The Shankari Mata Mandir, also known as the Shankari Devi Temple, is a significant spiritual site located in Trincomalee on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka. This temple, dedicated to Shankari Devi, is one of the 18 revered Shakti Peethas and holds immense historical and religious importance. Although the original structure was destroyed, the temple was rebuilt next to the Koneswaram Shiva Temple, continuing its legacy of devotion.
The Rich History of Shankari Mata Mandir
Shankari Mata Mandir stands on a hilltop, offering a stunning view of the Indian Ocean. The temple shares its location with the Trikoneshwar Temple, one of the four main Shiva temples in Sri Lanka. The deity has been worshipped here for over 2500 years, even before Prince Vijay landed in Sri Lanka in 300 BC. The temple was once a massive structure, adorned with around 1000 pillars and numerous small mandaps, making it one of the wealthiest temples in the South.
Destruction and Rebuilding of Shankari Devi Temple
The Portuguese invasion in the early 16th century led to the temple’s destruction. On April 14, 1624, Portuguese soldiers dressed as priests plundered the temple, using its materials to build Fort Frederick. The deities of Trikoneshwara and Shankari Devi were hidden in a well to protect them from the invaders. These deities were recovered after Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948.
In 1952, local Hindu Tamil people built a new Shankari Devi Temple next to the Trikoneshwar Temple, restoring the place of worship after a long gap of 450 years.
The Legends of Shankari Mata Mandir
The Desire of Parvati
According to legend, Parvati desired a beautiful palace to live in with Lord Shiva and their children. Shiva, who was a Yogi with no desire for luxury, eventually fulfilled Parvati’s wish by asking Vishwakarma to build a magnificent palace in Lanka. Ravana, impressed with the palace, performed the Grihapravesh ceremony and later asked for the palace as a boon, which Parvati granted. Ravana then built a grand temple for Shankari Devi.
The Tale of Adisesha
Adisesha, tasked with holding the Earth, got into a conflict with the wind god Vayu. During their battle, Vayu broke three peaks of Kailash, which were then placed in the South by Lord Shiva. One of these peaks became Thirukkonamalai, the location of Shankari Mata Mandir.
The Story of Kethu
Kethu, an Asura who swallowed the Divine Nectar and became immortal, worshipped Lord Shiva at Ketheeswaram near Shankari Mata Mandir to atone for his sins and obtained Moksha.
Sacred Spots Around Trincomalee
- Bilva Tree: This sacred tree offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and is said to be the meditation spot of Lord Rama.
- Kannia Hot Springs: Managed by the nearby Mari Amman Kovil, these springs are believed to bring good fortune and blessings to those who bathe in them.
- Mavaliganga Theertha: A well on the hill’s western side that empties into the Indian Ocean, believed to have originated from the locks of Shiva.
Shankari Devi Temple Timings
The Shankari Devi Temple opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 1:00 PM. It reopens in the evening at 4:00 PM and closes at 7:00 PM. These timings allow devotees to plan their visits and participate in the daily rituals.
How to Reach Shankari Mata Mandir
- By Air: Flights to Bandaranaike International Airport or Colombo Airport, followed by a 4-hour drive to Trincomalee.
- By Water: Travel by sea from Chennai or Rameswaram ports, followed by a drive to Trincomalee.
Shankari Mata Mandir in Trincomalee is not just a temple but a testament to enduring faith and resilience. Its rich history, intertwined with legends and cultural significance, makes it a spiritual haven for devotees. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler exploring ancient sites, Shankari Mata Mandir offers a profound experience that bridges the past and the present.
