. The priests also perform special rituals to provide peace and tranquillity to the devotees. Offerings of food, clothes, and money are traditionally made to the deity as a form of gratitude and appreciation. Finally, the priest performs the Aarathi, a special lighting ceremony to signify the ending of the worship and to provide blessings to the devotees. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The Selva Sannithi Temple opens at 6:00 AM daily and closes at 8:00 PM. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

Selva Sannithi Temple is located in the Thondamararu village in the Trincomalee district of Sri Lanka. By Air : The nearest airport to the temple is the Colin Stewart International Airport, which is located about 144 KMs away from the temple. By Bus : The temple can be easily reached from Trincomalee town via bus or other public transport. Many bus services run from the city to Thondamararu for a nominal fee. By Train : The nearest railway station to the temple is the Trincomalee rail head which is located about 1 Km away from the temple. One can take a tuk-tuk or a bus from the station to reach the temple. famous temples in SriLanka