Keerimalai Hot Springs In Sri Lanka

Introducing

Keerimalai Hot Spring is a natural freshwater spring on the northern coast of Jaffna, close to the West Sea of Palaly. It has significant spiritual and historical meanings. Although it is close to the ocean, the spring stays cool and clear because it gets its water from deep.

Even though Keerimalai isn’t a hot spring, it’s known for having healing powers, which makes it a popular place for travellers and locals to take a swim. These peaceful surroundings, historical stories, and religious significance make this a must-see spot in Jaffna.

Why Keerimalai Hot Spring Is Famous

In Tamil, the name “Keerimalai” means “Mongoose Hill.” Local folklore says that a wise man named Nagula Swami was cursed to have a mongoose face. His human face came back after he bathed in the holy waters of Keerimalai, according to legend.

According to legend, the sage built the nearby Naguleswaram Kovil as a way of showing his appreciation. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of Sri Lanka’s five Pancha Ishwarams, or sacred Shiva places. Today, tens of thousands of people come to the temple and the holy spring to bathe and seek healing from the water.

Doings at Keerimalai Hot Spring

  • A swimming pool-style design with stone steps going into the water makes up the bathing tank. The main pond is where the men bathe, and the women’s sections are separate and behind the main building.
  • Adjacent to the hot spring is the Naguleswaram Kovil, an old Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is thought that the temple is more than 2,000 years old and has a profound sacred meaning. The temple is visited by many Hindu visitors who do rituals and prayers before or after taking a bath in the spring.
  • While you’re relaxing or taking pictures, the stunning view of the ocean from Keerimalai Hot Spring is great. Visitors can stroll along the beach, take in the fresh air, and watch fishing boats off in the distance.
  • Thirty minutes from Keerimalai is Dambakola Patuna, an old harbour where Buddhism first came to Sri Lanka. An important Buddhist pilgrimage site, this ancient site has a white stupa surrounded by palm trees.
  • Keerimalai is 40 minutes away by car from Kadurugoda Temple, an old Buddhist temple with small stupas made of limestone. Visitors can get a sense of Jaffna’s lost Buddhist history at this spot.

What places are nearby Keerimalai Hot Spring?

  • Luxury Hotels Jetwing Jaffna(Upscale hotel with modern rooms and a restaurant on the roof. Provides stunning views of the city and simple entry to Jaffna’s most popular sights.)
  • An intimate hotel set in a tropical yard.(Perfect for travellers who want to relax in peace.)

Seasons that are best are December through April (dry season).

  • Feels warm and sunny, and the sky is clear.
    Monsoon Season: October through November
  • Rainfall is occurring on occasion, but the temperature is cool.
  • Temple celebrations:

In February or March, Naguleswaram Kovil has Maha Shivaratri, which is a popular holiday.
Jaffna celebrates the Tamil harvest holiday Thai Pongal in January.
Advice on how to get to Keerimalai Hot Spring.

Lastly,

Beyond being a natural spring, Keerimalai Hot Spring is a place of stories, faith, and healing. This place offers an unforgettable experience whether you’re there for a relaxing bath, a trip through history, or a beautiful coastal getaway.