Jaffna

Jaffna, located in northern Sri Lanka, is a city steeped in history and cultural significance. Known for its vibrant Tamil culture and heritage, Jaffna boasts architectural marvels like the Jaffna Fort, standing as a testament to its colonial past. The city's bustling markets, filled with aromatic spices and fresh produce, offer a glimpse into its vibrant local life. Jaffna's serene beaches and sacred sites, such as the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, attract visitors seeking both relaxation and spiritual fulfillment.

Isurumuniya Temple

Isurumuniya Temple,built by King Devanampiyatissa,is located close to the Royal Pleasure Gardens by the side of Tisaweva (Tissa rainwater reservoir).The Isurumuniya temple,built partly into a cave with a lovely pool in the front and with a boulder forming the rear wall,is a treasure-trove of exquisitely carved stone sculptures.The rock face bordering the rear of the pond is well adorned with a couple of exquisite rock carvings.One is of a herd of Elephants giving the impression of their playful antics in the pond.The sculpture has also captured the majesty of the leader elephant of the herd.The other one is of a noble horseman and his horse.Also at the temple is a celebrated sculpture on a slab of granite called ‘Isurumuniya lovers’.This has now been shifted to the Isurumuni Archaeological Museum.The lovers are identified as King Dutugamunu’s son Saliya and his non-royal consort Asokamala,the ultimate lissom women with matchless beauty.