A short drive from Pasikuda, the Kokkadicholai Thanthondreeswarar Temple is Batticaloa’s most significant Shaivism Kovil. Among the region’s oldest shrines, this temple features a vibrant facade, pastel pillars, magnificent sculptures of Lord Shiva, and interesting trivia like a bull statue said to have chased away Portuguese soldiers in the past. Thousands of pilgrims attend the mid-August chariot festival and fortnight-long ceremonies here.