Munneswaram Temple
Munneswaram, Chilaw, North Western Province, Sri Lanka
History & Historical Heritage
Munneswaram Temple is a major Hindu temple complex in Chilaw, North Western Province, Sri Lanka. The temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is celebrated as one of the ancient Pancha Ishwarams. It has existed since at least 1000 AD. The temple is historically unique because it houses shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Vadivambika, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Murugan. The temple holds deep cross-cultural significance, being revered by both Hindu Tamils and Sinhala Buddhists. The temple has been destroyed twice by Portuguese forces in the 16th and 17th centuries, and subsequently rebuilt by the kings of Kandy and local devotees.
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Sacred Legend (Sthala Puranam)
"According to Ramayana, Lord Rama worshipped here to rid himself of the Brahmahatya Dosha (sin of killing a Brahmin, Ravana). Rama felt a dark shadow following him after defeating Ravana. When he passed this spot, he felt the heavy burden lift. Lord Shiva appeared and instructed Rama to install four Shiva Lingas in Sri Lanka (including Munneswaram) to absolve his sins."
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Comprehensive Route Guide & Logistics
Nearest Airport
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) - 50 km or Ratmalana Airport (RML) - 95 km
Local Bus Routes
Available Bus Numbers: Frequent local buses and three-wheelers run from Chilaw town center directly to the temple gate
Railway Junctions & Connecting Trains
- Chilaw Railway Station - Located 3.5 km away. Frequent train services connect Chilaw to Colombo Fort.