Historical background
The original temple is believed to have been founded in the 10th century by the Jaffna kingdom and was rebuilt in 1734 in its current Dravidian form after Portuguese destruction.
Religious significance
The most important Hindu temple in Sri Lanka, dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kandaswamy). The 25-day Nallur festival in July-August is among the most spectacular Hindu festivals in South Asia.
Visitor experience
Men remove shirts before entering the inner sanctum out of respect; the gold-leaf gopurams blaze under the Jaffna sun.
Things to do
- ✦Attend morning or evening puja
- ✦Visit during the Ther chariot festival
- ✦Walk the surrounding Nallur quarter
