Koneswaram Temple is a Hindu Kovil situated in Trincomalee, East Coast of Sri Lanka, surrounded by the sea mostly. It is perched atop Swami rock and you could see a mighty statue of Lord Shiva even from far. This temple is consistent with its own architecture and geographical beauty where one can see a deep blue sea along with jaw-dropping scenery on all sides. This wonderful temple bears a history of more than 300 years (But debates that origin is rooted to 400 BC and have found construction in the 5th century to 18th century) which is witnessed by its classical-medieval structure with stories lie behind them.

 

Photo Credit: Bhagya

 

From legend Ravana to the arrival of Prince Vijaya to the invasion of Portuguese and Dutch, the Koneswaram temple has a long history with many historic tales. The evidence lie within the temple, from Ravana’s cleft (one of Koneswaram Temple’s most iconic geographic features—a huge cleft along the cliff face of Swami rock) to Fort Frederick (Koneswaram Temple itself cannot be accessed without passing through the Dutch and Portuguese architecture of this fort), which adds historical value to this wonderful temple. Along the time Koneswaram temple has not only been a symbol of legend and history but a test of time by surviving and enduring all the destruction of the past.

 

Photo Credit: Janith Rodrigo

 

Today, Koneswaram temple is visited by people of many cultures and religions for its aesthetic, religious and historic value. The temple is on the northeastern coast, at the very end of Konesar Road. You could reach the temple bypassing Fort Frederick and following the path lined with shops. Eventually, you will reach the giant statue of Shiva at the promontory. Vehicles are allowed up until quite close to the summit of the promontory and no footwear is allowed from the point where the vehicles stop. Once you reach the temple there are many eye-catching sights from the temple entrance and courtyard to inside and outside of the temple. The temple itself is full of unique and outstanding features, therefore, it is a historical monument that has to be visited in person to understand the wonder of Koneswaram. It is standing wonderfully overlooking one of the world’s largest natural harbors continuing to become an awe-inspiring place to visit. 

 

Photo Credit: Kaushalaya Lindhapitiya

 

Photo Credit: Janith Rodrigo

 

Photo Credit: Janith Rodrigo

 

Photo Credit: Janith Rodrigo

 

Photo Credit: Janith Rodrigo

 

Photo Credit: Janith Rodrigo