Nagadeepa

For both Hindus and Buddhists, the little island of Nagadeepa, off the coast of Jaffna has great religious and cultural significance. The name “Island of the Cobra” refers to the island’s connection to venerated serpents. It is the location of the 2,000-year-old Nagadeepa Purana Vihara temple complex, where it is said that Lord Shiva stopped by to mediate a disagreement between two Naga monarchs. Hindu deities and legendary animals are depicted in exquisite carvings and statues throughout the temple complex. Buddhists also find great significance in Nagadeepa, where pilgrims from all across Sri Lanka come.