India is a land of rich culture, traditions, and religions. With a diverse range of pilgrimage destinations, India is considered a sacred land that attracts millions of visitors every year. One of these significant spiritual destinations is the Shankari Devi Temple in Trincomalee. This temple is a symbol of cultural and religious harmony and has a fascinating history that attracts devotees from all over the world. Let's explore this beautiful temple and the stories that surround it.  

Introduction:  

Located in the east coast of Sri Lanka, Trincomalee is a beautiful port city with a rich history. It is home to the Shankari Devi Temple, which is believed to be one of the 18 Shakti Peethas in India. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and is considered a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and breathtaking views of the ocean, making it a serene and peaceful place to visit.  

History and Legends:  

The Shankari Devi Temple has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. According to legends, the temple was built by King Ravana, who was a devotee of Goddess Parvati. It is believed that the king brought a statue of the goddess from India and built the temple in Trincomalee. The temple is also associated with the story of Goddess Sati, who sacrificed herself in the fire to protest her father's insult to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva carried her body on his shoulder, and parts of her body fell at different places, which later became known as Shakti Peethas. It is believed that the Shankari Devi Temple is the site where the right ankle of Goddess Sati fell.  

Architecture and Design:  

The temple's architecture and design reflect the rich heritage and cultural significance of the site. The temple is built in a traditional South Indian style with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main deity of the temple, Goddess Shankari Devi, is depicted in a standing posture with four hands. The temple's sanctum sanctorum is adorned with beautiful paintings and carvings that depict various stories and legends from Hindu mythology.  

Festivals and Celebrations:  

The Shankari Devi Temple is a place of celebration and festivities. The temple hosts several festivals and celebrations throughout the year, which attract devotees from all over the world. Some of the most significant festivals celebrated in the temple are Navratri, Pongal, and Diwali. During these festivals, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and the devotees offer special prayers and offerings to the goddess.  

Significance and Importance:  

The Shankari Devi Temple holds immense significance and importance in the Hindu and Buddhist communities. The temple is considered a sacred site, and the devotees believe that visiting the temple and offering prayers to the goddess can bring them good luck and prosperity. The temple is also associated with the concept of Shakti, which is believed to be the feminine energy that powers the universe.  

How to Reach Shankari Devi Temple:  

The Shankari Devi Temple is located in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. The temple is well-connected by road and can be easily reached by public or private transport. The nearest airport is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, which is about 260 km away from Trincomalee.  

Tips for Visitors:  

If you are planning to visit the Shankari Devi Temple, here are some tips that might come in handy:  

Dress modestly and respect the temple's rules and regulations.  

Remove your shoes before entering the temple premises.  

Photography is not allowed inside the temple.  

Carry a water bottle and wear comfortable shoes as the temple involves climbing stairs.  

Visit the temple during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowd and heat.  

Hidden facts about Shankari Devi Temple, Trincomalee:-

Shankari Devi Temple is a Hindu temple located in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka. It is considered to be one of the 18 ancient shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built in the 6th century BCE.

Here are some hidden facts about Shankari Devi Temple:

Legend has it that the temple was originally located in what is now Pakistan and was relocated to its current location in Trincomalee by King Ravana of Sri Lanka.

The temple is also associated with the legend of the marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is believed that Goddess Parvati took the form of a fisherman's daughter and meditated at this site to win Lord Shiva's heart.

The temple has undergone many renovations and restorations over the years, with the most recent renovation taking place in 2012.

The temple has a sacred pond known as Shankari Tank, which is believed to have healing properties. Devotees often take a dip in the tank to cleanse themselves of their sins.

The temple is also known for its annual festival, which takes place in July or August and lasts for 10 days. During the festival, the temple is decorated with lights and flowers, and devotees gather to offer prayers and participate in various rituals and ceremonies.

The temple is located on top of a hill and offers panoramic views of the Trincomalee harbor and the surrounding area.

The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus from Sri Lanka and other parts of the world. It is also a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who are interested in its history, architecture, and religious significance.

The nearest airport to Shankari Devi Temple in Trincomalee is the Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is approximately 265 kilometers away from the temple and takes around 6 hours to reach by road.  

From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Trincomalee. There are regular bus services from Colombo to Trincomalee, and the journey takes around 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can also hire a private taxi or car for a more comfortable and convenient journey.  

Once you reach Trincomalee, you can easily reach the Shankari Devi Temple by taking a taxi or tuk-tuk from the city center. The temple is located on a hill and involves climbing a flight of stairs, so it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle with you.  

Trincomalee is well-connected to the rest of Sri Lanka by road, and there are several bus services available from major cities and towns. The nearest bus stand to Shankari Devi Temple is the Trincomalee Central Bus Stand, which is located in the city center.  

From the bus stand, you can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the temple. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the traffic. Alternatively, you can also take a local bus to reach the temple, but it may not be very comfortable and convenient.  

If you are driving to Shankari Devi Temple, you can follow the A6 highway from Colombo and then take the Trincomalee-Horowupotana road to reach the temple. The temple is located on a hill, and there is a dedicated parking area available for visitors. However, it's important to note that the road leading to the temple is quite steep and may not be suitable for inexperienced drivers.  

Trincomalee has a railway station that connects it to other major cities and towns in Sri Lanka. The nearest railway station to Shankari Devi Temple is the Trincomalee Railway Station, which is located in the city center.  

From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or tuk-tuk to reach the temple. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on the traffic. Alternatively, you can also take a local bus to reach the temple, but it may not be very comfortable and convenient.  

FAQs:  

Is the Shankari Devi Temple only for Hindus?   

No, the temple is open to people of all faiths and beliefs.  

Can we take pictures inside the temple?   

No, photography is not allowed inside the temple premises.  

What is the best time to visit the temple?   

The best time to visit the temple is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowd and heat.  

Is there any dress code to follow while visiting the temple?   

Yes, visitors are expected to dress modestly and follow the temple's rules and regulations.  

How do we reach the Shankari Devi Temple?   

The temple is located in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, and can be easily reached by road from the nearest airport in Colombo.