Kanniya Hot Springs

Kanniya Hot Springs, Trincomalee Overview

The Kanniya Hot Springs is a series of seven square-shaped wells, each with a depth of about four feet. The water temperature varies between wells, but the average temperature is warm to hot. These hot springs are an example of nature in its purest form, and the water from the well is believed to have healing properties. The water in each of the wells is not very deep, and one can see the bottom of the well.

The legend of the Kanniya Hot Springs dates back more than 5000 years ago, when Ravana was the ruler of Sri Lanka. It is a belief that he raised his sword in anger in several parts of the Earth, which later emerged into the hot springs. The hot springs get the name ‘Kanniya’ after his mother. The wells were also considered as an ancient site used for cleaning and purification by the Buddhists. The Mari Amman Kovil now maintains the wells in collaboration with the authorities of the Sri Lankan military.

Tips while Visiting Kanniya Hot Springs

While visiting the hot springs, you should keep in mind to dress appropriately, any nudity or wearing swimsuits can pose to be an issue.
There are standard buckets available used for bathing at the site; however, since it is usually crowded, you may have to wait in line for your bucket. We recommend you to carry your buckets to avoid this hassle.

History and Mythology of the Kanniya Hot Springs

The legend of the Kanniya Hot Springs stems back to more than 5000 years ago when Ravana was the king of Sri Lanka. The local folklore of Sri Lanka takes it back to the ancient epic Ramayana. Ravana and his mother were big worshippers of Lord Shiva, and they prayed at the Konneswaram temple. However, when Ravana's mother was ailing from ill health, he wanted to remove the Koneswaram temple.

Later, when Ravana was about to heave the rock, Lord Shiva made him drop his sword. On hearing this news, Ravana’s mother was disheartened, which led to her demise. To perform the last rites of his mother, Ravana struck his sword multiple times on the ground from where several hot springs emerged.

However, another belief suggests that Buddhist monks used these hot springs as part of their monastery and rituals.

How To Reach Kanniya Hot Springs

The Kanniya Hot Springs is located at a distance of not more than 1km from Anuradhapura Road on the Trincomalee-Anuradhapura main road, while the distance to the hot spring is 10km north-west from the town of Trincomalee. One can cover the distance on foot or by tuk-tuk. You may also rent or hire a bike or a bicycle.

Trincomalee Travel Packages

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7 Days / 6 Nights

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