Last year, I had a fantastic experience, and I’m excited to return this year! The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Temple Festival 2025 is just around the corner, from July 28, 2025, to August 24, 2025. This much-awaited spiritual celebration begins with the Vairavar Shanthi ceremony on the sixth day after Aadi Amavasi day. It’s a fantastic chance for devotees and visitors to immerse themselves in Jaffna’s rich culture and deep devotion. I can’t wait to be part of it again!
Nallur Festival 2025 Event Calendar
| Date | Day | Special Days | Time | Festival |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28.07.2025 | Monday | Vairavar Utsavam | 4:45 PM | 01st festival |
| 29.07.2025 | Tuesday | Flag raising | 10:00 AM | 01st festival |
| 07.08.2025 | Thursday | Couch | 4:45 PM | 10th festival |
| 15.08.2025 | Friday | Arunagirinath festival | 7:00 PM | 18th festival |
| 16.08.2025 | Saturday | Sun Festival | Morning 6:45 AM | 19th festival |
| 16.08.2025 | Saturday | Karthika festival | 4:45 PM | 19th festival |
| 17.08.2025 | Sunday | Santhanagopal festival | 6:45 AM | 20th festival |
| 18.08.2025 | Monday | Gajavalli Mahavalli festival | 6:45 AM | 21st festival |
| 22.08.2025 | Friday | Solution | 6:15 AM | 25th festival |
| 23.08.2025 | Saturday | Paddy millet maintenance | 10:00 AM | 26th festival |
| 24.08.2025 | Sunday | Vairavar Utsavam | 4:45 PM | 27th festival |
About the Nallur Festival
The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Annual Festival is a grand spiritual celebration that begins with the hoisting of the flag (Kodietram). The ceremonial flag cloth is sourced from the nearby Saddanathar Temple, once patronized by Ariyachakravarthi, a king of Jaffna. Spanning 25 days, the festival features a series of Yāgams, Abishekams, and special poojas, all conducted in the sacred Moolasthānam (sanctorum). This festival is a profound source of inspiration for Hindus and devotees worldwide.
During the festival, key events include Manjam, Thirukkarthikai, Kailasavahanam, Velvimanam, Thandayuthepani Festival, and Sapparam, with the Ther Thiruvila (Chariot Festival) standing out as the highlight. The Chariot Festival begins during the auspicious Brahma Muhurtham. Lord Muruga, adorned in regal attire, is seated on an exquisitely designed silver throne and paraded through the streets on a massive chariot. Thousands of devotees, rich and poor, young and old, join hands to pull the chariot, symbolizing equality and devotion. This act reflects the sincerity and purity of their faith.
The next day features the Theertham (water-cutting ceremony), followed by the Tiru Kalyanam, a symbolic wedding ceremony. The festival concludes with the lowering of the flag (Kodi irrakkam), symbolizing the five acts of God—creation, preservation, and destruction.
Throughout the festival, Lord Muruga, often accompanied by Valli and Theivayanai, is paraded on a variety of Bahamas (vehicles), such as the silver peacock, swan, cobra, and green peacock, to the chants of “Aro Hara, Aro Hara.” These chants, blending the names of Sivan (Hara) and Vishnu (Hari), embody the unity of devotion and a peak of emotional expression.
Devotees from all over Sri Lanka and abroad gather for this vibrant and unifying celebration, making it a must-experience event that transcends ethnicity, creed, and religion.
The History and Legacy of Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
The Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, a revered symbol of Hindu devotion, stands proudly in Nallur, just 1.5 km from Jaffna on the Point Pedro Road. Its origins trace back to the 15th century, when Sanpaha Perumal, the adopted son of King Bhuvanekabahu of Kotte, built it. After leading an expedition to the north, Sanpaha Perumal brought Jaffna under Kotte’s rule, established himself as its ruler, and constructed the temple and city of Nallur. Upon appointing Vijayabahu as ruler, he returned to Kotte.
Portuguese Invasion and Demolition
The original temple stood at Sankili Thoppu but was destroyed in 1621 by Portuguese General Philip de Oliveira following the defeat of King Sankili Kumara. The Portuguese erected a church on the same site, erasing the temple’s traces.
Revival During Dutch Rule
Under Dutch rule in 1658, there was greater religious tolerance. Don Juan Ragunatha Māpana Mudaliyar, a shroff at the Kachcheri, gained permission to rebuild the temple. The current structure was erected in 1749 AD, during the Dutch period, in its original location known as Kurukkal Valavu. Initially, it was a modest structure of bricks and stones with a cadjan roof, lacking today’s grandeur.
Evolution of the Temple
Over the years, successive renovations transformed the temple into a stunning masterpiece of Dravidian architecture:
- 1899: The first clock tower was built.
- 1902: The Vel Hall (housing the lance of the deity) was reconstructed using stone.
- 1909: The first enclosing wall was added.
- 1964: The grand hall, Vasantha Mandapam, was renovated, enhancing its beauty.
The temple features a majestic five-story gopuram at its east-facing entrance, six bell towers, and a smaller gopuram, making it an architectural marvel.
Preservation and Continuity
The Māpana Mudaliyar family, descendants of Don Juan Ragunatha Māpana Mudaliyar, continue to serve as trustees, ensuring the temple’s upkeep. Under Kumaradasa Māpana Mudaliyar, the temple has been expanded and modernized to accommodate the crowds during festivals.
A Symbol of Holiness and Peace
The Nallur Kandaswamy Temple is not just a place of worship but a beacon of cultural and spiritual heritage, drawing devotees and visitors from around the globe. Its atmosphere radiates holiness and tranquillity, making it a cherished Hindu site and a remarkable landmark of Jaffna.
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How to Reach Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
| City | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Route Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colombo | 400 km | 8 hours | |
| Kandy | 350 km | 7 hours | |
| Anuradhapura | 200 km | 4 hours | |
| Trincomalee | 170 km | 3 hours 45 mins | |
| Sigiriya | 260 km | 5 hours 30 mins | |
| Jaffna City | 3 km | 10 mins | |
| Point Pedro | 30 km | 45 mins | |
| Vavuniya | 140 km | 3 hours | |
| Manipay | 10 km | 20 mins | |
| Chavakachcheri | 15 km | 25 mins |