Mannar is the main town of MannarDisctrict, Northern Province, Sri Lanka. The Town is situated on an Island and it is where the historic Ketheeswaram Temple is located. The city is famous and popular among other cities as the center of pearl fishing.
There are a lot of significant places in Mannar such as Baobab Trees, Fort, religious places, ancient historical monuments and place. The modern city is dominated by catholic churches, hindu temples and mosques. The city was conquered and controlled by LTTE during the civil war and later in 2009 the city was captured by Sri Lankan Army.
Top 09 Sights in Mannar City
The Mannar city tour covers number of historical and cultural sites such as
- Mannar Fort which is located at the end of the causeway to the Mannar island was constructed by both the Portuguese in 1560 and Dutch in 1658. Though many parts of the city are destroyed and only the remnants of the Dutch bell tower can be explored. It is recommended to climb up the ramparts to have a nice view of the sea and the city.
- Our Lady of Lourdes Church is another important and ancient place that most people visit. The historical church was initially destroyed by the Dutch anti-Catholics and later due to the civil war that started in 1980s. The amazing wooden creations as well as unbelievable paintings very clearly depict the skills of our ancestors.
- The Doric House is famous throughout the history mainly because of its architectural design which is similar to the Ancient Greek Doric style. It was a two story building with red bricks which of its parts are destroyed and fallen down on the beach.
- Adams Bridge or ThalaiMannar bridge is famous throughout the city as it was a sand bridge that connected Thalaimannar and Rameswaram in India. The length of the bridge was 32 km and within one hour one could get there vice versa.
- The lighthouse is another significant results of skillful architecture. Though it is not taller than one in Galle Fort it has its own richness and beauty. It is situated in Thalaimannar in the nothren part of the island.
- Thirukethiwaram is considered to be the most famous and popular Hindu temple in Sri Lanka. This unique place attracts thousands of pilgrims in the festival seasons. The best and ideal time to witness the richness and beauty of the Tamil culture is the season of festivals. The architecture and sculptures are greatly admired and appreciated.
- Mannar Buddhist temple is located at a peaceful environment with full of trees and clear sand. The place is ideal for prayer and meditation as it is a very calm and quite place.
- Madu Church is one of the famous churches in Sri Lanka. thousands of Catholics gather together to celebrate the Feast of mother Mary in July and August. This place is considered to be a miraculous place. Thus, it is must to visit this place.
- Beachesare most significant places among all the other places. ThalaiMannar, Keeri, Pesalei, Arippu, South Bar are famous beaches in Mannar where you can swim, surf, snorkel, engage in beach activities and to spend your evening by watching sunset and relax.
The city is full of breathtaking sights and multiple tourists’ destinations which can be explored and enjoyed by tourists. The tasty of the street food is fantastic and if I try once you will be tempted to have it again and again. Local people are so friendly and ever-willing to help and assist you in whatever way possible. Do not forget to post for photos at important and historical places; take photographs of your epic journey.
NB: please bear in your mind that above all the historical and cultural places cannot be covered in a day tour. Thus, you have the opportunity to select 5-7 places according to your discretion and we promise to try our best in order to cater your choices. The locations and destinations can be changed basing on the transport mode that you choose to do the one-day tour. We provide both TukTuk and Taxis..
