The Sitha Amman Kovil, located in the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya, is a revered Hindu temple associated with the epic Ramayana. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sita, the consort of Lord Rama, and holds great significance as it is believed to be the site where she was held captive by King Ravana. Visiting the Sitha Amman Kovil offers a spiritual retreat into Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious heritage.
A Brief History
According to the Ramayana, the Sitha Amman Kovil marks the location where Goddess Sita was imprisoned by Ravana, who abducted her to Sri Lanka. The temple stands beside a flowing stream, believed to be where Sita bathed during her captivity. The landscape is dotted with statues of Sita, Rama, Hanuman, and other deities, adding to the temple’s mythological importance.
Temple Architecture and Surroundings
The temple is a small but ornate structure, adorned with colorful Hindu carvings and sculptures depicting key scenes from the Ramayana. The beautiful, serene surroundings, with mountains, lush greenery, and flowing waters, enhance the spiritual experience. There’s a stone footprint near the stream, believed to belong to Lord Hanuman, the loyal devotee of Rama, further heightening the temple’s religious significance.
Travel Guidelines to Sitha Amman Kovil Nuwara Eliya
- Location: The temple is situated approximately 5 kilometers from the center of Nuwara Eliya, making it easily accessible by road.
- Best Time to Visit: The weather in Nuwara Eliya is cool throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is between March and May, when the surroundings are lush, and the weather is ideal for sightseeing.
- Dress Code: As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly. Both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. It’s also customary to remove shoes before entering the temple premises.
- Transportation: The temple is well-connected by local buses, taxis, and tuk-tuks from Nuwara Eliya town. If you prefer a private ride, you can hire a car or van from Colombo or Kandy.
Temple Worship and Visiting Hours
- Opening Hours: The Sitha Amman Kovil is open from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM daily.
- Worship Time: Poojas (prayer rituals) are held twice a day:
- Morning Pooja: 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM
- Evening Pooja: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Special Poojas: During Hindu festivals like Navaratri and Deepavali, special prayers and rituals are performed, drawing in large numbers of devotees.
Complete Travel Package to Sitha Amman Kovil Nuwara Eliya
Day 1:
- Arrival in Nuwara Eliya
Travel from Colombo or Kandy to Nuwara Eliya by car or train. Check into a hotel in the scenic hill station. - Evening Visit to Gregory Lake
Spend your evening relaxing by Gregory Lake, which is just a short drive from the city center, and enjoy a boat ride or walk around the lake.
Day 2:
- Morning Visit to Sitha Amman Kovil
After breakfast, visit the Sitha Amman Kovil to attend the morning pooja. Spend some time exploring the temple and its surroundings, learning about its Ramayana connection. - Visit Hakgala Botanical Garden
Just 1 km from the temple lies the Hakgala Botanical Garden, known for its stunning collection of flowers, ferns, and trees. Spend the afternoon exploring the lush gardens and enjoying the cool climate. - Evening Visit to Nuwara Eliya Town
After visiting the temple and gardens, spend your evening strolling around Nuwara Eliya town, exploring the colonial architecture and sipping tea at a local tea shop.
Day 3:
- Exploration of Tea Plantations
Head out early to visit Pedro Tea Estate and experience tea-making. Enjoy a cup of world-famous Ceylon tea while admiring the beautiful plantation views. - Departure
Begin your journey back to Colombo or Kandy, taking with you the peaceful and spiritual memories of your visit to Sitha Amman Kovil.