Nagapooshani Amman Temple
Description
According to Energy Worship/Shaktism, there are 51 sacred memorials in the society according to Energy Worship / Shaktism, a Goddess centric education in Hinduism. Out of these 51 shrines, many are in India, with 7 in Bangladesh, 3 in Pakistan, 3 in Nepal, 1 in Tibet and 1 in Sri Lanka. Naagapooshani Amman temple is the single shrine in Sri Lanka announced in Shaktism. The Nagapooshani Amman temple was first written in Shakti Peetha Stotram in the 9th century by a Hindu philosopher. That is how far the temple’s antiquity and popularity travel back.
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Magnificent Architecture: Awe-inspiring Gopurams and Unique Statues
One of the most striking features of Nagapooshani Amman Temple is its splendid architecture. The temple boasts four glorious Gopurams, which are towering gateways adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The Raja raja Gopuram, the tallest among them, stands majestically at a height of 108 feet, captivating visitors with its grandeur. Additionally, the temple houses the unique statue of Goddess Nagapoosani, accompanied by a Lingam, symbolizing the cosmic union of the divine feminine and masculine energies. Another notable feature within the temple complex is the ten-headed statue of King Ravana, which holds immense significance in the temple's history and mythology.
The Historical Journey: Reconstruction and Cultural Importance
The present structure of Nagapooshani Amman Temple was built between 1720 and 1790, following the devastating destruction of the original temple by the Portuguese in the 17th century. The temple's history is intricately intertwined with the rich heritage of Nainativu Island. Throughout the medieval era, the island served as a vital hub for trade routes connecting South India and Sri Lanka, attracting numerous international traders. It held cultural significance for both the South Indian and Sri Lankan Tamil communities, as well as the Sinhalese community. Inscriptions dating back to the 12th century AD attest to the island's importance in foreign trade and its connection to Jaffna.
Legends and Mythology: The Mystique of Nagapooshani Amman Kovil
The legends associated with Nagapooshani Amman Kovil add to its mystique and allure. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati, known locally as Nagapushani, and her consort Shiva, referred to as Nayinar in Sri Lanka. According to the epic Ramayana, this historical place was identified as one of the 64 Shakti Pithas by the great 9th-century Vedanta philosopher, Adi Shankara. The fame of the temple can be attributed to Adi Shankaracharya's recognition of it as a prominent Shakthi Peetham in the Brahmandapurana. Nagapooshani Amman Temple is also considered one of the significant sites related to the Sri Lanka Ramayana Tour, attracting devotees and tourists interested in the epic saga.
Exploring the Temple
If you're planning to visit Nagapooshani Amman Temple, here are some important travel details and frequently asked questions:
Opening Hours
The temple is open daily from 6:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm. The timings for daily pooja rituals are at 7 am, noon, and 5 pm.
Entrance Fees
There are no entrance fees to visit Nagapooshani Amman Temple. Devotees and visitors can access the temple free of charge.
Dress Code
While visiting the temple, it is essential to ensure that knees and shoulders are covered as a mark of respect. Men are required to take off their shirts and under-shirts, and they should not wear anything from the waist upwards.
Location
Nagapooshani Amman Temple is situated on Nainativu Island, adjacent to Nagadeepa Buddhist Temple.
How to Get There
To reach Nagapooshani Amman Temple, visitors can take a boat service. It is necessary to reach Kurikadduwan jetty and board the ferry from there. The boat ride from Kurikadduwan to Nagadeepa pier takes approximately 15 minutes. From Nagadeepa pier, the boat proceeds to Nagapooshani pier, making a brief halt at the Nagadeepa pier. The boat charges for a one-way journey are 50 LKR.
FAQs
1. Is Nagapooshani Amman Temple one of the 64 Shakthi Peeths? Yes, Nagapooshani Amman Temple is considered one of the 64 Shakthi Peeths, which are sacred sites associated with the divine feminine power.
2. What are the opening hours of Nagapooshani Amman Temple? The temple is open daily from 6:30 am to 12:30 pm and from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm.
3. Is there an entrance fee to visit Nagapooshani Amman Temple? No, there are no entrance fees to visit Nagapooshani Amman Temple. It is open to devotees and visitors free of charge.
4. How can I reach Nagapooshani Amman Temple? To reach the temple, you need to take a boat service from Kurikadduwan jetty. The boat ride takes approximately 15 minutes and charges a nominal fee.
5. What is the significance of the Nagadeepa Buddhist Temple on Nainativu Island? Nagadeepa Buddhist Temple holds historical importance as the place where Lord Buddha pacified two Naga kings who were engaged in a battle over a gem-set throne.