Jaffna & the North - Sri Lanka - page 598

point in the journey of the sacred Buddha tooth relic from Mullaittivu to Anuradhapura
during the 4th-century reign of King Mahsen.
Kandasamy Kovil HINDU
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; Kandasamy Kovil Rd)
This photogenic Murugan (Skanda) temple has a very ornate, if faded, gopuram (gateway
tower) and a gold-clad image in its sanctum.
Grand Jummah Mosque MOSQUE
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; Horowapatana Rd)
A grand mosque awash in aqua tiling, with shiny gold onion domes.
Sleeping & Eating
Hotel Nelly Star HOTEL
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; 222 4477; www.nellystarhotel.com ;84 2nd Cross St;r with fan/air con
from Rs 2000/2800, VIP r Rs 3950; )
The Nelly Star has a somewhat bizarre colour scheme and an ungainly appearance, but its
wide choice of rooms offer decent value. We didn't spot any celebs in the 'VIP' options, but
they're extremely spacious, each with two double beds. Eating and drinking choices are
excellent: a poolside cafe for snacks, a formal restaurant (mains Rs 220-600) and a well-
stocked bar.
Hotel Swarkka GUESTHOUSE
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; 222 1090;Soosapillaiyarkulam Rd;s/d/tr with fan Rs 1750/2250/2750,
with air-con Rs 2250/2750/3000; )
If you're really on an economy drive, this dated hotel might suffice for a night. Rooms,
with TV and mossie nets, are spacious but ageing. On the plus side the family owners are
very welcoming and there's a restaurant at the front for meals (Rs 200-400).
Neethan's Hotel SRI LANKAN