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In the 8th century, the [[Maviddapuram Kandaswamy Temple]] underwent renovations led by the Chola-Pandyan princess Mathurapuraveeravalli. During this time, the statue of Kankesan (Murugan) was transported through the port of Gayathurai, which was subsequently renamed Kankesanthurai in his honour. In Tamil, the term ''thurai'' translates to '"port''.
In the 8th century, the [[Maviddapuram Kandaswamy Temple]] underwent renovations led by the Chola-Pandyan princess Mathurapuraveeravalli. During this time, the statue of Kankesan (Murugan) was transported through the port of Gayathurai, which was subsequently renamed Kankesanthurai in his honour. In Tamil, the term ''thurai'' translates to '"port''.
== Historical sites ==
The [[Naguleswaram Temple]] is a renowned Hindu shrine located in Kankesanthurai. As one of the oldest temples in the area, it stands as the northernmost of the Pancha Ishwarams dedicated to Lord Shiva, revered by Hindus globally since ancient times. The nearby Keerimalai Springs are believed to possess healing properties. To the south of the harbour lies the Maviddapuram Kandaswamy Temple.
The freshwater at Keerimalai Springs comes from underground sources. The festival days of "Maasi Magam" and “Aadi Amaavaasai,” the latter occurring during the Tamil month of “Aadi” (mid-July to mid-August), attract Hindu pilgrims to the town for ancestral rituals and a sacred dip in the springs. These ceremonies are predominantly performed by men, and Keerimalai is especially noted for this celebration.
[[Kankesanthurai Fort]] was a small structure erected by the Dutch in the area. However, it was destroyed at some point, leaving no visible remnants. Unlike other Dutch forts in Sri Lanka, there are scant maps and limited information available about this fort.
The [[Kankesanthurai Lighthouse]], constructed in 1893, stands at 22 meters (72 feet) tall with its octagonal masonry tower featuring a lantern and gallery. Situated within the Sri Lankan military's Valikamam North High Security Zone and adjacent to a naval base, the lighthouse suffered significant damage during the Sri Lankan Civil War and is currently inactive.
Kankesanthurai Beach is celebrated as one of the top two beaches in the Northern Province. This family-friendly sandy shore, adorned with palm trees and clear waters, remains uncrowded and natural, offering picturesque views of local fishing activities at the harbour, medieval architecture, and the lighthouse.


== References ==
== References ==
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