Located in the Nainativu – one of the many islands that are part of Jaffna, the Nagadipa Purana vihara is one of the 16 holiest Buddhist shrines on the island. According to historic evidences, it is believed that Lord Buddha visited this site five years after he attained enlightenment. Upon arriving there he had settled the dispute of two rival kings of the Naga Tribe Chulodara and Mahodara.
Two of the ancient chronicles such as the Mahawansa and Manimekalai – a Tamil Buddhist epic further support this statement and there are also mentions of the existence of a throne which has been studded in gems with Lord Buddha’s footprint. The chronicles also state that it was once a popular pilgrimage site and was visited by devotees from India. Today, a shrine with a dagoba has been built at the site, and thousands of pilgrims around the country visit here for good luck and to obtain blessings from lord buddha.
Located at proximity to the breezy oceans amidst lush coconut palms, the temple boasts a tranquil ambience and it is an ideal place to meditate and relax your mind. Even if you are a person who does not seek spiritual wisdom, the temple offers a positive aura that you could absorb and instil a profound sense of calm in your minds.
