10 Things to Do in Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (Nallur), Jaffna Sri Lanka
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (Nallur) is a Hindu temple located in the city of Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka. It is one of the most important and popular temples in the country, and is visited by thousands of devotees each year. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the god of war and victory. Here are 10 things to do in Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil that will make your visit even more memorable.
1. Attend the Annual Nallur Festival: The annual Nallur Festival is one of the most important Hindu festivals in Sri Lanka. It is held for ten days in the Tamil month of Aavani (August-September) and involves colorful processions, music, and dance performances. The grand finale of the festival is a spectacular chariot procession of Lord Murugan.
2. Explore the Temple Complex: Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is an impressive complex, with its towering gopuram (entrance tower), beautifully carved shrines, and colorful murals. Take time to explore the complex and admire the intricate carvings and sculptures.
3. Visit the Golden Chariot: The temple complex houses a magnificent golden chariot, which is used for the annual chariot procession during the Nallur Festival. The chariot is adorned with gold and precious stones and is a sight to behold.
4. Take a Blessing from the Priests: There are several priests at the temple who can give blessings to devotees. You can also seek their advice on any spiritual matters.
5. Participate in the Evening Rituals: Every evening, the temple priests perform a ritual called the Thirukkalyanam. During this ritual, Lord Murugan is adorned with flower garlands and other offerings. You can join in these rituals and get a chance to witness the grandeur of the temple.
6. Shop for Traditional Souvenirs: There are several shops around the temple complex where you can buy traditional souvenirs such as brass and silverware, traditional jewelry, and other items.
7. Enjoy a Traditional Meal: There are several restaurants near the temple that serve traditional Sri Lankan dishes. Try the local delicacies such as kothu roti (chopped roti with vegetables and spices), string hoppers (rice noodles), and fish curry.
8. Attend the Temple Processions: During festivals, the temple priests take out a procession of Lord Murugan around the temple complex. Participate in these processions and get a chance to witness the grandeur of the temple.
9. Visit the Other Temples: Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is just one of the many temples in Jaffna. Visit the other temples such as the Naga Vihara, the Jaffna Fort, and the Naguleswaram Temple to get a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of Jaffna.
10. Explore the Local Markets: Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is surrounded by several bustling markets, where you can find anything from traditional jewelry to fresh produce. Explore these markets and get a chance to interact with the locals.
Whether you are a devout Hindu or just a curious traveler, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is a must-visit destination in Jaffna. From participating in traditional rituals to exploring the bustling markets, this temple complex offers something for everyone. So make sure to add it to your Sri Lanka itinerary.