Jaffna is a district in Sri Lanka located in proximity to the sub-continent of India lying ten degrees in latitude to the north of the equator. Stretching between the coastal borders of Sri Lanka and the southern borders of India, is the Bay of Bengal and the Palk Strait and in these Indian Ocean waters lies the islet of Nagadeepa where the visitor will see the historic Nagadeepa Viharaya.
Alluring Buddhist, Hindu and international tourists throughout the entire year, Nagadeepa Viharaya is one of the most well-known religious and cultural sites in Sri Lanka. According to the thousands of years of recorded history that the island country boasts of, the sacred site is blessed to the Buddhists because of Lord Buddhas visit in the 5th year after His enlightenment. The visit was to resolve a dispute that was ongoing between two Naga kings, belonging to one of the sects who then inhabited the island, over a gem studded throne.
In accordance with the Buddhas teachings of the virtues of non-violence the two kings reconciled and offered the throne to the Buddha who returned it to the Naga Kings. The Nagadeepa Stupa was built with the throne enshrined and soon became a venerated site for Buddhists from all over the world.
The Nainativu Island is famous for being the landing spot for Indian merchants who purchase conch shells which are available in the surrounding islands; these are sold as they are used in certain Buddhist and Hindu rituals. The Buddhist chronicle, the Mahvamsa states that the island is one of the 16 most venerated sites in Sri Lanka. The Hindu Buddhist epic, the Manimekala speaks of the legend behind the gem studded throne and the visits of the pilgrims from India.
The Bak Full Moon Poya is dedicated to commemorating Buddhas visit to Nagadeepa. Although Ruhuna, the southern territory and Nagadeepa were once ruled by imperial families they were at times also administered by the courtiers of the kings. Around the Buddhist and Hindu sites large relics may be seen that prove to be remnants of the reign of the pre-Sinhalese kings.
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Sri Lanka hotels guide are made available to travellers who can select the most suitable solution for their stay in the island. TrulySriLanka is the ideal web portal for international travellers to familiarize themselves with the host of attractions and numerous activities that are available before they
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