Healing power of Kanniya hot water spring
by HusnaInayathullah
The Kanniya hot water springs are a natural marvel that are
intertwined with myth and legend of Sri Lanka. Their presence in the
country's history dates back to the time of the Ramayana. There are
seven hot water wells with different temperatures and people believe the
water has some healing power for various illnesses.
 The Kanniya hot water wells are popular among those who visit
Trincomalee.It is situated about eight km from Trincomalee town on the
Anuradhapura-Trincomalee road. It is easy to find as there are sign
boards from the Trincomalee town. The area is highly populated as many
tourists visit the hot water springs. Parking facilities are available
and there is only a short distance to walk.
Stone wall
Each spring is enclosed by a stone wall to form seven individual
wells, which in turn are covered by a wall to provide privacy to those
who bathe. The size of each well varies. The bottom of the well is
formed of quartz, sand and gravel and thus the water is clear and not
muddy.
The temperature of each well varies and due to its mineral
composition the water is said to cure skin ailments and
arthritis.However, due to the spirituality of the surroundings, many
come hereto soothe their mind, body and soul. Further, to have bathed at
the hot water springs in Kanniya is significant as it is supposed to
have healing power.
The road leading to the Kanniya hot water springs is lined with shops
that sell local handicrafts and refreshments to those who travel in bus
loads to this historic site. The large arch at the entrance informs you
in all three languages that you have arrived at Kanniya. Those who
arrive cook meals and lodge in the facilities available at the premises.
Due to its popularity the springs are crowded during the day and it is
extremely difficult to enjoy the beauty and spirituality of the
surroundings and experience the soothing feel of the warm water.
Visit
The best time to visit is either early in the morning or late evening
when the sun goes down as it is quiet and sounds of the night give a
calming effect. It must be noted that the water should be used sparsely
so that the springs will flow for posterity. The use of soap should be
avoided in order to maintain the purity of the spring water.
It is still a mystery as to how the water of the springs are warm and
it is said that the temperature of the wells fluctuates.
At times a current of bubbles can be seen rising from the bottom,
giving youan impression of a pot of water being heated.Thermal springs
can be seen along the coastal belt from Hambantota to Trincomalee where
the Suriyawewa, Maha Oya and Kanniya hot watersprings occur within the
boundary of the Highland and Vijayan geological complexes.
Hidden energy
The hot water springs are said to be surface manifestations of
subsurface hidden energy sources, however their origins are yet a
mystery and is intricately linked with the history of this country.It is
evident from those who journey from far, braving the heat and rain that
the draw to Kanniya is intrinsic.
A visit to Trincomalee will not be complete without a sojourn to the
Kanniya hot water springs. |
