Thirukoneswaram Kovil
Thirukoneswaram Kovil
4.5
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- galadiel67Chiavari, Italy3,740 contributionsScenicIt is one of the most important Hindu temples, indeed sacred complexes, in Sri Lanka. It is located in a scenic position overlooking the sea and to get there you need to enter the area of the fort. At the entrance there are many small shops especially food and many people: pilgrims, school children. You must leave your shoes outside the complex and then, hopping in the patches of shadow, get to the temple "of a thousand columns". The temple itself is beautiful but what makes it very special is the location. You must be dressed comfortably (shoulders and legs covered). Admission is free.Visited August 2024Traveled with familyWritten August 6, 2024
- SGBPtiLuNantes, France1,712 contributionsBeautiful Induist temple on the cliffWe visited this temple a few days ago during our trip to Sri Lanka at the end of August. Very nice very colorful temple at the top of the cliff. Beautiful view of the ocean. There is a legend related to this temple. To access a small climb among the merchants of the temple. Going there during a ceremony makes the visit even more interesting 😃.Visited September 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 11, 2024
- don2jakoSri Lanka586 contributionsKoneswaram Temple of Trincomalee (Tamil: திருக் கோணேச்சரம் கோயில்) or Thirukonamalai Konesar TempleThe Temple of the Thousand Pillars and Dakshina-Then Kailasam (Southern / Ancient Kailash) is a classical-medieval Hindu temple complex in Trinco, a Hindu religious pilgrimage centre in Eastern Province, Sri Lanka. The most sacred of the Pancha Ishwarams of Sri Lanka, it was built significantly during the ancient period on top of Konesar Malai, a promontory overlooking Trincomalee District, Gokarna Bay and the Indian Ocean. The monument contains its main shrine to Shiva in the form Kona-Ishvara, shortened to Konesar. The complex was destroyed in colonial religious attacks between 1622 and 1624 and a fort was built at the site from its debris. A 1632-built temple located away from the city houses some of its original idols. Worldwide interest was renewed following the discovery of its underwater and land ruins, sculptures and Chola bronzes by archaeologists and Arthur C. Clarke. It has been preserved through restorations, most recently in the 1950s. Granted ownership of villages in its floruit to form the Trincomalee District, Trincomalee village is located on the cape isthmus within the compounds. Revenue from the temple provides services and food to residents. Koneswaram has many strong historical associations. The shrine is described in the Vayu Purana, the Konesar Kalvettu and Tevaram hymns by Sambandhar and Sundarar as a Paadal Petra Sthalam along with its west coast Ishwaram counterpart Ketheeswaram temple, Mannar, and was praised for its tradition by Arunagirinathar upon his visit. The Dakshina Kailasa Puranam and Manmiam works note it as Dakshina/Then Kailasam (Mount Kailash of the South) for its longitudinal position and pre-eminence, it lies directly east of Kudiramalai west coast Hindu port town, while it is the easternmost shrine of the five ancient Ishwarams of Shiva on the island. This religious temple is well-preserved for all devotees and we have a lot of respect and believe in Lord Shiva as Sri Lankans. As Sri Lankans, we pay to visit the said temple and pay our utmost humble respect and worship Lord Shiva whenever we visit Trico or pass by this lovely town at any given time. People from all over the world visit this temple. It was an amazing feeling to visit back the said temple grounds with my family during our visit to Trinco again. We will always retain the said temple since we are so blessed to have the said temple in such holly /religious grounds of Trinco the history left behind and around the old port of Trinco which is one of the most amazing natural harbours of the world the said temple is amazing to watch to any visitors around the world.Visited September 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 25, 2024
- AshenColombo, Sri Lanka3 contributionsAmazing viewPerched atop a hill and surrounded by the serene blue ocean, this beautiful and ancient Hindu temple is a true haven of tranquility. Nestled within the historic Fort Frederick, the temple offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a moment of calm. At the start of the road leading to the temple, there is a parking area available. Visitors can wear slippers up to the temple’s entrance, where a small facility is provided to safely store them for a modest fee while you explore the temple. As you make your way toward the temple, the path is lined with street vendors offering a variety of souvenirs, giving you the chance to take home a piece of the experienceVisited April 2024Traveled with friendsWritten October 16, 2024
- Titus DSri Lanka6,957 contributionsLocated on the cliff of the mountain in the Fort Fedrick, Massive Statue of Konesh daisy, Paranomic View over the SeaThis is a Historical attraction being located in the Fort Fedrick built by Pirtugese and built on the destroyed Gokanna Budhist Temple in 1620. It is devoted to daisy Koneshwaran. A huge statue of him is built outside the temple. The temple and the statue are colourful. In any faith, can visit inside but have to remove shoes and have to wear a modest dress covering the knees. Many devotees are seen worshiping and praying. This is famous for ladies to expect babies and they hang a small model of a cot for the purpose to get fulfilled. The view over sea is amazing. King Rawana' s cut from his sword which is also called as "Lover's Leap" is also nearby. During the day the sand is not and I recommend you to wear shocks. With socks you can enter the temple also. There are ladies found nearby that tell your future by seeing the hands.Visited November 2024Traveled with friendsWritten November 15, 2024
- Jalaja ManiBengaluru, India99 contributionsThirukonamalai Koneswara AlayamIt is a grand Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. There are other shrines housing Ganesha, Murugan, Bhadrakali, Parvathi etc. On the entrance side sits Lord Shiva in the form of a big golden coloured statue. The Temple itself is perched atop the Konesar malai a hillock. The Temple is well maintained with poojas and other rituals. It is also known as thousand pillared Temple.Visited November 2024Traveled with familyWritten November 27, 2024
- Prabhath MCork, Ireland112 contributionsHistorical place # trincomaleeIf you visit trincomalee srilanka, this is a place u must visit , Incredible Hindu temple with views over the ocean. Sunset is a beautiful time to visit. Please wear proper dress before u goin to the temple ( shorts not allowed)There is an area to safely store shoes at the front entrance. And there is no photography allowed inside the temple building. There are also stalls selling souvenirs, juices & snacks along the road towards the entrance.Visited January 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten January 13, 2025
- Justin MarleyCardiff, United Kingdom434 contributionsIdyllic Location.We visited this sacred temple mid week on a Wednesday morning. Its location is idyllic and the tuk tuk will ignore the no vehicle signs beyond this point and take you to where you need to hand in your sandals before entry. An array of stalls line both sides of the dirt road to the actual steps. As usual the stalls are all selling the same souvenirs and confectionery. Upon entering, you are overwhelmed with a huge statue of the Hindu Lord Shiva. This one is pink, it baffles me how many different interpretations there are of Shiva? Anyway to the left of him nestled beneath a tree are several deer. They graze on the grass and birds are also amongst them squawking happily. The usual traditional temple surroundings are here. After two weeks in Sri Lanka, it’s all too familiar and nothing more than decoration over slabs of concrete. Elaborate in parts whist needing some tlc in other parts. The incense burns, the chanting is soft and tourists are both fascinated and more than happy to emulate the rituals of locals. For me personally I was more impressed with its location. At the edge of a steep mountain rock offering panoramic views of a beach and the sea. You could hear waves gently crash and take in the fresh air. It’s a popular destination if you’re spiritual or take it with a pinch of salt. Either way, it’s well worth a visit for the scenery alone. It’s also free entry, which makes you wonder why in other temples they charge an extortionate rate entrance fees.Visited January 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten January 15, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
949 reviews
Excellent
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374
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Rambling R
Melbourne, Australia115 contributions
Dec 2019
There is something exhilarating about standing on the top of a rock and taking in a magnificent view. From this temple, which is as close to God as anyone can get here in Trincomalee, the views over the Indian Ocean are sublime. There are small shrines built into the cliff and it is lovely to stand with Hindu devotees as they perform their rituals. The temple, the people, and the wonderful view make this place a worthy place to visit. On our way down the hill, after collecting our shoes, we sat in a coconut cafe, high above the cliff, sipping coconut water whilst immersing ourselves with this unforgettable cultural experience.
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neluja K
Toronto, Canada14 contributions
Feb 2020 • Friends
A must see temple in Trincomalee with such a beautiful view. This temple holds a lot of history and is situated right by the water and looks out to the mountain. There are many street vendors and a cafe along the way if you want to grab a quick bite and buy souvenirs.
Written March 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Methsara Benaragama
Gampaha, Sri Lanka78 contributions
Jun 2022 • Solo
One of my favourite Hindu Kovils in Sri Lanka.
Way to Thirukonrshvaram through Fort itself is full of amazing sceneries including dears both sides of the road.
The small market just before the Kovil is also really colorful and last June I bought so many stuff from there.
With my mediocre Tamil Proficiency I managed to learn a lot about Tamil kings and the history behind this Kovil.
The view of the sea from the Kovil is simply magical.
Way to Thirukonrshvaram through Fort itself is full of amazing sceneries including dears both sides of the road.
The small market just before the Kovil is also really colorful and last June I bought so many stuff from there.
With my mediocre Tamil Proficiency I managed to learn a lot about Tamil kings and the history behind this Kovil.
The view of the sea from the Kovil is simply magical.
Written September 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Udangi
Napana Disaneggammedda, Sri Lanka67 contributions
Apr 2021
prays time 6 am 8 am 11 am 4 pm ,
we can participating 11 am prayer,
fruit baskets & coconuts can be purchased IN front of the temple,
after the prayers they offering green gram milk rice ( Pongal rice ) & fruit salad.
shorts are prohibited to enter the temple.
we have to wear long sarong , skirts or leggings or trousers,
children's can easily learn the history of the temple through the wall paintings & descriptions.
we can participating 11 am prayer,
fruit baskets & coconuts can be purchased IN front of the temple,
after the prayers they offering green gram milk rice ( Pongal rice ) & fruit salad.
shorts are prohibited to enter the temple.
we have to wear long sarong , skirts or leggings or trousers,
children's can easily learn the history of the temple through the wall paintings & descriptions.
Written April 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mala L
8 contributions
Apr 2023 • Family
Excellent beautiful place to visit. Its a place of worship for Hindus but people from all religions go there to get blessings. There's a belief that you will be blessed with child if you got blessings for this temple. Also you can get a beautiful view of Trincomalee sea from a very high level. You have huge rocks forming this location and one of the points is called loves leap. There's so many stories attached to this place I think you can google this stories. A must place to visit in Trincomalee.
Written May 15, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Morgan N
Zanzibar Island, Tanzania75 contributions
Jul 2020
Unfortunately, due to COVID, the Fort overall was very empty and most of the temple was closed to us.
Otherwise, this was a very lovely temple to visit. The statues were amazing to look at as well as the architecture of the temple itself.
Otherwise, this was a very lovely temple to visit. The statues were amazing to look at as well as the architecture of the temple itself.
Written July 30, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Samarakoon
Kandy, Sri Lanka4 contributions
Dec 2019
I have never seen a temple that is built on edge of a beach cliff. You can easily find deers and peacock casually moving along with the peoples. You can also find few shops on the way to temple. One of the famous places to visit in tricomalee. we went on December 10th early morning..it was so beautiful,
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ishan Tours and Holidays
Matale, Sri Lanka90 contributions
Jan 2021 • Friends
This a very important place in trincomalee.even in sri lanka.wonderful place snd its fantastic.you can view whale trincomalee city from this place
And this place has very powerful mythology.its a valuble ancient place in sri lanka
And this place has very powerful mythology.its a valuble ancient place in sri lanka
Written January 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Shifaam
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates450 contributions
Oct 2021 • Family
A must thing to in Trinco & amazing view always make me visit. The whole area surrounded by water & green, the temple history portrait nicely on the walls. Highly recommend for nature lover & first time visitors.
Written October 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dashers2014
Cambridge, UK647 contributions
Mar 2023 • Friends
Went as a group of friends. A long walk from where we got dropped off as our bus was too big. Uphill walk and some of us struggled a bit but we eventually reached the top. Amazing architectural structure: beautiful views from the top. The Raavanan Vettu was worth a look too. Enjoyed the visit very much - even those belonging to other faiths.
Written March 18, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi All. I am planning to visit Sri Lanka in this July (July last week) with my family. I have plans like below -
1. Airport to Kandy
2. Kandy stay for one day
3. Kandy to nuwara eliya by train ( 2 days stay)
4. nuwara eliya to Tincomallee by cab ( 2 days stay in Trincomallee)
5. Trincomallee to Colombo ( 1 day stay)
My questions are -
1. Above itinerary is good with the kids . i have 2 small kids . How will be weather that time?
2. how good is Local transport. How much cab will charge usually for all the travel? is it safe to have any cab or there is any tour operator who they provide the cab?
3. How much budget should i have for this travel specially for cab and food etc,(hotel & tickets excluded)
4. What is the Visa validity i.e. within how many days of issue of visa we must enter in Sri Lanka? For Indians what is Visa cost & process.
5. To do and not to do things.
Thanks,
Written April 19, 2019
Hi I cannot answer all of your questions but here goes.
We had a driver to look after us all the way through so we did not use local bus/ train transport. Although I can tell you that using trains needs to be many weeks in advance, all train lines are single track and they only run a few trains per day, with limited seats for tourists.
I would not recommend the train from Kandy to Newark Eliya, its a very very slow, cramped train that has little comfort, especially with young children.
You can buy a visa at the airport but I cannot remember how much we paid, we travel as Brits so not sure what it is for Indian citizens.
I would recommend a small boutique hotel in Triincomolee called Palmera Eco Resorts, actually up just north 2km in Nilavelli.
In Kandy we stayed at the Grand but as per my TripAdvisor comment its old and tired. Kandy is just a mega busy bustling noisy polluted city but worth a short 2 day visit.
Obviously even with the recent troubles its still worth going.
Good luck and enjoy.
Written May 5, 2019
which is the best resort near trincomallee/ ashok
Written September 15, 2018
It's depend on u r budget, much better to looking to trip advicer comments.
Written September 24, 2018
Can a disabled person have access to this temple? Can a tuk tuk drop a person very near the temple entrance and are there many steps to climb?
Written February 28, 2018
Yes it’s possible and people would love to help u.thank u!
Written August 14, 2018
how can I go from the main bus station on foot??
is it possible?
Written January 17, 2018
As this is located in Sri Lanka, you need a valid passport to enter into the country. Indians can obtain Visa on arrival. You have to travel to Trincomalee. You do not need to carry your passport for entering this place, but better to keep it with you for identification purposes.
Written January 2, 2018
do cars go up the hill or should we climb by foot only?
Written October 30, 2017
It's best to walk up to the temple on an early morning to experience the full beauty of the surrounding. The uphill part of the walk is short but a bit steep for especially an elderly person. Better to take a tuk tuk which shouldn't cost more than 100 rupees one way and there'll be no added issue of finding parking.
Written November 5, 2017
If you could let me know from where you are going to start the journey then I will be able to provide specific instructions on how to go there. But you will not get lost cause it is NOT in an isolated area. Its very famous so anybody will be able to show you or give you directions to go if you are in Trincomalee.
If you are going there from Colombo then there are easy and comfortable way to go like hiring a vehicle. if not go by train then go by bus or a taxi. in Sri Lanka there are plenty of Three wheels which they called Tuk Tuks so you can get down from the main bus station/train station and take a one to go to the temple.
Written June 29, 2017
Anyone know what's the opening hours of Koneswaram Temple ?
Thanks
Written September 7, 2015
Avoid visiting the temple after around 10.00 am until evening because the stretch you have to walk bare foot gets very hot.
Written October 30, 2017
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