Question 1

Where is Manniththalai Sivan Kovil located?

Accepted Answer

Manniththalai Sivan Kovil is located in Manniththalai village, Pooneryn (Poonakary), Kilinochchi District, Northern Province, Sri Lanka. It is situated 12 km along the Jaffna sand bar road from the Jaffna peninsula.

Question 2

What is the significance of Manniththalai Sivan Kovil?

Accepted Answer

Manniththalai Sivan Kovil is an ancient coral-stone Shaiva temple believed to be built around 300 years ago. It was declared a protected archaeological monument by the Government of Sri Lanka on 12 June 2015 (Gazette No. 1957/18). The temple was first identified by Professor Pushparatnam of the University of Jaffna in 1993 and features Chola-era architecture.

Question 3

What are the pooja timings at Manniththalai Sivan Kovil?

Accepted Answer

Manniththalai Sivan Kovil conducts daily poojas including Suprabhatham (morning), Kalasanthi, Uchikalam (noon), Sayaratchai (evening) and Ardhajama Pooja (night). The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily.

Question 4

How do I get to Manniththalai Sivan Kovil?

Accepted Answer

From Jaffna, travel south via Pooneryn (Poonakary). Take the 22 km sand bar road and the temple is located 12 km along this coastal route. From Kilinochchi, drive north through the Pooneryn area. GPS coordinates: 9.6789, 80.2435.

Question 5

What festivals are celebrated at Manniththalai Sivan Kovil?

Accepted Answer

Manniththalai Sivan Kovil celebrates Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham, Annual Chariot Festival (Thaer Thiruvizha), Thai Poosam, and the Kumbabishekam. The historic Kumbabishekam was held on 5 July 2026 after the restoration of the ancient temple.