History:

is located in a hamlet called Cheddypalayam in the Mannar District of Sri Lanka. It is one of the most famous and sacred temples in the region. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva ( one of the trinity of Hinduism ) and all the local Hindus visit the temple to worship the Lord. The temple is also renowned for its rich architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The main deity of the temple is a five-foot high murti ( iconic representation ) of Shiva and is believed to be more than 500 years old. There are other murtis inside the temple as well which include Mahavishnu, Devine Rajagopala with his consort Sri Rukmani and Lakshmi Narsimha. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Sivan temple in Cheddypalayam is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Sri Lanka. 2. Over 300 years old, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built by King Raja Raja Chola I. 3. One of the most stunning features of the temple is the large sixty-foot tower at its center that is glitteringly illuminated every night. 4. During the annual festival of Thiruvathirai, the temple hosts many devotees, who participate in religious processions and indulge in hymns and songs. 5. The temple also symbolizes and stands for peace and harmony between Hindus and Muslims in Sri Lanka, and has become a place of pilgrimage for many. 6. On an average day, visitors can witness a variety of ceremonies and rituals taking place, from music and dance performances to the offering of flowers and prayers to Lord Siva. 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 the Sivan Temple in Cheddypalayam, Sri Lanka has several traditional aspects which are followed regularly by devotees. Before the beginning of temple prayers, devotees circumambulate the temple three times in a clockwise direction and receive the prasadam (blessings) from the chief priest or chief pontiff. Before entering the temple, devotees offer flowers, camphor, and incense as a sign of respect. Devotees are expected to observe silence and refrain from talking inside the temple. Once inside the temple, devotees will begin their prayers and chant mantras or hymns praising Lord Siva. They typically then move on to offer flowers, prasadam, and other offerings from the deity as part of their puja (worship). The Abhisheka is a highlight of the temple ritual which involves pouring libations of milk, specialty oils, and herbs over the idol of Lord Siva. After this, devotees offer their bhog (ceremonial distribution of food items). Before closing the puja, devotees perform aarti (circling of the deity with incense, lamps and chanting of hymns). In addition to the core poojas, devotees can also partake in additional ritual activities such as homas (fire ceremonies), booking of kalasams (copper pot processions), Naga Dosha Nivarana Homam (ceremony for getting rid of snake boon), Atternam (blessings from the Navagrahas), etc. It is also customary for devotees to spend some time in the temple complex after the prayers to bask in the divine energy and reverence of the Lord. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The Sivan Temple in Cheddypalayam, Sri Lanka, is open daily from 6am to 7pm. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

The Sivan Temple is located at Cheddypalayam, Sri Lanka. The easiest way to reach the temple is by car. If you are travelling from Colombo, take the A4 highway heading East. As you pass through the towns of Ja-Ela, Negombo, Manampitiya, and Akurala, you will eventually reach the Cheddypalayam junction. Turn right and drive for around 5 km until you reach the temple. famous temples in SriLanka