temple · Jaffna · Free · 297km from Colombo

Small island off the Jaffna peninsula reached by boat from Kurikadduwan jetty on Punguduthivu. It has two major shrines a short walk apart: Nagapooshani Amman Temple, one of the 64 Shakti Peethas in Hindu tradition, and Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, one of the sixteen holiest Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka.

Best time to visit

Morning, on the early boats, before the heat and the crowds

Typical visit duration

Half a day including the drive and boat from Jaffna

Tips

Take the first boats of the day. Dress for both temples: shoulders and knees covered, shoes off, and men remove shirts at Nagapooshani Amman. Temples are free; donations welcome.