As you travel from Colombo to downsouth via the picturesque Galle Road, just before reaching Hikkaduwa you will come across a famous temple that locals highly revere. The Seenigama Temple or the Seenigama Devalaya is a remarkable place of worship that richly deserves a visit.
Many believe that this iconic temple is over 1000 years old. But no evidence has been found to prove this fact. It has however been proven that temple was built over 300 years ago.
How the Temple got its Name
There are several legends which give rise to various speculations about the way in which the name was given to the temple. Some say that the beach upon which the temple was located was enchantingly white and that Lord Devol had changed the sands to sugar. Thus the name ‘Seenigama’ (Sugar Village) has been given to the area. Others say that a number of Chinese traders visited the region so it was called ‘Cheenagama’ which was then changed to ‘Seenigama’.
Seenigama Temple is dedicated to the Devol deviyo, a Buddhist deity. Many come to this temple to ask for blessings from the god and even to ask for vengeance against oppressors. The temple is quite popular among the fishermen in the region too. Many people who pass the temple stop to offer coins as a tribute. It is the belief of the locals that this gesture of devotion will grant them a safe journey.
The main temple which is located on a small island has to be accessed by boat. Thus the journey to the temple itself is an incredible adventure! The colourful annual procession of the temple is remarkable event to behold for sure.
When you are travelling in the area with Green Holiday Centre, be sure to pay this temple a visit. You will be able to marvel at the rich splendour of this little island’s culture and heritage when you visit its iconic places of worship.
