The Temples Of Fort Frederick.

The colonial forts of Sri Lanka are a highlight for many tourists. The charming city of Galle Fort has been wonderfully restored while Jaffna’s fort sits in ruin, allowing visitors to haphazardly climb over stones. Having visited most of the forts in the country, my favorite is Fort Frederick in Trincomalee.

The Portuguese built this military encampment in 1624, at its completion it was known as the Fort of Triquillimale. Prior to building the fort, the Koneswaram temple was destroyed during Tamil New Year. The Dutch captured the fort in 1639, and it was transferred to the British in 1795.

Today the fort serves as a detachment for the Gajaba Regiment of the Sri Lanka Army. Visitors are allowed to enter the fort and visit the Gokana Temple and the rebuilt Koneswaram temple. When approaching the fort you can often spot deer running around the perimeter of the military camp. The entrance to the fort is a massive gateway that is crowned with British insignias. Upon entering the fort you can walk along the main road. There are many soldiers about, so ask before taking photos (all of the solders I asked allowed me to take their photos). After walking about twenty yards you can turn off to the Gokana Temple.

The most impressive part of this Temple is wandering around at the top of the Fort’s walls. The empty chambers below underneath the temple are gratified, and traces of the shrines that these rooms used to hold remain painted on the walls.

When you leave the Gokana Temple to head to the Koneswaram temple, take note of the Wellesley Lodge. This building is named after Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, and now serves as the officer’s mess hall.

After a long walk up a steep hill, you will arrive at the Koneswaram temple. This beautiful Shiva temple was reopened to pilgrims during the British rule. In 1950 the original relic of the Temple was recovered while digging a well near the site. Arthur C. Clarke, the famous author, discovered more ruins from the original shrine while scuba diving around the fort. The lingam he retrieved now sits inside the temple complex, which was rebuilt in 1963.

Standing at Swami Rock and staring out at the sea is an incredibly tranquil experience. Plan on arriving at the Fort around 5pm, so you can watch the sun set from the temple complex. After the sun has set you can walk out of the fort in the dark. The experience of strolling through a military camp in the dark is eerie, but memorable.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp

Highlights.

Latest.

KAMU.

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo

Iftar delights at The Banyan, Heritance Negombo Written by Fathima Rukaiya, Mad Dogs Bodega, Banyan

Highlights Kamu

Budget-friendly Iftar spots 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya, In our previous article, we highlighted some exquisite and upscale Iftar

Highlights Kamu

Iftar Buffet Round Up 2024

Written by Fathima Rukaiya As Ramadan arrives, a warm feeling of reflection and community fills

Highlights Kamu

Discovering Pasta Paradise: The Pasta Factory, Galle Fort

In the historic Galle Fort, The Pasta Factory brings a taste of Italy to Sri

Highlights Kamu

A Home for Desi Dreams – Bombay Nights by Radisson Colombo

As we stepped into the ‘Dine’ in Radisson Colombo, our senses were immediately tantalized by

Highlights Kamu

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

Trending.

Experience the Elegance and Excitement of RTC Tourism Race Day in Nuwara Eliya

RTC Nuwara Eliya will hold its RTC Tourism Race Day on 30th March 2024 at

Trending

“85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim” by SLASU held at the Mount Lavinia Hotel Beach

The "85th Annual Mount Lavinia 2-Mile Sea Swim" organized by Sri Lanka Aquatic Sports Union

Trending

Sheraton Colombo Hotel celebrates International Women’s Day with empowering insights

Sheraton Colombo Hotel, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary brands, marked International

Trending

Anantara Kalutara Presents an Elevated Gastronomic Journey to Italy

Kalutara, Sri Lanka - March 14, 2024 - Anantara Kalutara Resort is delighted to announce

Trending

List of Party Venues 2024

By Fathima Rukaiya Finding the perfect place to host a party can be a hassle.

Highlights Trending

LCY Unveils Debut ‘LCY for Her’ Collection, Redefining Women’s Polo Wear with Strength, and Sophistication

Thursday, 14, March, 2024, Colombo: LCY, a brand synonymous with manufacturing high-quality men’s polos of

Trending

Yamu Guide.

Steak Bar: A Grand Sunday Brunch at Kingsbury, Colombo

Written by Shamrina C Welcome to the ultimate brunch experience! Nestled in the heart of

Highlights Kamu Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Him

By Fathima Rukaiya Are you trying to find the perfect way to show your special

Highlights Yamu Guide

9 Special Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for Her

Written by Fathima Rukaiya The season of love is upon us once more, and opinions

Highlights Yamu Guide

Romantic Dinner and High Tea date spots for Valentine’s Day  2024

Written by Shamrina C 1. Via Torino Indulge in a fine dining exclusive 3-Course meal

Highlights Yamu Guide

BYOB Bliss: 16 Places to you can Bring Your Own Bottle!

Written by Shamrina C 1. Giovannis Indulge in Italian flavors, grooving music, pet friendly, and

Highlights Yamu Guide

Unveiling Ramada’s Festive Christmas High Tea Extravaganza!

Written by Shamrina C Mark your calendars for the 22nd, 23rd, and 24th of December,

Highlights Yamu Guide