History:

is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in the colonial-era city of Jaffna. It is popularly referred to as Sri Ampalavanar Kovil. The temple complex is situated in the heart of the city and was built in the 17th century. The temple features a gopuram, a hall of worship and various shrines honoring various forms of Lord Shiva. It has a rich cultural heritage and is significant in the history of Hinduism in Sri Lanka and Jaffna. Apart from its impressive architecture, Sri Ampalavanar Kovil is also known for its unique annual festival, Ammayam. Celebrations include special religious activities such as Pooja Pooja, lighting lamps, and offering flowers. Vendors sell traditional food, souvenirs, and religious artifacts. This temple attracts a large number of devotees every year from all over Sri Lanka and abroad. It is one of the best temple in SriLanka which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Sri Ampalavanr Temple is located in Nedunkulam, Jaffna, Sri Lanka. 2. It is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 12th century. 3. The temple is believed to have been founded by Nambikkai Vaduganar, an ancient Chola ruler. 4. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The main dias of this temple is used for the worship of Lord Shiva, while the other dias is used for the worship of other gods. 5. According to legend, this temple was visited by the great Hindu saint Thiruvalluvar who wrote the Tamil epic Thirukkural. 6. This temple has been declared a protected monument by the Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka. 7. The temple is known for its ancient sculptures and exquisite stone works. 8. This temple has been visited by devotees from all over the world, especially during the Maha Shivaratri festival. 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 Ampalavanr Temple is based on Vaishnavism and follows the traditional methods of Hinduism in Sri Lanka. The temple is centered around the worship of Lord Vishnu, and the main deity here is Ampalavanr. Worshipers offer prayers and offerings of flowers and fruits. It is customary to perform abhishekam (ritual pouring of sanctified water) on the deity, and some devotees even bring offerings to be offered to the deity. There are also special rituals performed for auspicious occasions such as the New Year, Pongal, and other festivals. Offerings such as cooked rice, poojas (offering oblations to the deity), lamps, and sweets are also presented to Lord Vishnu as part of the worship. During the festivals, the temple is filled with Vedic chants and mantras, and rituals such as homams (sacrifices) and yagnas (fire offerings) are performed. The temple is also known for its impressive architecture, with its unique sloping roof structures, and colors that grace its walls. This most visited temple in SriLanka

Opening Timing:

The Sri Ampalavanar Temple is open daily from 5.30am to 12noon and again from 4.30pm to 9pm. top temples in SriLanka

How to reach:

The most convenient way to reach the Sri Ampalavanr Temple in Nedunkulam is by car. The temple is located about 50km from the City of Jaffna and the journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. If you do not have access to a car, then the other alternative is to take a public bus from the City of Jaffna to Nedunkulam. The journey takes around 3 hours and the fare is quite economical. famous temples in SriLanka