The Nilavarai well, which is considered an archaeological monument in the Jaffna Peninsula, is very old. There are legends among Hindus and Buddhists that the well has no bottom. Although it is said that it has no bottom, the explorations carried out by Navy divers and underwater cameras revealed that it has a bottom. It was found at a depth of 52 meters. It has been found that fresh water is present up to a depth of 18 meters and the salt concentration increases as you go down. The wreckage of three cart that had fallen into the well was recovered by Navy divers. It is our responsibility to protect this for future generations.

The Nilavarai well, an esteemed archaeological site in the Jaffna Peninsula, boasts great antiquity. According to Hindu and Buddhist folklore, there's a belief that the well is bottomless. However, contrary to this notion, recent explorations by Navy divers and the use of underwater cameras have confirmed the presence of a bottom at a depth of 52 meters. Research indicates the existence of freshwater up to 18 meters deep, with salt concentration progressively rising with further descent. Navy divers have successfully recovered the remains of three carts that had fallen into the well. Preserving this historical site for the well-being of future generations is a collective responsibility.

A place that has a historical value. Earlier it was believed that it's a bottomless well. However, according to the authorities, they have found out, with the help of Sri Lanka Navy divers and an automated robot, that it's depth is about 52 meters. Also it has consumable water upto about 18 meters depth. After that water is salty, and at the bottom of the well salty level is extremely high. The well has several water tunnels at different levels towards different directions. The Navy has even found debris at the bottom.

People have started calling it as bottomless well since they could not see the end / bottom of this well. But Sri Lanka navy has found the total depth is 52 m. They have done some tests to find more details about it. Still certain things about this well is under research. It takes about 30 mins to reach here from Jaffna town.

Not maintained recently hence cannot bath or have anything to spend time with. Can just view the place and take a few clicks on your way.

A mysterious place. Nobody has found the depth of the well it seems. Some people say that it is connected with the ancient king called Raawana who ruled the Sri Lanka around 4500 years ago. It is a fact that this well has a fresh water at the surface. And it is again believed that it is connected to a series of tunnels in the up country and Sabaragamuwa province.

They may be saying that this well does not have a bottom but spending 20km while on a trip wouldn't do anything because this is just a well for you because you can't see the bottom because its below 150m deep as per the navy sources and they say the keeramalai pond also connected but these all are facts which we cannot see from our eyes and there is nothing to see actually after going 20 or more kilometers. So please visit the places where it matters.

An age old underground well in Jaffna. easily accessible to this location when you visited Jaffna and no need to make any payment, you can visit this place free of charge. I noticed that this place is not crowded but this is another evidence for archaeological place in Jaffna area. There are small shops near to entrance and you can buy some traditional food and sweets from there. Not sure about exact parking location but there is enough space near to the location for vehicle parking safely.

Nilavarai well is the largest fresh water well in Jaffna penisula. If it called as bottomless well people have found bottom. Water is clear. There are army people near the well. -17/12/2022-

A very interesting location with a rich historic background! I was intrigued by the myths & facts associated to it. In case you are visiting you should definitely take a few minutes to read through the info wall which explains the whole story quite well. You could go down to the start of the water level, or could observe from the top if you're too cautious. Either way, this was a wise spontaneous visit!

This place is a must visit in SL. The water in the well looked as a magical blue. The place is well maintained by the Army. The actual depth of the well is still not found. It was Astonishing!

This is identified archeological monument and has many legends among the Buddhists and Hindu devotes.

Interesting place to visit if you go to Jaffna. The bollomless well in fact has a bottom found and the Navy gets the credit for it. Safety is a bit of a question for kids here even though guardians are around.

Bottomless? Fascinating and Unbelievable!! This natural, age-old water well is said to be bottomless because it has water throughout the year never drying up even during a drought. It is an item of archaeological significance in Jaffna. Our guide narrated a legend related to the well - going back to the life of Rama, the famous Indian prince of Ramayana fame. Apparently, his wife Sita, on her way back to India was very thirsty but could not find any water nearby. Rama shot an arrow into the earth creating this well. Coming back to reality, we learnt that during an expedition carried out by the Sri Lanka Navy using an automated robot incorporating a camera, the depth was determined to be 52.5 metres. Though the water in the first 18 metres was fresh, it became saline further below. Apparently, there exist several tunnels at various depths leading away from the well. It is said that one of these tunnels connect to the Keeramalai freshwater springs about 10 km away. The expedition also located two carts and a skeleton at the bottom of the well. These had been subsequently removed. There are steps leading into the well. These were in use until recent times, when bathing and swimming within were permitted - but not anymore - due to danger of drowning. Some pigeons have made homes within some holes in the well-walls. Three tubewells located within close proximity to the bottomless well provide drinking water to three nearby towns. The caretaker from the Water Department was testing the ph value of water whilst I was there. Nilavarai is listed and protected as an Archaeological Reservation by the government.

This looks great with clean blue water, earlier people said this to bottom less well but by SL navy identified that have a natural bottom

Nilavarai, a captivating geological wonder in northern Sri Lanka, is renowned for its mysterious and deep freshwater well known as the "Nilavarai Bottomless Well." Surrounded by lush greenery, this natural marvel captivates visitors with its clear blue waters that seemingly plunge into the abyss. Despite its name, the exact depth of the well remains unknown, adding to its mystique. Surrounded by myths and legends, Nilavarai has become a popular destination for those seeking both natural beauty and a touch of intrigue in their exploration of Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes.

Best place to visit in your jaffna trip .huge well with clear water. Can be bath during kovil festival season.

Nilavarai, a natural underground water well in Sri Lanka, is a mesmerizing geological wonder. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this mysterious sinkhole captivates visitors with its crystal-clear turquoise water. The well, believed to be bottomless, adds an air of intrigue to its allure. Surrounded by ancient myths and local folklore, Nilavarai holds cultural significance in the region. Descending into its depths, one can witness the fascinating interplay of sunlight, creating enchanting reflections on the water's surface. The site provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat. Nilavarai stands as a testament to the natural beauty concealed beneath the earth's surface, inviting exploration and contemplation. This hidden gem seamlessly blends geological marvels with cultural mystique, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for all who venture to discover its secrets.

Bottomless northern well in nilawarai, Lately SL Navy searched about the bottom and discovered bottom with two ancient carts

This well is mystery. It's looks like pound be it isn't. Under the well it going wider and deeper. The reason for the mystery is, if you throw a thing to the well it will appear in keerimalai Jaffna. Quite interesting 🤔

There is an big information boards to the side which explains details about its history and what was done by the navy renovating the attractions.

This is considered by many as a bottomless well for a lot of yeras but now it is found that there is a bottom deep down. A cool place to pay a visit

Bottomless natural underground well is the historic landmark in Nilavarei area. Recommended place to visit and see.

People believe as a bottomless well and connected to some other kovil locations true tunnels

Nilavarai well is located in Nilavarei in Jaffa peninsula. It is one of very famous site in Jaffa.Nilavarai wells also called as "bottom less wells". It is the largest natural fresh water well in Jaffna district. The water is slightly brackish but drinkable. This well is believed to be connected with the Keerimalai ponds located approximately 10 km from here.

This is a place steeped in legend and mystery. As far as things to see, it's just a large well with clear water and fish swimming in it. But take the time to read up on it's history and the stories about it and your experience will be much richer for it.

Not really a bottomless well as it claimed to be. Nothing much to see there.. It is said that this well is connected to Keerimalai pond.

A natural underground water well located in Jaffna district. It’s popular because its water never gets depleted even in the severe droughts. Also known as “bottomless well” which contains slightly brackish water. Critics says its depth is approximately 44 meters.

Entrance road was damaged. Haven't done proper cleanup near the .

Here we are at the underground water well. Have no t found the depth yet. No ticket counter, no wheel chair access and no maintainings. Gift of mother nature.

Worth the visit. Has a wonderful history.

Good place to visit for school children. Geological very important place.

If you are interested in history and archaeology this place is worthy for you. But if you are seeking for fun and adventure this is not such place. There is an interesting history behind this well. There is an information post near the well. It is worth reading. The speciality of this well is that no one has found the depth of the well. As the folks say it's a bottom less well. However in recent years with the help of the navy they were able to find the depth. And another wonder is that the well has salt and fresh water together in the same well. However it is not advisable to go near the pond and wash legs. Because if you slip you can cost your life.

This is also known as the Bottomless well. Go there and see the board which explains more details about this well. Locals use this well to get water for religious purposes and hence it is not allowed to go down the stairs to see close to the water. You can see the well from the observation path at the top.

An ancient place connected to Buddhist and Hindu stories.