Kanniya Hot Springs, Sri Lanka

The Kanniya Hot Springs are a set of seven small square wells near Trincomalee, each filled with naturally warm water. They aren't pools for bathing. Instead, visitors draw water with a bucket and pour it over themselves, which is great fun, especially for children.

Tradition says Ravana made the wells by striking the ground with his sword, to carry out the last rites for his mother. Each well is said to have a slightly different temperature, and you can test that for yourself.

What to see

• The seven wells — tiled and fenced, with buckets to borrow or rent.
• Hindu shrines and ruins — a small shrine and old stonework are close by. The site has a long and contested history, shared by different communities, so please be respectful.

Visiting tips

• There's a small entrance fee, so bring cash.
• Allow 30 to 45 minutes.
• Bring a towel and wear swimwear under your clothes, or a sarong. Dress modestly, as it's a local family place.
• Go early in the day, before day-trippers arrive.
• The water is warm rather than hot.

When to visit

The springs are open all year, but May to September is the best season for the east coast. See our east coast itinerary.

Getting there

Kanniya is about 8 km from Trincomalee on the Anuradhapura road, or 15 to 20 minutes by tuk-tuk. Combine it with Koneswaram Temple, another site in the Ravana legend, for a half-day out. Nilaveli is about 30 minutes further on.