Keerimalai, Sri Lanka.

The sea-shore

The fresh-water bathing pool

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The temple being renovated

According to legend the mongoose shaped face of a Chola Princess was miraculously cured by bathing in this pool centuries ago. There is a temple dedicated to this site. Keeri in Tamil means mongoose and malai means hillock. An annual festival is held in this temple and draws a large crowd of pilgrims from ancient times. A new temple is being built close to the old site of the temple.

'Dambakola Patuna', Jaffna, Sri Lanka.

'Dambakola Patuna', Jaffna, Sri Lanka.

The sea route taken by the Ven.Theri Sangahamittha.

An artists depiction of the landing

A tent made by the Sri Lankan Navy in the premises using the different types of knots made in sailing practice.

The arrival of the Sacred Bo Sapling taken from the Sacred Bo tree at Buddha Gaya in present day Bihar in India was at a site named 'Dambakola Patuna' in Northern Sri Lanka, about three Kilometers from Keerimalai. The site of landing is commemorated by this site which has a Bo Tree, A Dagoba and Shrine rooms. There is no resident Monk and the site is maintained in excellent condition by the Sri Lankan Navy.

Video:-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nAwGb4HQ_KY&list=UU1dqepitfAJwrQWLD-gZ3NA&index=24

Kaithdy to Kopay, Sri Lanka.

The short-cut from Kaithdy Junction on the A9 Highway to Manipay takes this route by passing the Jaffna town. The road is arrow straight and is being upgraded.

Kaithady and the road to Kopay, Sri Lanka.

A9 Highway before Kaithady.

Kaithady

The road to Kopay from Kaithady

The A9 Highway reaches Kaithady junction after Chavakachchery. Continuing on the A9 Highway leads to Jaffna. The turnoff to Kopay, Maruthanaamadam and Manipay is the road I took.

Vicinity of Kodikaamam, A9 Highway, Sri Lanka.

Eluthumadduvaal to Kodikaamam, A9 Highway, Sri Lanka.