Sangali Kotai : Explore the Ruains of Jaffna Kingdom

 When we think of Jaffna, However, there are many well-known attractions in the area, such as  Nagadeepa Temple, the iconic Jaffna Fort and the beautiful Nallur Kandaswamy Temple often come to mind. But yet there are also hidden gems waiting to be discovered. 

One such hidden gem is Sangali Kotai,is not as popular as other attractions in the area, yet its making  a perfect spot for those seeking tranquility peaceful escape due to it has a beautiful kingdom with rich cultural history and with inscribable wood carvings that is tucked away in the rural outskirts of Jaffna.  

Apart from exploring the fort, visitors can also indulge in various activities in and around Sangili Kottai. The picturesque surroundings offer opportunities for eco-tourism, such as nature walks and bird watching. If your  a perosn who is much interetsed findings of anicent history this place is for you and the nearby Jaffna Lagoon is a great spot for boating and fishing.😉

  

Sangili Kottai,is  as a  small remote village with a kingdom which is located on the Jaffna-Point Pedro Road, close to  Nallur in Jaffna District. Sangili Thoppu Palace belonging to the village of Nallur in the Grama Niladhari Division of Sangiliyan Thoppu bearing No. J-109 in the Divisional Secretariat Division, Nallur is an archaeological protected monument, declared by a government Gazette notification published on 23 February 2007 and it was  formerly known as Singhanagar, it was the capital of the ancient Jaffna kingdom , which is  about 3.2Km from Jaffna bus stand and about 10 km east of Jaffna city. Traveling about 950m  on the Point Pedro road from the Nallur Kandasamy Temple.  in Jaffna you will come across a arch of a colonial building right next to the road with a canopy covering it from the elements of nature. 

 This house is in ruins an histrocal significant but until today it has been s a hidden gem due to it not as famous as some other tourist destinations in the country, but it is definitely worth a visit in Sri Lanka because this is ancient design  can certainly give an insight into the house construction techniques used during the reign of King Sangilian which is still seen in the Nallur area after sevral years of decay.

 However, architecture style is typical of Dutch style, and it could have been renovated by the Dutch. The general consensus is that this was the entrance to mansion of a wealthy tamil individual Poothathamby, a local administrator from the Dutch period. Thus this arch is known as Poothathamby Arch Irrespective of its origin, few hundred feet away from this structure you will come across foundation of a building which is generally thought as a part of the Sangili Toppu building complex. Next to this lies a large artificial pool now restored after the war. This foundation has been now designated as a protected archaeological monument.

History

The palace was the home to the Aryacakravarti dynasty which became a powerful force in the North and North-East of the islands prior to the conquest of the Portuguese into the island. According to Ibn Batuta, a renowned Moroccan historian, the kingdom had two capitals; Nallur was one and the other being Puttalam presently in the North Western Province.

During the existence of nallur rajadhani last king of the kingdom of the people in the northern part of the country was Sankiliyans. But with the arrival of Portuguese rule in Sri Lanka. The fall of the kingdom was inevitable. This arch is found in the land where the earlier Tamil king sangiliyans palace stood. Now there is an entrance arch. But this is said to be part of a later Dutch building. Mainly there are two opinions regarding the origin of this monument. As this monument is named after King Sangili/Sangilian (1619 A.D.), some believe that this arch could be a part of his palace (Dias et al., 2016) or King Sangili is considered the last king of the Jaffna Kingdom (Dias et al., 2016). However, according to some, Sangili refers to King Sangili Segarajasekaram (1519-1564 A.D.) who is known for ordering the massacre of Christian converts and priests (Haramoto et al., 2015). 

According to the other opinion suggested by some authors such as Dr Kunarasa, this arch was a part of the headquarter of Poothathamby Mudaliyar, a Tamil administrator who lived during the Dutch Period [(1658-1796 A.D.) Dias et al., 2016; Wijebandara, 2014].  Read More

Eco tourism and Sustainability

Sangeliyan Kotti in Jaffna is a historically significant and culturally rich location that has the potential to become a popular tourist destination. However, certain improvements and strategies need to be implemented in order to attract more visitors and make it a thriving eco-tourism spot. To begin with, the local government and relevant authorities need to invest in infrastructure development in and around Sangeliyan Kotti. This includes creating proper roads and pathways leading to the site, installing informative signage, and improving amenities such as public toilets and resting areas for visitors Additionally, efforts should be made to enhance the conservation and preservation of the environment surrounding Sangeliyan Kotti. This can be achieved through strict regulations and guidelines for tourists, providing education on the importance of protecting the ecosystem, and implementing sustainable waste management and recycling practices.

Furthermore, promoting the cultural and historical significance of Sangeliyan Kotti through marketing campaigns and educational programs can attract both local and international tourists who have an interest in heritage tourism. Collaborations with local universities, research institutes, and cultural organizations can help create awareness and develop engaging activities and exhibitions at the site.

Moreover, creating eco-friendly accommodation options and organizing nature-based activities such as guided tours, bird-watching, and hiking can further attract eco-tourists to Sangeliyan Kotti. This will not only provide visitors with unique experiences but also generate revenue and employment opportunities for the local community. Collaborative efforts between the tourism industry, local communities, and environmental organizations are crucial in promoting Sangeliyan Kotti as a popular destination for eco-tourism. These efforts can include public-private partnerships, community involvement in the planning and management of tourism activities, and initiatives to empower local communities through entrepreneurship and skill development.It is also important to conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of tourism activities in Sangeliyan Kotti to ensure that they are aligned with sustainable practices and do not negatively impact the local ecology and cultural heritage.

Map of the Sangiliyan Mansion

Traveling directions to Ruins of the Sangiliyan Mansion

To reach Jaffna there are 2 directions:

1. Over the Elephant Pass which is the normal route to Jaffna.

2.  From Pooneryn over the newly built Sangupiddi Bridge ,  this road connects to Mannar.

Route 01: From Colombo - Jaffna (Through Kurunegala)	Route 02 : From Colombo- Jaffna (Through Puttalam)
Through : Kurunegala – Dambulla – Anuradhapura – Vavuniya Distance : 400 km Travel Time : 7-8 hours Driving Directions : Prefer Google map	Through : Puttalam – Anuradhapura – Vavuniya Distance : 400 km Travel Time : 7-8 hours Driving Directions : Prefer Google map

 

Travel directions from Jaffna town to Ruins of the Sangiliyan Mansion

Distance: 5 km Travel time: 10 min Time to spend: 15-30 mins Driving directions: Prefer Google map

What makes Sangali Kotai special ?

Highlights|Sangali Kotai is also transcribed in various names such as Sangalee Kottai, Sangilian Thoppu, Sangiliyan Thoppu, Sangilian Facade, CankilianThoppu or Poothathamby Walaivu. It's the remarkable ancient bathing well, which gives the village its name. This well is believed to have been built during the reign of the Jaffna Kingdom in the 13th century and it’s unique architecture and historic significance made it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Today, it serves as a remarkable testament to the engineering marvels of the past.

Architecture | Ruins of the foundation of the Cankilian Thoppu, is abit away from the current Cankilian Thoppu, and considered as another facade of the palace. The construction of the Royal Palace has been ordered by Cinkai Ariyan Cekaracacekaran. But, another source says that the palace and a flower garden was built by a Tamil king named Koolanghai in 104 AD. There were two main roadways and four temples at the four gateways that have now been destroyed. The rebuilt temples that exist now do not match their original locations which instead are occupied by churches erected by the Portuguese. 

The center of the city was Muthirai Santhai (market place) and was surrounded by a square fortification around it. There were courtly buildings for the kings, Brahmin priests, soldiers and other service providers in the palace premises. The old Nallur Kandaswamy temple functioned as a defensive fort with high walls. In general, the palace and the city was laid out like the traditional temple towns in South India.

Destruction |The Jaffna Palace was significantly damaged during the Portuguese conquest of the Jaffna Kingdom. The fall of Cankili II, the last of the ruling dynasty at the hands of a 5,000 men-strong Portuguese invaders inevitably meant the fall of the Jaffna throne. During the 40Years of  Portuguese war ,the Portuguese destroyed Hindu temples in the region, the royal repository of all literary output of the kingdom. Yamuna Eri, Cankili Thoppu archway and at the  back of the building, there is an area that appears to be the foundation of the palace and a pond (Haramoto et al., 2015)

Ruins of the foundation of the Cankilian Thoppu and Mantri Manai are few of the only remaining parts of the palace apart from several small monuments that dot the compound.

Activities to do.

All of the below sights can be visited either on foot or by tuk tuk; we found Jaffna compact enough to walk, though we did cover a fair number of KM.

  Sangiliyan Statue

       The Sangiliyan equestrian statue , is erected in 1974 and  dedicated to the Jaffna Kingdom’s last                     monarch, Segarasasekaran VIII (1617–1619), who is known as Cankili II (Sangili II). 

Critics from one side say, the old statue was too heroic, critics from the other side think, Sangili II, a controversial figure in Sri Lanka, was an usurper who killed Tamil opponents and was defeated by the Portuguese because they didn’t accept his reign and deported to Goa (India) and executed, Although Sangali II was  Supported by Tamil troops from southern India he was executed in Goa and Kandyan King Senerat II to supported him due to  the foreign invaders from Portugal were the common enemy of both the Tamil and the Sinhalese principalities. However, Tamil freedom fighter Sangili II is not held in high esteem by Sinhalese nationalists. his is why the statue is a political issue. with critics arguing that the old statue was too heroic and the new statue is not heroic as Bertolt Brecht once stated: Unhappy that country that needs heroes. 

• Type : Equestrian statue
• Material : 1500 brigs and 10 packets of cement
• Completion date  : 1974 - rebuilt 2011
• Reign  : 1617–1619
• Predecessor : Ethirimana Cinkam (Parasasekaran VIII)
• Successor  : Portuguese conquest
• Died  : 1619

1.  Explore Sangili Thoppu Archaeological sites to learn about its historical significance.

Cankili Thoppu Archway 

                                              Cankili Thopu, facade entrance of the palace

You will be able to see a remaining  part of a building which has a semi-circular arch opening .It has been made of brick and plastered with lime mortar (Dias et al., 2016).  This lone old arch is know as the Sangili Toppu or  ( Locals call it as Poothathamby Vealaivu (arch) its one of the inscripted carvings   to King Sangili on1519. Some believe that it could be the original entrance to the place and now is the only surviving remnant of the residence of the former Jaffna Kings reigning from Nallur (ancient Cinkainakar). 

Presently, you will be able to see some portions are under construction plaster that had peeled off  and have been repaired with concrete and a simple shelter has been erected over the facade to prevent damage from rain. 

Wood carving at Mantri Manai-   Derelict historic palace 

                       

    Yamuna Eri – Ancient bathing pool -

It's an ancient man -made  pond which is  U-shaped used for women’s bathing pool of the royal family. Located near the Mantri Manai palace and the Cankilian Thoppu arch. According to the chronological historical book Yalpana Vaipava Malai, it was built during the reign of Jaffna Kingdom King Cinkai Ariyan Cekaracacekaran I. The text describes the King bringing sacred water from India's Yamuna River and mixing it with the water in the pond. In 1948, it was listed as one of the protected archaeological monuments in the Jaffna District by the Sri Lankan government. Yamuna Eri, also known as the Yamuna Tank. The tank covers an area of approximately 10 acres and is surrounded by lush greenery. Read More

Conclusion

Sangeliyan Kotti has the potential to become a thriving eco-tourism destination in Jaffna. By investing in infrastructure development, conservation efforts, cultural promotion, and eco-friendly tourism activities, Sangeliyan Kotti can attract visitors who are interested in experiencing the rich heritage and natural beauty of the region while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the site. With the right strategies and collaborations, Sangeliyan Kotti can become a model for eco-tourism in Sri Lanka.

References

Shantha, N., & Silva, E. (2017). Creating a Destination Image of Eco-Tourism: A Study on Sri Lanka. Journal of Management Research and Analysis, 4(1), 39-47.

Saravanan, P., & Kumar, S. (2019). Socioeconomic Impacts of Tourism in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Asian Social Science, 15(8), 69-81.

Thirunavukarasu, R., & Sivasubramaniam, C. (2012). Challenges faced by eco-tourism industry in Sri Lanka. Journal of International Business and Cultural Studies, 6, 1-11.

Jayasekara, C., & Boominathan, T. (2018). Developing Eco-Tourism in Sri Lanka: Issues and Challenges. 3rd International Conference on Management, Economics and Social Sciences, Proceedings, 268-276 Saravanan, P., & Kumar, S. (2019). Socioeconomic Impacts of Tourism in Jaffna, Sri Lanka. Asian Social Science, 15(8), 69-81.

Thirunavukarasu, R., & Sivasubramaniam, C. (2012). Challenges faced by eco-tourism industry in Sri Lanka. Journal of International Business and Cultural Studies, 6, 1-11.

Jayasekara, C., & Boominathan, T. (2018). Developing Eco-Tourism in Sri Lanka: Issues and Challenges. 3rd International Conference on Management, Economics and Social Sciences, Proceedings, 268-276

 Codrington, Humphry William (1926). "Chapter V: The Dambadeniya and Gampola kings, 1215–1411". A Short History of Lanka. London: Macmillan and Co., Limited. Retrieved 25 November 2007 – via Lakdiva.

 Giritharan, V. N. (1996). "Forward: Nallurt Rajadhani City Layout". Nallur Rajadhani: City Layout. Translated by Ramakrishnan, Latha. Madras: Sneha Pathippagam. Archived from the original on 25 December 2007. Retrieved 2 December 2007.