Koneswaram Temple
திருக்கோணேச்சரம்
An ancient Hindu Shiva temple built on the clifftop of Swami Rock. It overlooks the Indian Ocean, and dolphins can often be spotted.
Koneswaram is one of Sri Lanka's five great Shiva temples, with a history stretching back more than two thousand years. In 1624, the Portuguese destroyed it and used its stone to build a fort. The current structure was rebuilt in the 1950s. The temple stands on Swami Rock within Fort Frederick, with the deep blue sea below the cliff. Nearby are the legend of Lovers' Leap and a giant statue of Shiva. Entry is free. To enter the main sanctum, you must remove your shoes. Men should remove their shirts or dress decorously. The walk up passes through the fort's military compound.
Opening hours
Approx. 6:00 am–7:00 pm (puja times, check on site)
Nearby sights
- Fort Frederick
- Trincomalee Fish Market
- Pathirakali Amman Temple
- Uppuveli Beach
- Hood's Tower Museum
- Trincomalee War Cemetery
- Kanniya Hot Wells
- Marble Beach