Keerimalai Sacred Springs
Northern Province
About Keerimalai Sacred Springs
At Keerimalai, on the Jaffna peninsula's north coast, fresh mineral water wells up just metres from the salt sea - a hydrological curiosity wrapped in two millennia of sacred tradition. The spring-fed bathing tanks (one for men on the shore, a walled one for women) are believed to have healing powers, and legend tells of a sage with a mongoose-like face and a Chola princess with a horse's head, both cured by these waters - the princess in gratitude founding the nearby Naguleswaram temple, one of the island's five ancient abodes of Shiva. Pilgrims still bathe here before temple rituals, especially during the Aadi Amaavaasai festival when thousands honour their ancestors. Even for the unreligious, a dip in the cool spring water with the sea crashing beyond the wall is a memorable northern experience.
Top Activities
- ✓Bathing in the sacred spring tanks
- ✓Naguleswaram temple visit
- ✓Aadi Amaavaasai festival (July–August)
- ✓Coastal drives along the north shore
- ✓Combine with Casuarina Beach and Jaffna
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Bathing is segregated - men at the open seaside tank, women in the walled pond.
Bring a sarong or modest swimwear; this is a religious site.
Mornings are quiet; festival days are intense and fascinating.
Quick Info
Best Time
January to September
Weather
Hot and dry; the spring water stays refreshingly cool year-round.
Estimated Daily Budget
9.8120°N, 80.0090°E
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