The temple is well known as “Seetha Amman Temple” in Sri Lanka
Lord Ram and Sita Mata are integral part of every Indian Hindu household. Every individual has a dream to visit Sita Mata temple in Sri Lanka in their lifetime. Journalists from leading Indian media and influencers were invited by Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Board (SLTPB) to have first-hand glimpse of the holy place of Seetha Amman Temple. It was a mesmerising experience to visit such a significant place in our generation. In our mythological epic this place is called as Ashok Vatika. The temple in hilly terrain has umpteen Ashoka trees above the temple area spreading fresh breeze with a soothing sound.
So, one should visit Sita Mata Temple known as “Seetha Amman Temple” in Sri Lanka. It is located in the village of Seetha Eliya (also known as Sita Eliya), five kilometres from the prominent area, Nuwara Eliya. This place is believed to be the site where Sita Mata was held captive by Devil King Ravana. Here, Sita Mata prayed daily for Rama to come and rescue. It has a mention in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. On the rock face across the stream are circular depressions, it is said to be the footprints of Lord Hanuman. Here visitors can touch and feel in reality as if they are touching the feet of Hanuman in real life. The temple is preserved by dedicated Hindu families as it is believed to be one of its kinds.
Seetha Amman Temple attracts infinite tourists from India and across the globe. It is increasingly gaining importance and enthrals travellers with its majestic views and historical eminence. The footprints of Hanuman on a rock, as he rested at this place after the battle to rescue Sita from Ravana’s imprisonment. Devotees also believe that the temple premises carry a rock where Sita sat and meditated while waiting for Lord Ram, her husband to rescue her from captivity of Ravana.
There is a stream that runs from the hill and flows along this temple. It is believed that Sita used to bathe in this stream during her stay here. Nearly a century ago, images were discovered from this stream that carried three-idols, including that of Sita as well. Visitors believe that this episode of the Ramayana historically took place at this spot, which was known as Ashoka Vatika during Ravana’s reign.
Highlights of Seetha Amman Temple: It comprises two temples, one dedicated to goddess Sita and another one to Hanuman. Sita temple has a multi-coloured dome covered with mythological characters. Statues of Ram, Lakshmana and Sita were added in the later years. The side closer to the river stream has a shrine with three-darkened idols that were spotted here nearly a century ago. The top of the roof exhibits numerous groupings of Vishnu namely Krishna, Kalki, Vamana and Parshurama. Surprisingly, the water of the river which flows along the temple has no taste. The locals believe that its due to the curse of Sita.
Giant foot prints of Lord Hanuman at Seetha Amman Temple
Is it advisable to visit Sri Lanka at this time? Yes, it’s the right time to visit Sri Lanka to have beautiful glimpses of tourist destinations at affordable prices. We have visited Sri Lanka recently during the peak of agitation. We could see that locals were more welcoming towards tourists as they generate direct revenue. This is the right time as hotels are offering rooms at unbelievable prices. Sri Lankans are happier to welcome tourists. Beside hotels, other ancillary business-like transports, local eateries, water sports activities and local shopping are also generated revenues.
I was deeply spellbound during my visit to the holy place Seetha Amman Temple in Sri Lanka. I am sure it will astonish you as it exhibits the existence of a story that occurred in the 13th and early 14th century. I would highly recommend to Indian tourists to visit this stunning ancient temple located amidst the natural sanctuary of beautiful Sri Lanka.
HIGHLIGHTS
How to reach Sri Lanka: There are numerous flights connecting India to Colombo from Mumbai, Delhi, Trivandrum, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and Coimbatore.
Hotels: Plentiful Global Luxury hotels brands, local brands and budget hotels are available to cater to all types of visitors.
Visa: Visa is available on arrival to Indian tourists.
Transportation: Local and tourist taxis are available at affordable prices. For budget tourists, state run buses and trains are also available.
Cuisines: Local to Global delicacies are available at luxury hotels and local eateries.
Contact: Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Board
DIAL: 1912 from any phone within Sri Lanka to access tourism Information.
Sri Lanka Tourism Head Office l +94 112426900 l +94 112 440001 / 2426984
No. 80, Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka.
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
