The Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil in Jaffna is one of Sri Lanka’s most revered Hindu temples, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Its annual 25-day festival, held after Aadi Amavasai in August or September, honors Lord Murugan with sacred rituals and colorful processions. Statues of the deity are paraded on decorated vehicles shaped like peacocks, cobras, and swans, attracting thousands of devotees and showcasing the deep spiritual and cultural heritage of Northern Sri Lanka.

What is the Nallur Temple Annual Festival?

The Nallur Temple Annual Festival is a highly significant Hindu temple festival held annually
at the historic Nallur Kandaswamy Temple in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. It is renowned as one of the
longest and most important Hindu temple festivals in South Asia, drawing devotees from
across Sri Lanka and worldwide.

When does the Nallur Temple Annual Festival 2025 begin and end?

The Nallur Temple Annual Festival 2025 is scheduled to commence on
Tuesday, July 29, 2025, with the Kodiyetram (Holy Flag Festival), and will conclude on
Sunday, August 24, 2025. The festival spans a total of 25 days of spiritual celebrations.

What is the Kodiyetram ceremony?

The Kodiyetram, or Holy Flag Festival, marks the official beginning of the Nallur Temple Annual Festival. In 2025, it will take place on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM. This
ceremony involves the hoisting of the temple flag, signifying the start of the 25-day religious observances.

When is the Chariot Festival (Ther) held during Nallur?

The Chariot Festival, a highlight of the Nallur Temple Annual Festival, is scheduled for
Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 06:15 AM. During this event, the temple deities are paraded
through the streets in beautifully decorated chariots.

What is the Water Cutting Festival (Theertham)?

The Water Cutting Festival is a significant ritual performed towards the end of the Nallur
Temple Annual Festival. In 2025, it will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, at 06:15 AM. This
ceremony involves symbolic bathing and purification rites in sacred waters.

Are there any events prior to the main festival commencement?

Yes, the Vairavar Santhi ceremony serves as a prelude to the main festival. For 2025, the
Vairavar Santhi is scheduled for Monday, July 28, 2025.

A Festival of Faith and Tradition

The 2025 Nallur Festival is scheduled to take place from July 28 to August 24, 2025. It
begins with the sacred Vairavar Shanthi ceremony, performed on the sixth day after Aadi
Amavasi. This ancient ritual marks the beginning of nearly a month of ceremonies and
processions steeped in centuries-old tradition.

A Cultural and Spiritual Experience

The Nallur Festival is not just a religious event; it’s a vibrant cultural spectacle. Colorful
processions, traditional music, and elaborate rituals showcase the rich heritage of the Tamil
Hindu community. The most anticipated highlight is the Chariot (Ther) Festival, where the
temple’s sacred chariot carrying the deity is drawn through the streets by thousands of
devotees, symbolizing faith and unity.

Why Visit During the Nallur Festival?

● Experience one of South Asia’s longest and most significant Hindu temple festivals.
● Witness centuries-old traditions and rituals that have been preserved through
generations.
● Immerse yourself in the spiritual and cultural heart of Jaffna.

Plan Your Visit

With thousands of devotees attending, the atmosphere during the festival is both electric
and deeply spiritual. For travelers, it’s an opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s northern culture
at its most vibrant. Whether you’re seeking a cultural journey or a spiritual experience,
visiting Jaffna during the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil Festival offers an unforgettable glimpse
into the island’s heritage.

Key Guidelines and Arrangements:

1. Festival Timing and Preparations:The festival spans almost a month, and all preparations by the Nallur Temple Authorities
and Jaffna Municipal Council have been finalized to ensure smooth and safe celebrations.

2. Street Accessibility:
Streets surrounding the temple will remain closed from mid-2025 to mid-festival for the
unrestricted movement of devotees. Plan your travel routes accordingly.

3. Vehicle Routes for Kavadi:
Kavadi Vehicles must enter via the Point Pedro route and exit exclusively through Chetti
Street. Adherence to these routes is mandatory.

4. Drone Usage:
Drone cameras are strictly prohibited during the festival to respect the sanctity of the event
and maintain safety.

5. Temple Entry Policy:
Visitors are required to remove footwear before entering the temple premises as a mark of
respect and tradition.
This year’s festival promises to uphold the spiritual legacy of Nallur Kovil. Devotees are
encouraged to plan their trips early to enjoy a seamless and spiritually enriching experience.