Welcome to Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, Jaffna, Sri Lanka

Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, located on the island of Nainativu, is one of the sixteen holiest Buddhist shrines (Solosmasthana) in Sri Lanka. It is a place steeped in legend and history, frequented by pilgrims and tourists alike. If you are looking to visit this serene and sacred place, here's how you can reach it:

Traveling to Jaffna

Your journey to Nagadeepa Purana Vihara begins with reaching the city of Jaffna. Jaffna can be accessed via:

• Road transport: There are regular bus services from Colombo to Jaffna. Air-conditioned buses offer more comfort for the long journey. Private vehicle hire is also an option for a more personalized journey.
• Train: The train journey from Colombo to Jaffna can be quite scenic and comfortable. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially if you prefer to travel in the first or second class.
• Air: For a quicker option, there are domestic flights available to Jaffna airport from the main Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo.

From Jaffna to Nagadeepa Purana Vihara

Once you arrive in Jaffna, Nagadeepa Vihara is just a short trip away. However, since it is located on an island, you will need to arrange boat transport.

Step-by-Step Guide to Reach Nagadeepa Purana Vihara

1. Travel to the Kurikadduwan (KKD) Jetty: From Jaffna, take a local bus, taxi, or tuk-tuk to reach the KKD Jetty. The distance is approximately 30 kilometers.
2. Take a Boat from KKD Jetty to Nainativu Island: There are regular ferry services that run to and from Nainativu Island. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes. Be mindful of the local schedules and give yourself plenty of time.
3. Once on Nainativu Island: Nagadeepa Purana Vihara is located a short distance from the ferry pier. You can either walk to the temple or hire a local tuk-tuk for a quick ride.

Tips for Visitors

• It is recommended to plan your visit to Nagadeepa Vihara earlier in the day to avoid the heat and to ensure you have enough time to return to the mainland before the last ferry.
• Remember to dress modest A respectful attire that covers your shoulders and legs is expected when visiting religious sites.
• Check the local ferry schedule ahead of your visit as the times can vary, and services are less frequent on Poya days (full moon days) and public holidays.
• While there is no entry fee for the temple, there are charges for the ferry service and donations are welcome at the Vihara.

We wish you a wonderful and enriching experience at Nagadeepa Purana Vihara!