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Kanniya Hot Springs - Trincomalee

Kanniya Hot Water wells has now become a popular attraction for those who visit Trincomalee now that the LTTE Terrorists which controlled this area has been completely wiped out. There are 7 hot springs now converted to bathing wells. The temperature of each is slightly different from each other. It is also believed the water from the wells have therapeutic healing powers and can cure many aliments.

According to the notice board put by the Pradeshiya Saba at the wells, this well goes back to the times of King Ravana who ruled the country over 5000 years ago. There are also archeological evidence that these wells have been part of a greater Buddhist monastic complex (see proof : Hot Water Wells in Kanniya used to be a complex of Buddhist monasteries! ) . But today these buddhist connections are suppressed it is managed by neighbouring Mari Amman Kovil, who holds the lease of the wells.

by Vishwajith Mapa published under CC licence

After the area was liberated by the Security forces these wells are packed with local pilgrims even on weekdays. It was reported in August 2010 that the usage of this well is so much that the wells which is full in the morning goes dry by afternoon.

Directions

Kanniya wells are located about 8 km from Trincomalee town on the Anuradhapura Road. The directions to the wells start from the town itself. The road is motorable up to the well. There is charge of Rs 10 per person to enter the premises.

If you are asking directions remember Kinniya and Kanniya are two different places around Trincomalee. You would find both these words used on the Web to describe the springs due to ignorance. If you want directions to hot springs don't ask for Kinniya.

Oh the same route you can visit the ancient Buddhist Monastery Vilgam Vehera few kilometres pass the hot springs.

Driving Directions to Kanniya Hot Springs

Map

Also See

• Hot Springs of Sri Lanka
• Vilgam Vehera
• Trincomalee

© Nishan Weerasooriya

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